Cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase enzyme (COX and LOX)

Cyclooxygenases and lipoxygenases are critical enzymes in the metabolism of polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly arachidonic acid, to generate eicosanoids such as prostaglandins, thromboxanes, leukotrienes, and lipoxins[3][4][10]. Cyclooxygenase isoforms (COX-1 and COX-2) mediate the synthesis of prostanoids, which regulate processes such as inflammation, vascular homeostasis, and platelet function[10]. Lipoxygenases, with multiple isoforms (5-LOX, 12-LOX, 15-LOX, etc.), catalyze the formation of leukotrienes and other lipid mediators that modulate immune responses, inflammation resolution, and apoptosis[7][10]. Both enzyme families are key therapeutic targets for anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and cardiovascular therapies, and dual inhibition approaches are under investigation to improve efficacy and reduce side effects[3][4][5][9][10]. However, given the widely varied roles and isoforms, each should be specified carefully in research and clinical contexts.

Other names

Cyclooxygenase (COX)Lipoxygenase (LOX)COX-1 (Prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 1)COX-2 (Prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2)5-LOX (ALOX5)12-LOX (ALOX12)15-LOX (ALOX15, ALOX15B)

Inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis (COX inhibition) Inhibition of leukotriene synthesis (LOX inhibition) Dual COX/5-LOX inhibition reduces both prostaglandin and leukotriene production, helps reduce cardiovascular and gastrointestinal side effects