Cyclooxygenase, often abbreviated as COX, is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the body's inflammatory response. It converts arachidonic acid, a fatty acid found in cell membranes, into prostaglandins, which are compounds that help regulate various physiological functions, including pain, fever, and inflammation. There are two main types of cyclooxygenase: COX-1 and COX-2. COX-1 is generally involved in maintaining normal bodily functions, such as protecting the stomach lining and supporting platelet function. In contrast, COX-2 is primarily expressed during inflammation and is targeted by many nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and swelling.