Endometrial hyperplasia-related inflammation: its role in the development and progression of endometrial hyperplasia

Reproductive tract microbiome dysbiosis associated with gynecological diseases

Female health and the microbiota of the reproductive tract are closely associated. The research scope on reproductive tract microbiota extends from the vaginal to the upper reproductive tract and from infectious diseases to various benign and malignant gynecological and obstetrical diseases. The primary focus of this paper was to evaluate the most recent findings about the role of reproductive tract microbiota in gynecological diseases, including endometrial polyps, uterine fibroids, endometriosis, adenomyosis, endometrial hyperplasia, and endometrial carcinoma. Different stages of gynecological diseases have diverse microbiota in the female reproductive tract, and some specific bacteria may help the disease progress. For example, Fusobacterium may exacerbate endometriosis, while treatments that target microbiota, such as antibiotics, probiotics, and flora transplantation, showed some efficacy in the experiment. These findings indicate the wonderful prospect of this field. Additionally, we have discussed how microbiome research can improve our understanding of the interactions between reproductive tract microorganisms and hosts, aid in the screening and diagnosis of gynecological diseases, and direct the development of preventive and therapeutic strategies aimed at maintaining and restoring a healthy reproductive tract microbiota when combined with other technologies like transcriptome and proteome, in vitro cultured cells, and animal models.

Uterine Microbiota and Bisphenols: Novel Influencers in Reproductive Health

Infertility affects 8-12% of couples worldwide, and 30-75% of preclinical pregnancy losses are due to a failure during the implantation process. Exposure to endocrine disruptors, like bisphenols, among others, has been associated with the increase in infertility observed in the past decades. An increase in infertility has correlated with exposure to endocrine disruptors like bisphenols. The uterus harbors its own microbiota, and changes in this microbiota have been linked to several gynecological conditions, including reproductive failure. There are no studies on the effects of bisphenols on the uterine-microbiota composition, but some inferences can be gleaned by looking at the gut. Bisphenols can alter the gut microbiota, and the molecular mechanism by which gut microbiota regulates intestinal permeability involves Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and tight junction (TJ) proteins. TJs participate in embryo implantation in the uterus, but bisphenol exposure disrupts the expression and localization of TJ proteins. The aim of this review is to summarize the current knowledge on the microbiota of the female reproductive tract (FRT), its association with different reproductive diseases-particularly reproductive failure-the effects of bisphenols on microbiota composition and reproductive health, and the molecular mechanisms regulating uterine-microbiota interactions crucial for embryo implantation. This review also highlights existing knowledge gaps and outlines research needs for future risk assessments regarding the effects of bisphenols on reproduction.

SHP2-Triggered Endothelial Cell Activation Fuels Estradiol-Independent Endometrial Sterile Inflammation

Sterile inflammation occurs in various chronic diseases due to many nonmicrobe factors. Examples include endometrial hyperplasia (EH), endometriosis, endometrial cancer, and breast cancer, which are all sterile inflammation diseases induced by estrogen imbalances. However, how estrogen-induced sterile inflammation regulates EH remains unclear. Here, a single-cell RNA-Seq is used to show that SHP2 upregulation in endometrial endothelial cells promotes their inflammatory activation and subsequent transendothelial macrophage migration. Independent of the initial estrogen stimulation, IL1β and TNFα from macrophages then create a feedforward loop that enhances endothelial cell activation and IGF1 secretion. This endothelial cell-macrophage interaction sustains sterile endometrial inflammation and facilitates epithelial cell proliferation, even after estradiol withdrawal. The bulk RNA-Seq results and phosphoproteomic analysis show that endothelial SHP2 mechanistically enhances RIPK1 activity by dephosphorylating RIPK1Tyr380. This event activates downstream activator protein 1 (AP-1) and instigates the inflammation response. Furthermore, targeting SHP2 using SHP099 (an allosteric inhibitor) or endothelial-specific SHP2 deletion alleviates endothelial cell activation, macrophage infiltration, and EH progression in mice. Collectively, the findings demonstrate that SHP2 mediates the transition of endothelial activation from estradiol-driven acute inflammation to macrophage-amplified chronic inflammation. Targeting sterile inflammation mediated by endothelial cell activation is a promising strategy for nonhormonal intervention in estrogen-related diseases.

Efficacy of drugs treatment in patients with endometrial hyperplasia with or without atypia: A systematic review and network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Endometrial hyperplasia (EH) is a hyperplastic endometrial lesion with irregular gland size, increased glands, and increased glandular interstitial ratio. During follow-up, some EH progressed further to endometrial cancer. It is crucial to provide timely treatment for EH and improve the overall prognosis of EH patients.

