Influence of Cox-2 and Local Cytokine Expressions in Gastric Ulcer Mucosa by H. Pylori and Nsaid

Background/Aims: H pylori and NSAIDs are the two most important pathogenic factors in gastric ulcer. NSAIDs and H pylori share common pathogenic characteristics, but have different effects in modulating COX-2 and local cytokines in gastric ulcer mucosa. This study was designed to explore the influence of COX-2 and local cytokine expressions in gastric ulcer mucosa induced by H. pylori infection and NSAID use. Methodology: Twenty-three patients were recruited . Sixteen subjects were infected with H. pylori. Fifteen patients used NSAIDs. Gastric biopsy specimens were obtained by endoscopy. COX-2 and local cytokine mRNA expressions were assessed by realtime RT-PCR. Results: COX-2 and local cytokines were overexpressed in gastric ulcer and were positively intercorrelated. H. pylori did not alter COX-2 and local cytokine expressions in gastric ulcer , but induced IL-8 and COX-2 in antral mucosa. NSAIDs inhibited COX-2 expression in gastric ulcer, but had no effect on other local cytokines. COX-2 inhibition by NSAIDs in gastric ulcer was compatible with the findings that NSAIDs delayed gastric ulcer healing. Conclusions: H. pylori increased IL-8 and COX-2 in the antral mucosa, but did not influence COX- 2 and local cytokines in gastric ulcer. NSAIDs inhibited COX- 2 in gastric ulcer and delayed gastric ulcer healing