FIGURE 6.
Vicious cycle of neuroinflammation. COX2 enzyme activity and gene expression increase both acutely and chronically after brain injuries. This may establish a vicious cycle that worsens functional recovery via overproduction of prostaglandins and free radicals. COX2 inhibition benefits the injured brain and attenuates the injury-induced rise in COX2 activity (acutely) and gene expression (by 72 h after injury).