METHODS

We searched the PubMed, ClinicalTrials.gov., and Embase databases for studies published from their inception to March 31, 2023. The methodological quality of each study was evaluated in accordance with the Cochrane Collaboration's tool for assessing the risk of bias. The RevMan5.3 software provided by the Cochrane Collaboration was used for direct meta-analysis statistical analysis; and the relative risk and 95% confidence interval along with the mean difference and 95% confidence interval, were used as evaluation indexes.

RESULTS

We included 21 randomized controlled trials involving a total of 2276 women with EH, 6 studies were of high quality, and 15 were of moderate quality. The blinding of subjects and intervention providers was identified as the main source of potential bias. Six interventions were addressed in the network meta-analysis: medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA), plus metformin, norethisterone (NET), levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUD), megestrol acetate, and other drugs. In the direct meta-analysis, we found the probability of endometrial complete regression (CR) in the LNG-IUD group to be significantly higher than those in the NET. In the network meta-analysis, we found the probability of CR in the NET group to be significantly lower than those in the MPA and plus metformin groups, the probability of CR in the LNG-IUD group to be significantly higher than those in the NET, the probability of CR in the other drugs group to be significantly higher than those in the LNG-IUD. The NET group had the lowest incidences of endometrial complete regression, plus metformin could have a better outcome.

CONCLUSION

According to the 21 randomized controlled trials included in this study, MPA is the most effective for EH endometrial outcome when applied as a single agent, while the combination of metformin can achieve a more significant effect.

The role and challenges of regulating endometrial microbiome in uterine health and diseases

The uterine environment provides necessary conditions for the existence of endometrial microbiota, which in turn plays an important role in maintaining the homeostasis of the uterine environment. The endometrial microbiome is highly susceptible to external factors such as age, hormones, menstrual, pregnancy, etc. When the microbiota is imbalanced, it will further promote the occurrence of uterine diseases such as endometritis and endometrial cancer. Regulating the microbiome of the endometrium is of positive significance for promoting uterine health. Among them, antibiotics, probiotics, prebiotics, and microbial transplantation may be important pathways for regulating endometrial microbiota in the future. However, there is currently no unified plan for evaluating the endometrial microbiota. In addition, due to the small sample size, it is easy to be contaminated by exogenous bacterial DNA, which poses great challenges for studying the mechanism of microbial community regulating uterine health. Therefore, there are still many areas worth exploring for the future of endometrial microbiome.

Effects of melatonin on disease improvement and serum levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in patients with non-atypical endometrial hyperplasia

BACKGROUND

Endometrial hyperplasia (EH), an abnormal proliferation of the endometrial cells, is considered as one of the most common causes of abnormal uterine bleeding. Previous studies have reported that melatonin plays a fundamental role in disease treatment. This study aimed the comparison of the effects of progesterone, as the most common therapeutic approach, and melatonin with progesterone alone in improvement of non-atypical endometrial hyperplasia (NEH) and changes in pro-inflammatory cytokine levels.

METHODS

Study population consisted of 40 patients with NEH. Patients were divided into two groups, including 20 subjects treated with melatonin and progesterone and 20 individuals treated with progesterone alone. The blood and endometrial sampling was performed from participants before and after a three-month treatment. The histological examination was microscopically done. The serum levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) were measured using ELISA.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in the diabetes status and mean age between patients treated with progesterone and melatonin and those treated with progesterone alone. The improvement rate in the EH was significantly higher in individuals treated with progesterone and melatonin than those treated with progesterone alone (p < 0.05). Additionally, the patients treated with progesterone and melatonin showed significant increases inIFN-γ and TNF-αlevels compared to the control group (p < 0.001-P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Melatonin supplementation has a beneficial effect in the treatment of EH due perhaps to enhance the level of IFN-γ and TNF-α.

The role and participation of immune cells in the endometrial tumor microenvironment

The tumor microenvironment is surrounded by blood vessels and consists of malignant, non-malignant, and immune cells, as well as signalling molecules, which primarily affect the therapeutic response and curative effects of drugs in clinical studies. Tumor-infiltrating immune cells participate in tumor progression, impact anticancer therapy, and eventually lead to the development of immune tolerance. Immunotherapy is evolving as a promising therapeutic intervention to stimulate and activate the immune system to suppress cancer cell growth. Endometrial cancer (EC) is an immunogenic disease, and in recent years, immunotherapy has shown benefit in the treatment of recurrent and advanced EC. This review discusses the key molecular pathways associated with the intra-tumoral immune response and the involvement of circulatory signalling molecules. Specific immunologic signatures in EC which offer targets for immunomodulating agents, are also discussed. We have summarized the available literature in support of using immunotherapy in EC. Lastly, we have also discussed ongoing clinical trials that may offer additional promising immunotherapy options in the future. The manuscript also explored innovative approaches for screening and identifying effective drugs, and to reduce the financial burdens for the development of personalized treatment strategies. Collectively, we aim to provide a comprehensive review of the role of immune cells and the tumor microenvironment in the development, progression, and treatment of EC.

