Prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase (commonly referred to as Cyclooxygenase) (COX)

Prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthases (commonly known as cyclooxygenases, COX) are key enzymes in the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins and thromboxanes, which mediate inflammation, pain, fever, and other physiological processes. There are two main isoforms: COX-1, constitutively expressed and maintaining normal physiological function such as gastric mucosa protection and platelet aggregation, and COX-2, predominantly induced in response to inflammatory stimuli and implicated in pathological conditions including inflammation and cancer. Pharmaceutical inhibition of COX enzymes by NSAIDs and selective COX-2 inhibitors is central in the management of inflammation, pain, and related disorders, though use is associated with notable safety risks such as gastrointestinal injury and cardiovascular events

Other names

CyclooxygenaseProstaglandin G/H synthasePTGSProstaglandin-endoperoxide synthaseProstaglandin synthaseProstaglandin-endoperoxide synthetasePHS

Reversible or irreversible inhibition of cyclooxygenase activity, blocking conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins and thromboxane. (Aspirin acetylates the active site serine, producing irreversible inhibition, NSAIDs act reversibly, COX-2-selective inhibitors target the COX-2 isoenzyme selectively)