Dual COX-2/15-LOX inhibitors: A new avenue in the prevention of cancer

Dual cyclooxygenase 2/15-lipoxygenase inhibitors constitute a valuable alternative to classical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and selective COX-2 (cyclooxygenase-2) inhibitors for the treatment of inflammatory diseases, as well as preventing the cancer. Indeed, these latter present diverse side effects, which are reduced or absent in dual-acting agents. In this review, COX-2 and 15-LOX (15-lipoxygenase) pathways are first described in order to highlight the therapeutic interest of designing such compounds. Various structural families of dual inhibitors are illustrated. This study discloses various structural families of dual 15-LOX/COX-2 inhibitors, thus pave the way to design potentially-active anticancer agents with balanced dual inhibition of these enzymes.

Automated summary

Dual cyclooxygenase 2/15-lipoxygenase inhibitors offer a valuable alternative for the treatment of inflammatory diseases and prevention of cancer, with reduced side effects compared to classical NSAIDs and selective COX-2 inhibitors. This review provides an overview of the COX-2 and 15-LOX pathways and discusses various structural families of dual inhibitors, paving the way for the design of potentially-active anticancer agents with balanced dual inhibition of these enzymes.