Protective effect of eicosapentaenoic acid against estradiol valerate-induced endometrial hyperplasia via modulation of NF-κB/HIF-1α/VEGF signaling pathway in rats

BACKGROUND

Early diagnosis and treatment of endometrial hyperplasia (EH) remains mandatory for endometrial cancer (EC) prevention.

OBJECTIVE

To study the possible protective effect of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) in EH - induced by estradiol valerate (EV) in rats.

METHODS/MATERIALS

Adult female Wistar rats were given EV with or without EPA for 10 days. The uterine changes were evaluated by both physical (weight index) and histopathological methods. The markers of oxidative stress (Uterine malondialdehyde (MDA) and serum total antioxidant capacity (TAC) as well as serum estradiol and progesterone levels, and apoptosis (uterine caspase-3) were determined. Immunohistochemical estimations of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in addition to hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF-1α) immunoblotting were measured in uterine tissue.

KEY FINDINGS

EV showed significant increase in uterine weight index that is accompanied with histopatholigical evidences of EH. Such changes were associated with significant alterations in oxidative stress markers, modulation of estradiol and progesterone serum levels, an increase in HIF-1α, NF-κB and VEGF immuno-expressions and a significant decrease in caspase-3. EPA, in either dose, showed significant amelioration in uterine weight index as well as in histopathological changes. Such effect was accompanied with significant improvement in the measured hormonal levels, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and inflammatory parameters.

CONCLUSIONS

EPA in the used doses provided biochemical and histopathological improvement in EV-induced EH via modulation of NF-κB/HIF-1α/VEGF signaling pathway.

Predictive value of hemogram parameters in malignant transformation of the endometrium in patients with different risk factors

OBJECTIVES

To investigate whether the pretreatment hemogram parameters and their ratios can be used in predicting the endometrial transformation in patients with abnormal uterine bleeding.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Records of all patients who underwent an endometrial histopathological evaluation between 2011 and 2021 were investigated. Hemogram, neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR) were analyzed. Chi square and Mann Whitney U tests were used for analysis. P<0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

427 patients were included, of whom 117 were presented with endometrial hyperplasia without atypia (27.4%; mean age, 42±9.7; Group II), 70 with atypia (16.3%; mean age, 53.4±9; Group III), 102 with early endometrial cancer (EC) (23.8%; mean age, 63±7.8; Group IV) and 38 with advanced disease (8.8%; mean age, 63.3±10.5; Group V). Patients without pathology constituted the control group (23.4%; mean age, 42.2±9.5; Group I). Risk factors for atypia and carcinoma were determined as age, postmenopausal state, obesity, diabetes, and increased estrogen exposure (each, p<0.05). There was no significant difference in NLR and PLR (p>0.05). However, hemoglobin and hematocrit levels were higher in Groups IV and V (13.9 vs 13.1 mg/dL, and 39.1 vs 38.8%, respectively; p<0.01). Platelet value was significantly higher in Groups III to V (282x109/L, 283x109/L and 295x109/L; p<0.05, p<0.05 and p<0.01, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings support the impact of inflammation on malign transformation from normal endometrial mucosa to atypia and carcinoma. NLR and PLR values showed no statistical difference. Instead, thrombocytosis may have a predictive role in EC.

“Iron triangle” of regulating the uterine microecology: Endometrial microbiota, immunity and endometrium

The uterus is the core place for breeding new life. The balance and imbalance of uterine microecology can directly affect or even dominate the female reproductive health. Emerging data demonstrate that endometrial microbiota, endometrium and immunity play an irreplaceable role in regulating uterine microecology, forming a dynamic iron triangle relationship. Up to nowadays, it remains unclear how the three factors affect and interact with each other, which is also a frontier topic in the emerging field of reproductive tract microecology. From this new perspective, we aim to clarify the relationship and mechanism of the interaction of these three factors, especially their pairwise interactions. Finally, the limitations and future perspectives of the current studies are summarized. In general, these three factors have a dynamic relationship of mutual dependence, promotion and restriction under the physiological or pathological conditions of uterus, among which the regulatory mechanism of microbiota and immunity plays a role of bridge. These findings can provide new insights and measures for the regulation of uterine microecology, the prevention and treatment of endometrial diseases, and the further multi-disciplinary integration between microbiology, immunology and reproductive medicine.

