Is prostaglandin E(2) a pathogenic factor in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis?

OBJECTIVE: To elucidate the role of cyclooxygenase-1 (Cox1) and prostaglandin E(2) in ALS neurodegeneration. METHODS: Mutation in superoxide dismutase-1 is a cause of the fatal paralytic disorder amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Inhibition of cyclooxygenase-2 (Cox-2) in transgenic mice expressing an amyotrophic lateral sclerosis-linked superoxide dismutase-1 mutation led to the idea that prostaglandin E(2), the main synthetic product of Cox-2, is pathogenic in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. RESULTS: Herein, we show by genetic intervention that prostaglandin E(2) in the spinal cord is mainly produced by Cox-1, and that ablation of Cox-1 fails to attenuate neurodegeneration. INTERPRETATION: The previously documented role of Cox-2 in ALS neurodegeneration in this particular mouse model occurs through a mechanism independent of prostaglandin E(2). Furthermore, plans to use selective Cox-1 inhibitors for neuroprotection in ALS are unlikely to be fruitful.