Overexpression of Functionally Coupled Cyclooxygenase-2 and Prostaglandin E Synthase in Symptomatic Atherosclerotic Plaques as a Basis of Prostaglandin E ₂ -Dependent Plaque Instability

Abstract

This study demonstrates the colocalization of COX-2 and PGES in symptomatic lesions and provides evidence that synthesis of COX-2 and PGES by activated macrophages is associated with acute ischemic syndromes, possibly through metalloproteinase-induced plaque rupture.