Evaluation of the effect of α-L-guluronic acid (G2013) on COX-1, COX-2 activity and gene expression for introducing this drug as a novel NSAID with immunomodulatory property

Background: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are used to treat the pathological pain and inflammation through inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX) enzyme and disruption of the synthesis of prostaglandins (PGs). The alpha-L-guluronic acid (G2013) patented (PCT/EP2017/067920), as a novel NSAID with the immunomodulatory property, has been shown its positive effects in experimental models of multiple sclerosis and anti-aging. Objective: This study was aimed to investigate the effects of G2013 on the gene expression and activity of COX-1/COX-2 enzymes in order to introduce a novel NSAID for the treatment of inflammatory diseases. Method: The mRNA expression levels of COX-1/COX-2 were measured by qRT-PCR. The PGE(2) concentration in culture media was determined using ELISA method. Results: Our results demonstrated that the low and high dose of G2013 could significantly reduce the gene expression of COX-1 and COX-2, as compared to the control treated with LPS (p < 0.05). In addition, data showed that 5, 50 and 500 mMol/ml doses of this drug can significantly the reduce activities of COX-1 and COX-2, as compared to the control treated with LPS and AA (p < 0.0001). Conclusion: This study revealed that G2013, as a novel NSAID with the immunomodulatory property, is able to reduce the gene expression and activity of COX-1/COX-2 enzymes. According to the findings, this agent might be categorized and introduced as a novel NSAID for the treatment of inflammatory diseases.