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COX-2 expression in striated muscle under physiological conditions
J Sudbø1, A Reith, V A Flørenes
1Department of Medical Oncology, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Montebello, Oslo, Norway. jon.sudbo@rh.uio.no
Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) is newly found in healthy striated muscle, suggesting a physiological role. This discovery explains previously unknown prostanoid synthesis locations in muscle tissue.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Physiology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- The role of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) in disease is well-documented.
- Limited information exists regarding the physiological functions and expression patterns of COX-2 under normal conditions.
- Previous research indicated COX-2 dependent prostanoid production but did not pinpoint the source.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the expression of COX-2 in human striated muscle under physiological conditions.
- To identify the localization of COX-2 expression to enhance understanding of its physiological role.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of tissue specimens from 30 healthy individuals undergoing dental implant surgery.
- Examination of muscle tissue from three patients undergoing sarcoma treatment.
- Utilized immunohistochemistry and Western blotting to detect COX-2 protein presence.
Main Results:
- COX-2 protein was expressed in striated muscle in 83% (25/30) of healthy subjects.
- Immunohistochemistry results were confirmed by Western blotting in all positive cases.
- No inflammation was observed in the submucosal tissue adjacent to COX-2 expressing muscle.
Conclusions:
- This study presents the novel finding of COX-2 expression in human striated muscle under physiological conditions.
- COX-2 activity within striated muscle offers a potential explanation for the previously unidentified sites of prostanoid synthesis in the body.
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