noun.
Any of several enzymes that catalyze the conversion of arachidonic acid into prostaglandins; their inhibition is the mode of action of aspirin and ibuprofen.
WordNet 3.0 Copyright 2006 by Princeton University. All rights reserved.
noun.
either of two related enzymes that control the production of prostaglandins and are blocked by aspirin
Word Usage
"The researchers focused on an enzyme known as cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), which is involved in a variety of physiologic functions, from regulating blood pressure to controlling inflammation and contracting muscles."