cyklooxygenázu

Cyklooxygenázu, often abbreviated as COX, is a crucial enzyme in the human body. It plays a vital role in the synthesis of prostaglandins, which are lipid compounds that act as signaling molecules. There are two main isoforms of cyclooxygenase: COX-1 and COX-2. COX-1 is constitutively expressed in most tissues and is 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 at sites of inflammation by cytokines and other inflammatory mediators. This isoform is primarily responsible for producing prostaglandins that contribute to pain, fever, and inflammation. The action of cyclooxygenase is a key step in the arachidonic acid cascade, a pathway that generates various eicosanoids. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin and ibuprofen, exert their therapeutic effects by inhibiting the activity of cyclooxygenase, thereby reducing prostaglandin production. While both COX-1 and COX-2 are targeted by most traditional NSAIDs, newer drugs have been developed to selectively inhibit COX-2, aiming to reduce gastrointestinal side effects associated with COX-1 inhibition. Understanding the differential roles and regulation of COX-1 and COX-2 is essential for developing effective anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving therapies.