Dictionary of Cancer Terms
View in Spanish: COX-2
COX-2
An enzyme that speeds up the formation of substances that cause inflammation and pain. It may also cause tumor cells to grow. Some tumors have high levels of COX-2 and blocking its activity may reduce tumor growth. Also called cyclooxygenase-2 and prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2.
Source: National Cancer Institute Dictionary of Cancer Terms, available at www.cancer.gov/dictionary.