Abstract: Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPAR γ) is a nuclear receptor of ligand-dependent transcription factor involved in diverse biological processes including adipocyte differentiation, glucose homeostasis, and immune response. In recent years, a growing number of studies have highlighted the essential role of PPAR γ in the mammalian placenta. This article reviews the recent progress in the research of PPAR γ in the development of placenta, pathological pregnancy and the toxic effects of environmental pollutants on the placenta through PPAR γ, in order to improve the awareness of PPAR γ in the placenta and illuminate the significance of PPAR γ in pregnancy.