Potentiation of COX-2 Induction by C2-ceramide, a Potential Cell Death Marker

Ceramide, a potential cell death marker formed by sphingomyelinase, is involved in the expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). This study examines the effect of C2-ceramide (C2), a cell-permeable ceramide analog, on the LPS-inducible COX-2 expression and signaling pathways. C2 did not induce COX-2, but potentiated LPS-inducible COX-2 expression in Raw264.7 cells, whereas dihydro-C2 was inactive.(omitted)