The Role of Cyclooxygenase-2 in Non-inflammatory Processes

Overview

The only iso-form of cyclooxygenase expressed in thrombocytes is cyclooxygenase-1. In endothelialcells and in smooth muscle cells of the vascular wall both iso-forms are expressed. Selectiveinhibition of cyclooxygenase-2 by coxibs in the vascular system deprives this class of non-steroidantirheumatics of their anti-aggregation effect. At present a discussion is under way on the „prothrombogenicpotential“ of coxibs, which however so far was not unequivocally proved.On the otherhand the antiphlogistic effect of coxibs could have a favourable impact on the „inflammatorycomponent“ in the genesis of atherosclerosis. Further investigations are needed for evaluation ofthese problems.

Key words:
cyclooxygenase-1, cyclooxygenase-2, prothrombogenic potential, cardiovascularrisk, cardiovascular safety