Endocrine Abstracts

Cyclooxygenase (COX), the rate-limiting enzyme in prostaglandin (PG) biosynthesis exists in two isoforms, COX-1 and COX-2. They are encoded by two separate genes, and show cell-type specific expression and regulation. The expression of COX-1 is constitutive, whereas that of COX-2 is inducible by cytokines/growth factors or inflammatory stimuli. Since the processes of ovulation and implantation are considered analogous to 'proinflammatory' responses, and the involvement of PGs ...