Distinct isoforms (COX-1 and COX-2) of cyclooxygenase: possible physiological and therapeutic implications

• Published in: Fundamental & clinical pharmacology Vol. 10; no. 1; p. 1
• Main Authors: Pairet, M, Engelhardt, G
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England 01-01-1996
• Subjects: Animals; Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal - pharmacology; Cyclooxygenase 1; Cyclooxygenase 2; Cyclooxygenase 2 Inhibitors; Cyclooxygenase Inhibitors - pharmacology; Humans; Isoenzymes - physiology; Membrane Proteins; Prostaglandin-Endoperoxide Synthases - physiology
• ISSN: 0767-3981
• DOI: 10.1111/j.1472-8206.1996.tb00144.x

The discovery of an inducible isoform of cyclooxygenase (COX-2) requires a refinement of the theory that inhibition of cyclooxygenase activity explains both therapeutic and side effects of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Indeed, new pharmacological results suggest that COX-2 inhibition provides the therapeutic (ie, anti-inflammatory) activity of NSAIDs, whereas inhibition of constitutive COX-1 is responsible for their gastric and renal side effects as well as for their antithrombotic activity. However, a role of COX-1 in inflammation cannot be excluded. Furthermore, the functional relevance of COX-2 expression and induction in various tissues warrants further investigation. These studies should help in predicting potential adverse effects as well as new indications for selective COX-2 inhibitors.