Description
Phytanic acid is a fatty acid metabolite of chlorophyll that acts as a ligand of retinoid X receptors (RXRs) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) and is known to regulate glucose metabolism. Phytanic acid also plays a role in disorders of peroxisomal metabolism such as Refsum disease. This compound induces apoptosis by uncoupling oxidative phosphorylation, stimulating ROS generation, and activating the free fatty acid receptor GPR40 to alter intracellular Ca2+ levels.