Zhao L, Fang J, Zhou M, et al. - Given that increased susceptibility of ischemic stroke may be seen in relation to mutations of cyclooxygenase gene (COX gene), researchers explored five variants (rs5788, rs1330344, rs3842788, rs20417, and rs689466) of two COX genes, with the purpose of explaining the link between these polymorphisms. They also focused on the link between these variants and ischemic stroke risk in order to know if gene–gene interaction between these genes raises the susceptibility of ischemic stroke or its subtypes. For this study, overall 1,078 cases and 903 controls were recruited. A decreased susceptibility of ischemic stroke may be seen in relation to the presence of AA genotype, at rs1330344. An increase in ischemic stroke susceptibility may be caused by AA genotype, at rs3842788. Increased susceptibility of large-artery atherosclerosis may be observed in relation to AA genotype, at rs689466. Findings revealed the interaction of COX − 1(rs1330344, rs3842788) and COX-2 rs689466 in small vessel occlusion, but these exerted no additive influence with ischemic stroke and other subtypes.