Description
Cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) is a bifunctional enzyme that exhibits both COX and peroxidase activities and catalyzes the first step in the biosynthesis of prostaglandins, thromboxanes, and prostacyclins.1,2 The COX component converts arachidonic acid to the hydroperoxy endoperoxide prostaglandin G2 (PGG2; Item No. 17010), and the peroxidase component reduces the endoperoxide to the corresponding alcohol PGH2 (Item No. 17020). COX-2 expression is induced by a variety of stimuli, including phorbol esters, LPS, and cytokines and is responsible for the biosynthesis of PGs under acute inflammatory conditions.3 Thus, COX-2 has been the focus of attention for the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) development. Cayman's COX-2 (human, recombinant) contains an N-terminal hexahistidine tag and an alanine substituted for asparagine at position 580 (COX-2N580A) that prevents glycosylation at position 580 and decreases enzyme degradation in cells.4WARNING This product is not for human or veterinary use.
Biochem/physiol Actions
COX-2 catalyzes the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandin H2 (the first step in the biosynthesis of prostaglandins, thromboxanes, and prostacyclins). It is the inducible form of cyclooxygenase, induced by phorbol esters, lipopolysaccharides, and cytokines. COX-2 is upregulated in the neovasculature of malignant tumors. Inhibition of COX-2 with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is associated with decreased tumor growth.
