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Role of cyclooxygenase-2 in the angiogenesis of colorectal cancer

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Abstract

Background

Cyclooxygenase (COX) is the rate-limiting enzyme in the synthesis of prostaglandins. It exists in two isoforms: COX-1 which is constitutively expressed and COX-2 which is an inducible form activated by a variety of cytokines during inflammation.

Discussion

Interest in this enzyme arose in the early 1990s when, following epidemiological studies, aspirin (which is a COX inhibitor) was found to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. Since then various studies to decipher the mechanisms by which COX reduces the development of colorectal cancer have been undertaken. One of the mechanisms being studied is its role in the angiogenesis of colorectal cancer. Angiogenesis of its own has been well established as a key factor in the development of tumours. Agents that specifically inhibit COX-2 are now in clinical development and have been licensed to be used in patients with familial adenomatosis polyposis.

Conclusion

What needs to be determined is whether the antiangiogenic effects of COX-2 inhibitors can be used in the prevention and/or treatment of colorectal cancer and its metastases.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. University Department of Surgery, Royal Free and University College Medical School, Royal Free Hospital, University College London, Pond Street, London, NW3 2QG, UK

    Milind Rao, Wenxuan Yang, Alexander M. Seifalian & Marc C. Winslet

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  1. Milind Rao
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  2. Wenxuan Yang
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  3. Alexander M. Seifalian
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Correspondence to Alexander M. Seifalian.

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Rao, M., Yang, W., Seifalian, A.M. et al. Role of cyclooxygenase-2 in the angiogenesis of colorectal cancer. Int J Colorectal Dis 19, 1–11 (2004). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00384-003-0511-2

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