Human PTGS2 Knockout Cell Line-HeLa

The PTGS2 gene, also known as prostaglandin endoperoxide synthase 2 or cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), is a key component in the biosynthesis of prostaglandins such as prostaglandins, prostacyclins, and thromboxanes, which are major regulators of inflammatory processes, pain, fever, and other physiological responses. The PTGS2 gene is located on human chromosome 1 and encodes a particularly inducible enzyme that responds dynamically to a variety of stimuli such as proinflammatory cytokines, growth factors, and bacterial endotoxins. Under normal physiological conditions, PTGS2 expression is relatively low. However, in response to inflammatory signals, it is rapidly upregulated, unlike COX-1, which is constitutively expressed in most tissues and involved in maintaining physiological homeostasis. This inducibility makes COX-2 a key player in acute inflammation and pathophysiological states such as arthritis, cancer, and cardiovascular disease. The enzyme produced by PTGS2 converts arachidonic acid into prostaglandin H2, which is a precursor for other prostaglandins. Given its important role in inflammation and pain, PTGS2 has become a prime target for nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and selective COX-2 inhibitors. Traditional NSAIDs inhibit both COX-1 and COX-2, which can result in gastrointestinal side effects due to inhibition of COX-1-mediated protective prostaglandins. In contrast, selective COX-2 inhibitors such as celecoxib are designed to reduce inflammation and pain while minimizing adverse gastrointestinal effects by selectively inhibiting the enzyme encoded by PTGS2.