Chrysin attenuates estradiol-induced endometrial hyperplasia in rats via enhancing PPARα activity

Endometrial hyperplasia (EH) is a complex condition that commonly affects women after menopause. Since the current available treatments for EH are mainly invasive, there is a need for developing new treatment modalities. Chrysin (Ch) is a dihydroxyflavone with numerous promising therapeutic potentials. In this study, Ch's protective effects on estradiol (E2)-induced EH were studied in rats. Animals were allocated randomly to five groups and were treated for 4 weeks as follows: Group 1, control: received the vehicle; group 2, Ch: received Ch 25 mg/kg; group 3, estradiol (E2): received E2 (3 mg/kg) 3 × weekly subcutaneously and the vehicle. Group 4, E2 + Ch 10 mg/kg and group 5, E2 + Ch 25 mg/kg: Ch was given once daily at 10 mg/kg or 25 mg/kg, respectively. In addition, E2 was administered 3 × weekly (3 mg/kg) in groups 4 and 5. Ch inhibited the E2-induced increase in uterine weights and histopathological changes. Ch lowered the cyclin D1 expression. Ch raised the caspase-3 content and Bax mRNA expression. Furthermore, it corrected the raised Bcl2 mRNA expression due to E2. Ch inhibited MDA accumulation and GSH depletion. It also prevents E2-induced SOD and GPx exhaustion. It also ameliorated the rise in NFκB, TNF-α, and IL-6 expression. These effects were correlated with an enhanced PPARα activity ratio relative to the E2 group. This suggests that Ch attenuates EH in this model by exerting anti-proliferative, anti-oxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects partially through increasing PPARα activity.

Piceatannol SNEDDS Attenuates Estradiol-Induced Endometrial Hyperplasia in Rats by Modulation of NF-κB and Nrf2/HO-1 Axes

Endometrial hyperplasia (EH) is the most common risk factor for endometrial malignancy in females. The pathogenesis of EH has been directly linked to uterine inflammation, which can result in abnormal cell division and decreased apoptosis. Piceatannol (PIC), a natural polyphenolic stilbene, is known to exert anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-proliferative activities. The aim of the present study was to examine the potential preventive role of PIC in estradiol benzoate (EB)-induced EH in rats. A self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS) was prepared to improve the solubility of the PIC. Therefore, thirty female Wistar rats were divided into five groups: (1) control, (2) PIC SNEDDS (10 mg/kg), (3) EB (0.6 mg/kg), (4) EB + PIC SNEDDS (5 mg/kg) and (5) EB + PIC SNEDDS (10 mg/kg). The administration of PIC SNEDDS prevented EB-induced increases in uterine weights and histopathological changes. Additionally, it displayed pro-apoptotic and antioxidant activity in the endometrium. Immunohistochemical staining of uterine sections co-treated with PIC SNEDDS showed significantly decreased expression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and nuclear transcription factor-kappa B (NF-κB). This anti-inflammatory effect was further confirmed by a significant increase in Nrf2 and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) expression. These results indicate that SNEDDS nanoformulation of PIC possesses protective effects against experimentally induced EH.

Transcriptome aberration in mice uterus associated with steroid hormone response and inflammation induced by dioxybenzone and its metabolites

Benzophenone-type UV filters have been implicated in multiple adverse reproductive outcomes, yet the underlying processes and molecular targets on the female reproductive tract remain largely unknown. Herein, we investigated the effect of dioxybenzone, one of the widely used congeners, and its demethylated (M1) and hydroxylated (M2) metabolites on transcriptome profiles of ICR mice uterus and identified potential cellular targets in human endometrial stromal cells (HESCs) separated from normal endometrium tissues. Dioxybenzone, M1 and M2 (20 mg/kg bw/d) significantly induced transcriptome aberration with the induction of 683, 802, and 878 differentially expressed genes mainly involved in cancer, reproductive system disease and inflammatory disease. Compared to dioxybenzone, M1 and M2 exhibited a transcriptome profile more similar to estradiol in mice uterus, and subsequently promoted thicker endometrial columnar epithelial layer through upregulation of estrogen receptor target genes-Sprr2s. Dioxybenzone, M1 and M2 (0.1 or 1 μM) also exhibited estrogenic disrupting effect via increasing the mRNA expressions and production of the growth factors responsible for epithelial proliferation, including Fgfs and Igf-1 in HESCs. Additionally, the mRNA expressions of several inflammatory cytokines especially IL-1β in mice uterus and HESCs was significantly upregulated by dioxybenzone and its metabolites. Overall, we revealed that dioxybenzone and its metabolites triggered transcriptome perturbation dually associated with abnormal steroid hormone response and inflammation, both as key determinants to reproductive health risks.

