1. Enzymes that catalyze the production of prostaglandins and thromboxanes from arachidonic acid; important targets for anti-inflammatory and pain-relief medications.
Usage: technical; biochemistry; plural form of cyclooxygenase; commonly abbreviated as COX

Examples

• Cyclooxygenases are responsible for converting arachidonic acid into prostaglandins in the body.
• NSAIDs like ibuprofen work by inhibiting cyclooxygenases to reduce inflammation.
• There are two main types of cyclooxygenases: COX-1 and COX-2.
• Researchers study cyclooxygenases to develop more selective pain medications.
• The inhibition of cyclooxygenases decreases the production of inflammatory mediators.