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Mokhtari T, Irandoost E, Sheikhbahaei F. Stress, pain, anxiety, and depression in endometriosis-Targeting glial activation and inflammation. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 132:111942. [PMID: 38565045 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.111942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2024] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Endometriosis (EM) is a gynecological inflammatory disease often accompanied by stress, chronic pelvic pain (CPP), anxiety, and depression, leading to a diminished quality of life. This review aims to discuss the relationship between systemic and local inflammatory responses in the central nervous system (CNS), focusing on glial dysfunctions (astrocytes and microglia) as in critical brain regions involved in emotion, cognition, pain processing, anxiety, and depression. The review presents that EM is connected to increased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the circulation. Additionally, chronic stress and CPP as stressors may contribute to the dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, depleting the production of inflammatory mediators in the circulatory system and the brain. The systemic cytokines cause blood-brain barrier (BBB) breakdown, activate microglia in the brain, and lead to neuroinflammation. Furthermore, CPP may induce neuronal morphological alterations in critical regions through central sensitization and the activation of glial cells. The activation of glial cells, particularly the polarization of microglia, leads to the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome and the overproduction of inflammatory cytokines. These inflammatory cytokines interact with the signaling pathways involved in neural plasticity. Additionally, persistent inflammatory conditions in the brain lead to neuronal death, which is correlated with a reduced volume of key brain regions such as the hippocampus. This review highlights the involvement of glial cells in the pathogenesis of the mental comorbidities of EM (i.e., pain, anxiety, and depression) and to discuss potential therapeutic approaches for targeting the inflammation and activation of microglia in key brain regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahmineh Mokhtari
- Department of Pharmacology, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China; Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
| | - Elnaz Irandoost
- Sarem Women's Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran.
| | - Fatemeh Sheikhbahaei
- Department of Anatomy, Afzalipour School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
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Zhang C, Dai Y, Zhang J, Li X, Jia S, Shi J, Leng J. Distribution of Nerve Fibers in Abdominal Wall Endometriosis and Their Clinical Significance. J Pain Res 2024; 17:1563-1570. [PMID: 38699067 PMCID: PMC11063460 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s453148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective This study aimed to explore the distribution of nerve fibers in abdominal wall endometriosis (AWE) and discern their association with pain. Methods A retrospective case-control study was conducted. The cases comprised 30 patients diagnosed with AWE, while the control group consisted of 17 patients who had undergone laparotomy without any history of endometriosis. We analyzed clinical characteristics and examined the innervation patterns in samples using stains for S-100, neuron-specific enolase (NSE), protein gene product 9.5 (PGP9.5), neurofilament (NF), and substance P (SP) antibodies. Results There was a notable increase in the density of S-100, NSE and PGP9.5 immunoreactive nerve fibers and a higher proportion of SP positivity in AWE lesions compared to standard abdominal wall scars (p < 0.05). However, there were no significant differences in the density or proportion of NF-immunoreactive nerve fibers between the cases and the controls. Moreover, no statistically significant correlation was observed between the density of S-100, NSE, PGP9.5, NF, or SP-positive nerve fibers and pain scores. Conclusion This study demonstrated an increased immunoreactive nerve fiber density located in AWE lesions compared to normal abdominal wall scars. Further high-quality studies are needed to investigate the mechanisms responsible for pain in women with endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenyu Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, National Clinical Research Center for Obstetric & Gynecologic Diseases, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yi Dai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, National Clinical Research Center for Obstetric & Gynecologic Diseases, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Junji Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, National Clinical Research Center for Obstetric & Gynecologic Diseases, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaoyan Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, National Clinical Research Center for Obstetric & Gynecologic Diseases, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shuangzheng Jia
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, National Cancer Center / National Clinical Research Center for Cancer / Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jinghua Shi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, National Clinical Research Center for Obstetric & Gynecologic Diseases, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jinhua Leng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, National Clinical Research Center for Obstetric & Gynecologic Diseases, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
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Astruc A, Roux L, Robin F, Sall NR, Dion L, Lavoué V, Legendre G, Leveque J, Bessede T, Bertrand M, Odimba Mpoy J, Nzau-Ngoma E, Morandi X, Chedotal A, Le Lous M, Nyangoh Timoh K. Advanced Insights into Human Uterine Innervation: Implications for Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain. J Clin Med 2024; 13:1433. [PMID: 38592287 PMCID: PMC10932059 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13051433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Understanding uterine innervation, an essential aspect of female reproductive biology, has often been overlooked. Nevertheless, the complex architecture of uterine innervation plays a significant role in conditions such as endometriosis. Recently, advances in histological techniques have provided unprecedented details about uterine innervation, highlighting its intricate structure, distribution, and density. The intricate nature of uterine innervation and its influence on pathologies such as endometriosis has garnered increasing attention. (2) Objectives: This review aims to compile, analyze, and summarize the existing research on uterine innervation, and investigate its implications for the pathogenesis of endometriosis and associated pain. (3) Methods: A systematic review was conducted in line with PRISMA guidelines. Using the PubMed database, we searched relevant keywords such as "uterine innervation", "endometriosis", and "pain association". (4) Results: The initial literature search yielded a total of 3300 potential studies. Of these, 45 studies met our inclusion criteria and were included in the final review. The analyzed studies consistently demonstrated that the majority of studies focused on macroscopic dissection of uterine innervation for surgical purposes. Fewer studies focused on micro-innervation for uterine innervation. For endometriosis, few studies focused on neural pain pathways whereas many studies underlined an increase in nerve fiber density within ectopic endometrial tissue. This heightened innervation is suggested as a key contributor to the chronic pain experienced by endometriosis patients. (5) Conclusions: The understanding of uterine innervation, and its alterations in endometriosis, offer promising avenues for research and potential treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Audrey Astruc
- Laboratoire d’Anatomie et d’Organogenèse, Faculté de Médecine, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Rennes, 35000 Rennes, France; (A.A.); (L.R.); (X.M.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rennes University Hospital, 35000 Rennes, France; (N.R.S.); (L.D.); (V.L.); (J.L.); (M.L.L.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Angers University Hospital, 49100 Angers, France;
| | - Léa Roux
- Laboratoire d’Anatomie et d’Organogenèse, Faculté de Médecine, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Rennes, 35000 Rennes, France; (A.A.); (L.R.); (X.M.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rennes University Hospital, 35000 Rennes, France; (N.R.S.); (L.D.); (V.L.); (J.L.); (M.L.L.)