Comparative aspects of treatment of endometrial hyperplasia in women of reproductive age with overweight

The aim. Minimization of the frequency of recurrence of endometrial hyperplasia (EH) in women of reproductive age with overweight (OW) depending on the tactics of treatment. Materials and methods. 90 women of reproductive age with endometrial hyperplasia and OW were selected. They, in turn, were divided into three groups: group 1 – 30 women who took a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRH agonist), namely at a dose of 3.75 mg intramuscularly once every 28 days; group 2 – 30 women who used progestin (norethisterone) at a dose of 10 mg per day from day 16 to 25 of the cycle, group 3 – 30 women who took combined oral contraception (COC) (30 mcg ethinyl estradiol and 150 mcg desogestrel) in a cyclic mode 21/7. Evaluation of the effectiveness of therapy included a clinical picture of the disease 6 months after the start of treatment, assessment of the variability of the average values of endometrial thickness and uterine size on ultrasound (US) of the pelvis 6 months after treatment. Also analyzed the effectiveness of therapy based on the results of morphological examination of the endometrium in a biopsy of the uterine mucosa, performed 6 months after the start of treatment. In addition, a general analysis of the frequency of EH recurrence was performed 6–24 months after treatment. Results. The results showed that in the group in which women were prescribed GnRH agonist, there was a significantly higher effectiveness of treatment, in particular the absence of uterine bleeding and menstrual disorders (MD). At the same time, in the other norethisterone group, 53.3 % (16) of women had intermenstrual uterine bleeding. In patients in the group in which women received COC, uterine bleeding was observed in 30.0 % (i.e. 9) of patients (p <0.05). Immediately after treatment, the average values of endometrial thickness in patients of group 1, according to ultrasound, was 3.59±0.47 mm, which was significantly less than in women of groups 2 and 3 – 6.81±0.59 mm (p<0.001) and 7.58±0.69 mm (p<0.001). In addition, patients in group 1 at 3, 6, 12, 24 months after the end of hormone therapy were registered significantly lower average values of endometrial thickness, compared with patients receiving norethisterone and estrogen-progestogen drugs. Conclusions. In a comparative evaluation of the effectiveness of treatment of endometrial hyperplastic processes in overweight women, it was found that the recurrence rate after 6–24 months occurs in 6.7 % (i.e. 2) of patients after GnRH agonist therapy, in 33.3 % (i.e. in 10) patients receiving norethisterone (p<0.001), and in 50 % (i.e. 15) of women treated with COC (p<0.001).

Cigarette Smoking and Estrogen-Related Cancer

Cigarette smoking is a known cause of many cancers, yet epidemiologic studies have found protective associations with the risk of four "estrogen-related" malignancies: endometrial cancer, endometrioid and clear cell ovarian cancers, and thyroid cancer. This review considers epidemiologic and biological aspects of these associations, focusing particularly on estrogen signaling, and contrasts them with those for breast cancer, another estrogen-related malignancy. The observational findings regarding the inverse associations are consistent and remain after adjustment for possible confounding factors. In general, women who smoke do not have lower circulating estrogen levels than nonsmokers, eliminating one possible explanation for reduced risks of these malignancies. For endometrial and endometrioid ovarian cancer, the negative associations could plausibly be explained by interference with signaling through the estrogen receptor α. However, this is unlikely to explain the lower risks of thyroid and clear cell ovarian cancers. For thyroid cancer, an anti-inflammatory effect of nicotine and reduced TSH levels from smoking have been proposed explanations for the inverse association, but both lack convincing evidence. While the overall impact of cigarette smoking is overwhelmingly negative, protective associations such as those discussed here can provide potential clues to disease etiology, treatment, and prevention.

Protective Effects of Irbesartan, an Angiotensin Receptor Blocker with PPARγ Agonistic Activity, against Estradiol Benzoate-Induced Endometrial Hyperplasia and Atypia in Female Rats via Modulation of TNFα/Survivin Pathway

Endometrial hyperplasia (EH) is a common gynecological problem and may progress to carcinoma. Early detection and management of EH are mandatory for the prevention of endometrial cancer. Activation of the renin-angiotensin system and angiotensin II signaling are involved in the progression of precancerous and cancerous lesions. However, no studies have evaluated the role of this system in estradiol benzoate (EB)-induced EH and atypia. Irbesartan (IRB), an angiotensin II receptor blocker with peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) agonistic activity was administered (30 mg/kg/d) in EB-treated (60 µg/100 g bodyweight, intramuscularly, three times per week) or untreated rats for 4 weeks. Uterine weight changes, malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase (SOD), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα), survivin, cleaved caspase 3, interleukin-10 (IL10), and PPARγ were measured in addition to undergoing histopathological examination. Results showed that EB-induced EH and atypia significantly increased the uterine body weight, malondialdehyde, TNFα, and survivin, accompanied with significantly decreased SOD, cleaved caspase 3, IL10, and PPARγ, with typical histopathological changes of EH and atypia. Coadministration of IRB significantly prevented EB-induced biochemical and histopathological changes. The protective effects of IRB may be attributed to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, reduction of survivin, and increased levels of cleaved caspase 3.

