Cyclooxygenase

This is an enzyme (EC 1.14.99.1) that can act as cyclooxygenase and peroxidase. Two O₂ molecules are involved in the synthesis. Biologically active intermediates – prostaglandin endoperoxides are formed at the beginning of the cyclooxygenase pathway. The final products of prostaglandin biosynthesis differ in different tissues and cells. Fatty acid cyclooxygenase is part of the enzymatic complex prostaglandin synthase. The enzyme cyclooxygenase has a specific catalytic activity. It catalyzes its own destruction. Therefore, prostaglandins are not constantly formed in the body. Thromboxanes are formed from secondary prostaglandins during cyclooxygenase synthesis.

Source | Glossary of Most Commonly Used Biomedical Terms and Concepts | Lithuanian University of Health Sciences | Academician Professor Antanas Praškevičius, Professor Laima Ivanovienė