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Nitric oxide mediated effect of cyclo-oxygenase inhibitors
M Mahmood1, H S Zuberi, M K Ashfaq
1Department of Biochemistry, Aga Khan University, Karachi.
Objectives:
Non-Steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) have long been used as anti-inflammatory agents, yet their mode of action is not entirely clear. The inhibitory effects of NSAIDS on prostaglandin production can only partly explain their anti-inflammatory actions. This study was aimed at defining the role of cycl-oxygenase (COX) inhibitors on nitric oxide (NO) production in murine macrophages in vitro.
Methods:
Murine macrophages were obtained from the peritoneum and after exposure, in vitro to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) produced nitrite, measured after 24 hours by Griess reaction. The macrophages were pre-incubated with aspirin or indomethacin before activation with LPS.
Results:
Treatment with aspirin resulted in an increase in nitric oxide production. A similar response was obtained with indomethacin treatment.
Conclusion:
This study shows that COX inhibitors significantly increase NO production in murine macrophages in vitro and this may be one of the mechanisms by which they exert their anti-inflammatory effects.