Ventana Medical Systems, Inc. COX-2 (Cyclooxygenase 2) 760-4254

Cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) catalyzes the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandin H2 in the first step in the biosynthesis of prostaglandins, thromboxanes, and prostacyclins. COX-2 inhibition by nonsteroidal antiinflamatory agents has been shown to decrease angiogenesis and tumor growth, and promote apoptosis. COX-2 overexpression has been associated with increased microvascular density. COX-2 overexpression has also been suggested as a poor prognostic indicator in carcinomas of the colon, breast, pancreas, and adenocarcinoma of the lung.