The peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor -γ (PPARγ) has been identified in a wide range of cancers, including brain, breast, colon, stomach and lung cancers. It belongs to the thyroid/ steroid hormone receptors superfamily. Binding with their special ligands, PPARγ plays important roles in regulating transcription of their target genes. PPARγ activation suppresses the growth of the tumor cells, implicating the anti-tumor potential of PPARγ ligand. Tumors in the nervous system are among the most devastating cancers. This review highlights key advances in understanding the effects of PPARγ ligands in the treatment of tumors in the nervous system.