COX-2 (Cyclooxygenase-2) ELISA

Cyclooxygenase (COX) Overview

Function and Importance:

• Enzyme Role: Cyclooxygenase (COX) is critical for converting arachidonic acid into Prostaglandin G2 (PGG2), which is then reduced to Prostaglandin H2 (PGH2). This process is fundamental for the synthesis of various prostanoids, including prostaglandins and thromboxanes, which have roles in inflammation, pain, fever, and platelet aggregation.

Isoforms:

• COX-1:
• Expression: Constitutively expressed in most tissues.
• Functions: Involved in maintaining physiological functions such as:
• Vascular hemostasis (e.g., platelet aggregation and blood clotting)
• Renal blood flow
• Glomerular function
• Role: COX-1 generally supports normal cellular functions and homeostasis.
• COX-2:
• Expression: Inducible and upregulated in response to inflammatory stimuli such as growth factors, cytokines, and endotoxins.
• Functions: Plays a pivotal role in:
• The inflammatory response
• Pain
• Fever
• Role: COX-2 is often targeted for its role in inflammation and pain, as its inhibition can reduce symptoms associated with inflammatory conditions.

Clinical Significance:

• COX Inhibitors: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) often target COX-1 and COX-2 to reduce inflammation, pain, and fever. Selective COX-2 inhibitors have been developed to minimize gastrointestinal side effects associated with non-selective COX inhibition.
• Inflammatory Diseases: COX-2 is particularly important in conditions such as arthritis, where its expression is upregulated in inflamed tissues.

Understanding the distinct roles of COX-1 and COX-2 is crucial for developing targeted therapies for managing inflammatory and pain-related conditions while minimizing adverse effects.

This ELISA Kit from Tecan IBL International is for research use only.

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