Cyclooxygenase 1 and 2: Development of Canine InVitro and Whole Blood Assays for Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs

Authors

Nicole L. Hatch, Brigham Young University
Dr. Daniel L. Simmons, Brigham Young University

Keywords

non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, NSAIDS, cyclooxygenase, COX canine in vitro

College

Physical and Mathematical Sciences

Department

Chemistry and Biochemistry

Abstract

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) are the basis for a multi-billion dollar pharmaceutical market. Their target, Cyclooxygenase (COX), might from an economic standpoint be considered the most important enzyme known to man.1 COX is the key enzyme in the transformation of arachidonic acid into prostaglandins, is the target of non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Prostaglandins are very important signaling molecules that are involved in many body functions. From physiological and pathological standpoints the most interesting functions are in arthritis, inflammatory pain, ovulation, and cancer. Two isoforms of COX are known to exist in mammals: COX-1 and COX-2. Although very similar in structure, each enzyme has unique functions. COX-1 prevents gastrointestinal bleeding while COX-2 causes pain and inflammation. Identifying a drug which is more selective for COX-2 than COX- 1 would give a drug without the current life threatening side effects of traditional NSAIDs. Since the second greatest market for NSAIDs is the treatment of osteoarthritis in canines, work was focused on this species.

Recommended Citation

Hatch, Nicole L. and Simmons, Dr. Daniel L. (2013) "Cyclooxygenase 1 and 2: Development of Canine InVitro and Whole Blood Assays for Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs," Journal of Undergraduate Research: Vol. 2013: Iss. 1, Article 2608.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/jur/vol2013/iss1/2608