Changes in subsets of immunocytes in endometrial hyperplasia

PROBLEM

Endometrial hyperplasia (EH) is characterized by an endometrial gland-to-stroma ratio >1 and is one of the most common gynecological diseases in the world. The role of immunocyte subsets in the development of EH remains unknown.

METHODS

Patients who underwent dilatation and curettage due to abnormal uterine bleeding were recruited in the present study. Alterations in the numbers of different types of immune cell subsets in the endometrium of patients were analyzed by flow cytometry.

RESULTS

The present study included 48 patients who were divided into three groups, based on the pathological results: (a) proliferative period (PP, n = 12); (b) simple EH (SEH, n = 30); and (c) complex EH (CEH, n = 6). The results showed that immune cell subpopulations were significantly different between these three groups. Compared with the PP group, the proportion of CD45+ cells and neutrophils and the subtypes of T cells and macrophages were significantly increased in the SEH patients. Compared with the PP and SEH groups, subsets of immunocytes in the CEH group were significantly decreased, including the population of CD45+ cells and the subtypes of T cells and natural killer cells; in contrast, the proportion of macrophages was significantly increased. There were no significant differences between the other cell subsets in each group.

CONCLUSION

The changes in immune cell subsets may be closely associated with the progression of EH. Although the specific role of different immune cell subsets in the development of the diseases requires further study, the changes in the proportions of immune cell subsets should not be ignored.

Expression of IL17A in endometrial carcinoma and effects of IL17A on biological behaviour in Ishikawa cells

Objective

A growing body of evidence suggests chronic inflammation triggers the process of endometrial carcinogenesis. Interleukin (IL) 17A is an important proinflammatory factor involved in the tumour angiogenesis processes of many solid tumours. This study aimed to characterize the function of IL17A in endometrioid-type endometrial carcinoma.

Methods

Levels of IL17A in human endometrial tissues were analysed by immunohistochemistry. In vitro proliferation and migration were analysed in Ishikawa cells treated with IL17A, using cell counting kit-8, wound healing and transwell assays. Western blots were used to analyse levels of oestrogen receptor (ER)α and ERβ proteins in Ishikawa cells treated with IL17A.

Results

IL17A levels were significantly higher in endometrial carcinoma tissues than in endometrial hyperplasic tissues. Significantly increased proliferation and migration was observed in Ishikawa cells treated with IL17A versus controls. Investigation of the molecular mechanism revealed that IL17A treatment upregulated the ERα/ERβ protein ratio in Ishikawa cells.

Conclusions

IL17A may be an important proinflammatory factor involved in promoting endometrial carcinogenesis.

PTEN/PI3K/VEGF signaling pathway involved in the protective effect of xanthine oxidase inhibitor febuxostat against endometrial hyperplasia in rats

Endometrial hyperplasia (EH) is a medical condition that affects many females as it increases their uterine carcinogenic potential. EH results from entangling hormonal imbalance and inflammatory response. The study examined the role of a xanthine oxidase inhibitor, febuxostat, in a rat model of EH. Adult female Wistar albino rats were subjected to estradiol valerate (EV) 2 mg/kg for 10 days to induce EH. Another group was treated concomitantly with febuxostat 10 mg/kg for the same period. The uterine malondialdehyde, reduced glutathione (GSH), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were assessed by chemical methods. Gene expressions of phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K), Akt, and hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha were assessed by the quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Moreover, the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Histopathology and immunohistochemical techniques were used for the detection of phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN). The results revealed that EV administration induced complex EH with focal atypia and loss of PTEN expression by the histological examination. Uteri of the EV group showed a significant drop in GSH content and SOD activity and rise in the expressions of PI3K, Akt, VEGF, and IL-6. Febuxostat administration significantly improved the uterine GSH and SOD levels. It decreased the expressions of PI3K, Akt, VEGF, and IL-6. The endometrium showed a regression of the proliferative epithelium with the restoration of PTEN expression and the absence of the atypical features. In conclusion, febuxostat protected the endometrium against estrogen-induced EH and may be beneficial in the management along with the hormonal therapy.

Clinical application of red cell distribution width, mean platelet volume, and cancer antigen 125 detection in endometrial cancer

Background

Red cell distribution width (RDW) and mean platelet volume (MPV) are considered to be associated with tumors. We investigated the diagnostic value of RDW, MPV, and cancer antigen 125 (CA125), alone or in combination, in the diagnosis of endometrial cancer and endometrial hyperplasia.

