Suppressive effects of the kahweol and cafestol on cyclooxygenase‐2 expression in macrophages

Abstract
Inducible cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) has been suggested to play a role in the processes of inflammation and carcinogenesis. Recent studies have shown the chemoprotective effects of kahweol and cafestol, which are coffee‐specific diterpenes. This study investigated the effects of kahweol and cafestol on the expression of COX‐2 in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐activated RAW 264.7 macrophages. Kahweol and cafestol significantly suppressed the LPS‐induced production of prostaglandin E2, COX‐2 protein and mRNA expression, and COX‐2 promoter activity in a dose‐dependent manner. Furthermore, kahweol blocked the LPS‐induced activation of NF‐κB by preventing IκB degradation and inhibiting IκB kinase activity. These results will provide new insights into the anti‐inflammatory and anti‐carcinogenic properties of kahweol and cafestol.