Tsüklooksügenaas

Tsüklooksügenaas is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the biosynthesis of prostaglandins, which are lipid compounds with hormone-like effects in the body. Specifically, tsüklooksügenaas catalyzes the conversion of arachidonic acid into prostaglandin G2 (PGG2). This is a key step in the cyclooxygenase pathway, a major route for prostaglandin production. The enzyme exists in several isoforms, with different tissue distributions and functions. For instance, COX-1 is constitutively expressed and involved in maintaining normal physiological 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 and is responsible for producing prostaglandins that mediate inflammation, pain, and fever. Understanding the activity and regulation of tsüklooksügenaas is important in pharmacology, as many nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin and ibuprofen work by inhibiting the activity of these enzymes, thereby reducing prostaglandin synthesis and alleviating inflammatory symptoms. However, inhibition of COX-1 can lead to side effects such as gastrointestinal issues.