Amarin Corp Plc (AMRN)

[jessellivermore]

" Can you explain this more in depth with the aspirin and the COX 1 and COX2 receptors regarding EPA benefit?"

COX1 and COX2 (as well as LOX) are cell membrane receptors found on all body cells except for red cells. These receptors are also found on platelets..

These receptors act with with EPA, Arachidonic Acid (AA) and DGLA to a lesser extent...

COX stands for CycloOxygenase...These receptors convert either EPA or AA into an active form of "signaling molecule" of which there are several types grouped together called "prostanoids"..Since these receptors are found on virtually every cell of the body, the type of prostanoid released is dependent on the cell type and whether or not the receptor is acting on EPA or AA..

The action of the prostanoids is local, they are not transported nor are they stored. They are heavily involved in inflammation and immunity as well as pregnancy, neural transmission, smooth muscle function, arterial blood flow and airway resistance..

As far as inflammation is concerned when COX1 or COX2 interact with AA the results are pro inflammatory..They activate inflammatory cells,increase vascular permeability, increase platelet adhesiveness..etc. When EPA interacts with the COX receptors it tends to lessen inflammation and also increases Cyclic AMP which tends to improve glandular function and promote well being. AA and EPA compete for the COX receptors. The more EPA to AA the less inflammation..

Aspirin also interacts with the COX1 and COX2 receptors..The action of aspirin is to destroy the COX receptor..(more can be produced by the cell later)..This prevents the action of both AA and EPA...This might be a good thing if you have a viral infection and simply want to get rid of the inflammation..But in normal circumstances you want to keep your EPA levels up high enough that they limit the AA effect and you get the positive effects of EPA...

":>) JL