Nature reviews. Cancer
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Nature reviews. Cancer · Oct 2001
ReviewColorectal cancer prevention and treatment by inhibition of cyclooxygenase-2.
Population-based studies have established that long-term intake of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), compounds that inhibit the enzymatic activity of cyclooxygenase (COX), reduces the relative risk for developing colorectal cancer. These studies led to the identification of a molecular target, COX-2, that is involved in tumour promotion during colorectal cancer progression. Recent studies in humans indicate that therapy with specific COX-2 inhibitors might be an effective approach to colorectal cancer prevention and treatment.