What is the Origin of COX-2 Enzyme?

The term originated in biochemistry and pharmacology with the discovery of two distinct cyclooxygenase isoforms in the early 1990s, clarifying the mechanism of action for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The 'COX' acronym stands for cyclooxygenase, and the '-2' denotes the specific inducible isoform. This discovery led to the development of selective inhibitors aimed at reducing inflammation with fewer gastrointestinal side effects.

What is the Mechanism of COX-2 Enzyme?

The mechanism of action begins with inflammatory signals activating transcription factors like NF-κB, which promotes the gene expression of the COX-2 enzyme within cells. Once expressed, COX-2 oxygenates arachidonic acid, initiating the synthesis of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins, which then act locally to amplify inflammation and pain signaling. Clinical strategies in hormonal health often focus on modulating COX-2 activity through diet or targeted compounds to manage systemic inflammation, a known driver of endocrine disruption.

COX-2 Enzyme ∞ Area

COX-2 Enzyme

Meaning

COX-2 Enzyme, or Cyclooxygenase-2, is an inducible enzyme that plays a critical role in the inflammatory cascade by catalyzing the conversion of arachidonic acid into prostaglandins. Unlike its constitutive counterpart, COX-1, the COX-2 isoform is generally expressed at low levels but becomes rapidly and dramatically upregulated in response to inflammatory stimuli like cytokines and growth factors. This enzyme is a key mediator of pain, fever, and the chronic inflammation often implicated in age-related hormonal decline and disease.