COX-2 (RBT-COX2), RMab

Summary and Explanation

Collagen is the main protein of connective tissue in animals and the most abundant protein in mammals, Cyclooxygenase (COX) is an enzyme that is responsible for formation of important biological mediators called prostanoids (including prostaglandins, prostacyclin and thromboxane). Pharmacological inhibition of COX can provide relief from the symptoms of inflammation and pain; this is the method of action of well-known drugs such as aspirin and ibuprofen. COX-2 inhibition by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents has been shown to decrease angiogenesis and tumor growth and promote apoptosis.

COX-2 antibody overexpression has been associated with increased microvascular density, and VEGF protein expression in head and neck Squamous-cell Carcinomas and is a poor prognostic indicator in this entity as well. COX-2 overexpression has also been suggested as a poor prognostic indicator in Carcinomas of the colon, breast, pancreas, and Adenocarcinomas of the lung.