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.