Methods

This study included 144 patients with endometrial cancer (stage I: 32; II: 42; III: 48; and IV: 22), 104 patients with endometrial hyperplasia, and 80 healthy control subjects. The whole blood cell parameters were analyzed by a Mindray Blood Cell Analyzer (CAL8000), whereas CA125 was analyzed using an Architect i2000 Analyzer (Abbott).

Results

Significant differences in RDW, MPV, and CA125 level were observed in the endometrial cancer, endometrial hyperplasia, and control groups (P < .05). Red cell distribution width was positively correlated (r = .735) whereas MPV was negatively correlated with (r = −.736) endometrial cancer staging. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of the combined diagnosis of endometrial cancer based on RDW, MPV, and CA125 was 0.924 (95% CI: 0.881‐0.955). The sensitivity and specificity of the combined diagnosis were larger than those of the independent detections involving RDW, MPV, and CA125.

Conclusions

The combination of RDW, MPV, and CA125 can improve the differential diagnosis of endometrial cancer and endometrial hyperplasia.

Amelioration of estrogen-induced endometrial hyperplasia in female rats by hemin via heme-oxygenase-1 expression, suppression of iNOS, p38 MAPK, and Ki67

Although heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is part of an endogenous defense system implicated in the homeostatic response, its role in cell proliferation and tumor progression is still controversial. Endometrial hyperplasia (EH) is associated with high risk of endometrial cancer (EC). Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the effect of hemin, a HO-1 inducer, against EH. Thirty-two female rats (60-70 days old) were divided into 4 groups treated for 1 week: vehicle control group, hemin group (25 mg/kg; i.p. 3 times/week), estradiol valerate (EV) group (2 mg/kg per day, p.o.), and hemin plus EV group. Sera were obtained for reduced glutathione level. Uterine malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, total nitrite/nitrate, and interleukin-1β levels were estimated. HO-1 and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase expressions were obtained in uterine tissue. Uterine histological and immunohistochemical assessment of iNOS and Ki67 were also done. Results demonstrated that upregulation of HO-1 expression in hemin plus EV rats led to amelioration of EH which was confirmed with histological examination. This was associated with significant decrease in oxidative stress parameters, p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase expression, and interleukin-1β level. Also, uterine iNOS and Ki67 expressions were markedly suppressed. In conclusion, upregulation of HO-1 expression via hemin has ameliorative effect against EH through its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiproliferative actions.

Hypothyroidism induces uterine hyperplasia and inflammation related to sex hormone receptors expression in virgin rabbits

AIMS

In women, uterine alterations have been associated with sex steroid hormones. Sex hormones regulate the expression of thyroid hormone receptors (TRs) in the uterus, but an inverse link is unknown. We analyzed the impact of hypothyroidism on histological characteristics, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF-A), progesterone receptors (PR), estrogen receptors (ER), thyroid hormone receptors (TRs), perilipin (PLIN-A), and lipid content in the uterus of virgin rabbits.

MAIN METHODS

Twelve Chinchilla-breed adult female rabbits were grouped into control (n = 6) and hypothyroid (n = 6; 0.02% of methimazole for 30 days). The thickness of endometrium and myometrium, number of uterine glands, and infiltration of immune cells were analyzed. The expression of VEGF-A, PR, ERα, and PLIN-A was determined by RT-PCR and western blot. The uterine content of triglycerides (TAG), total cholesterol (TC), and malondialdehyde (MDA) was quantified.

KEY FINDINGS

Hypothyroidism promoted uterine hyperplasia and a high infiltration of immune cells into the endometrium, including macrophages CD163+. It also increased the expression of VEGF-A, TRA, and ERα-66 but reduced that of PR and ERα-46. The uterine content of PLIN-A, TAG, and TC was reduced, but that of MDA was augmented in hypothyroid rabbits.

SIGNIFICANCE

Our results suggest that uterine hyperplasia and inflammation promoted by hypothyroidism should be related to changes in the VEGF-A, PR, ER, and TRs expression, as well as to modifications in the PLIN-A expression, lipid content, and oxidative status. These results suggest that hypothyroidism should affect the fertility of females.

Effects of Flaxseed Oil Omega-3 Fatty Acids Supplementation on Regression and Metabolic Status in Endometrial Hyperplasia: A randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

Background:

Data on the effects of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on clinical symptoms and metabolic profiles in patients with endometrial hyperplasia (EH) are limited. This intervention was performed to assess the effects of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on clinical symptoms and metabolic profiles in patients with endometrial hyperplasia (EH).

