Syklooksigenaasit

Syklooksigenaasit, often abbreviated as COX, are a family of enzymes that play a crucial role in the synthesis of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are lipid compounds that act as signaling molecules in various physiological processes. There are two main isoforms, COX-1 and COX-2. COX-1 is constitutively expressed, meaning it is present in most tissues under normal conditions, and is involved in maintaining essential bodily functions such as protecting the stomach lining and regulating platelet aggregation. COX-2, on the other hand, is typically induced in response to inflammatory stimuli, such as injury or infection, and is therefore primarily associated with inflammation, pain, and fever. The inhibition of COX enzymes, particularly COX-2, is the mechanism of action for many nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen. While NSAIDs targeting both COX-1 and COX-2 provide pain relief and reduce inflammation, they can also lead to side effects, especially gastrointestinal issues due to the inhibition of COX-1's protective functions. Selective COX-2 inhibitors were developed to reduce these gastrointestinal side effects, but have been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events in some cases. Research continues to explore the precise roles of COX enzymes and their isoforms in health and disease.