Methods:

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted among 40 women diagnosed with simple endometrial hyperplasia (EH). EH diagnosis was performed based on specific diagnostic procedures of biopsy. Participants were randomised into two groups to intake 1,000 mg omega-3 fatty acid supplements from flaxseed oil (n = 20) or placebo (n = 20), twice a day for 12 weeks. Fasting blood samples were taken at baseline and after the 12-week intervention to determine related markers.

Results:

Compared with the placebo, omega-3 fatty acid supplementation significantly decreased fasting plasma glucose (FPG) (-7.1 ± 9.6 vs. +2.0 ± 4.9 mg/dL, P = 0.001), serum insulin levels (-1.5 ± 4.6 vs. +1.6 ± 3.9 μIU/mL, P = 0.02) and homeostasis model of assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) (-0.4 ± 1.1 vs. +0.4 ± 1.0, P = 0.02). In addition, a significant increase in plasma total antioxidant capacity (TAC) (+102.6 ± 69.6 vs. +5.0 ± 37.1 mmol/L, P < 0.001) and total glutathione (GSH) levels (+63.6 ± 84.9 vs. -3.0 ± 69.4 μmol/L, P = 0.01) were seen following the supplementation of omega-3 fatty acid compared with the placebo. Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation had no significant effect on regression, lipid profiles, and other biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative.

Conclusions:

In conclusion, we found that omega-3 fatty acid administration for 12 weeks to subjects with EH significantly improved FPG, insulin, HOMA-IR, TAC and GSH levels, but did not influence regression, lipid profiles, and other biomarkers of inflammatory and oxidative stress.

Mechanisms underlying the protective effect of montelukast in prevention of endometrial hyperplasia in female rats

OBJECTIVE

To study the possible protective role of montelukast in endometrial hyperplesia (EH) rat model, induced by estradiol valerate (EV).

METHODS/MATERIALS

Thirty six female albino Wistar rats were classified into 7 groups: normal control, EV (2 mg/kg/day, p.o.), montelukast (10 mg/kg/day, p.o.), montelukast (1 mg/kg/day, p.o.) + EV (2 mg/kg/day, p.o.), montelukast (10 mg/kg/day, p.o.) + EV (2 mg/kg/day, p.o.), montelukast (20 mg/kg/day, p.o.) + EV (2 mg/kg/day, p.o.) groups. Uterine malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), total nitrites (NO) and serum total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were determined. Uterine, serum total cholesterol, high density lipoprotein (HDL) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α were measured. Histopathological examination of the uterine tissue was also done. In addition, immunohistochemistry was done using Phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) antibodies.

RESULTS

Our results showed that montelukast in dose dependant manner improves oxidative stress, lipids profile and TNF α which were affected by EV. Moreover, immunohistochemical examination revealed that montelukast markedly reduced iNOS expression, while expression of PTEN was markedly enhanced, as compared to EV group. The protective effects of montelukast were also verified histopathologically.

CONCLUSIONS

Montelukast in dose dependant manner provided biochemical and histo-pathological improvement in EV induced EH, through its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant activity and inhibition of iNOS expression with induction of PTEN expression.

Neupogen and mesenchymal stem cells are the novel therapeutic agents in regeneration of induced endometrial fibrosis in experimental rats

Endometrial fibrosis is the presence of intrauterine adhesions (IUAs) after any uterine surgery or curettage and it results in infertility and recurrent pregnancy loss. We evaluated the role of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) as a therapeutic agent of endometrial fibrosis. We also compared the effect of MSCs with the effect of estrogen and neupogen either each alone or as a combined therapy with MSCs. This experimental study was performed on 84 albino rats which were divided into seven groups (n=12 rats/group) as follows, group1: normal control rats, group 2: induced fibrosis, group 3: induced fibrosis that received oral estrogen, group 4: induced fibrosis that received hMSCs, group 5: induced fibrosis that received hMSCs and estrogen, group 6: induced fibrosis that received neupogen, and group 7: induced fibrosis that received hMSCs and neupogen. The extent of fibrosis, vascularization, and inflammation were evaluated by; qRT-PCR for interleukin 1 (IL-1), interleukin 6 (IL-6), TNF, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), and RUNX; ELISA for connective tissue growth factor (CTGF); Western blotting for collagen-I; immunohistochemistry examination for VEGF and RUNX-2; and histopathological assessment. In therapeutic groups either by hMSCs alone or combined with estrogen or neupogen; fibrosis and inflammation (IL-1, IL-6, TNF, TGF-β, RUNX, CTGF, and collagen-I) were significantly decreased but vascularization (VEGF) was significantly increased (P<0.05) compared with induced fibrosis group. The most significant result was obtained in fibrosis that received combined therapy of hMSCs and neupogen (P=0.000). Stem cells and neupogen are a highly effective alternative regenerative agents in endometrial fibrosis.