| | - Fabien Robin
- H2P2 Histopathology Laboratory, Rennes 1 University, 35000 Rennes, France;
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Digestive Surgery, University Hospital, Rennes 1 University, 35000 Rennes, France
- INSERM U1242, Chemistry Oncogenesis Stress Signaling, Rennes 1 University, 35000 Rennes, France
| | - Ndeye Racky Sall
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rennes University Hospital, 35000 Rennes, France; (N.R.S.); (L.D.); (V.L.); (J.L.); (M.L.L.)
- INSERM, LTSI—UMR 1099, Rennes 1 University, 35000 Rennes, France
| | - Ludivine Dion
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rennes University Hospital, 35000 Rennes, France; (N.R.S.); (L.D.); (V.L.); (J.L.); (M.L.L.)
- INSERM, IRSET—UMR_S 1085, 35000 Rennes, France
| | - Vincent Lavoué
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rennes University Hospital, 35000 Rennes, France; (N.R.S.); (L.D.); (V.L.); (J.L.); (M.L.L.)
- INSERM, IRSET—UMR_S 1085, 35000 Rennes, France
| | - Guillaume Legendre
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Angers University Hospital, 49100 Angers, France;
| | - Jean Leveque
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rennes University Hospital, 35000 Rennes, France; (N.R.S.); (L.D.); (V.L.); (J.L.); (M.L.L.)
| | - Thomas Bessede
- Urology Department, APHP, Université Paris-Saclay, 94270 Le Kremlin-Bicetre, France;
| | - Martin Bertrand
- Surgery Department, Nîmes University Hospital, University of Montpellier, 30900 Nîmes, France;
| | - Jules Odimba Mpoy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo; (J.O.M.); (E.N.-N.)
| | - Emmanuel Nzau-Ngoma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo; (J.O.M.); (E.N.-N.)
| | - Xavier Morandi
- Laboratoire d’Anatomie et d’Organogenèse, Faculté de Médecine, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Rennes, 35000 Rennes, France; (A.A.); (L.R.); (X.M.)
- INSERM, LTSI—UMR 1099, Rennes 1 University, 35000 Rennes, France
| | - Alain Chedotal
- INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Université, 75012 Paris, France;
| | - Maela Le Lous
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rennes University Hospital, 35000 Rennes, France; (N.R.S.); (L.D.); (V.L.); (J.L.); (M.L.L.)
- INSERM, LTSI—UMR 1099, Rennes 1 University, 35000 Rennes, France
| | - Krystel Nyangoh Timoh
- Laboratoire d’Anatomie et d’Organogenèse, Faculté de Médecine, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Rennes, 35000 Rennes, France; (A.A.); (L.R.); (X.M.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rennes University Hospital, 35000 Rennes, France; (N.R.S.); (L.D.); (V.L.); (J.L.); (M.L.L.)
- INSERM, LTSI—UMR 1099, Rennes 1 University, 35000 Rennes, France
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Guan Q, Velho RV, Jordan A, Pommer S, Radde I, Sehouli J, Mechsner S. Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ Opioid Peptide-Receptor Expression in the Endometriosis-Associated Nerve Fibers-Possible Treatment Option? Cells 2023; 12:1395. [PMID: 37408230 DOI: 10.3390/cells12101395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis (EM) is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting millions of women worldwide. Chronic pelvic pain is one of the main problems of this condition, leading to quality-of-life impairment. Currently, available treatment options are not able to treat these women accurately. A better understanding of the pain mechanisms would be beneficial to integrate additional therapeutic management strategies, especially specific analgesic options. To understand pain in more detail, nociceptin/orphanin FQ peptide (NOP) receptor expression was analyzed in EM-associated nerve fibers (NFs) for the first time. Laparoscopically excised peritoneal samples from 94 symptomatic women (73 with EM and 21 controls) were immunohistochemically stained for NOP, protein gene product 9.5 (PGP9.5), substance P (SP), calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP). Peritoneal NFs of EM patients and healthy controls were positive for NOP and often colocalized with SP-, CGRP-, TH-, and VIP-positive nerve fibers, suggesting that NOP is expressed in sensory and autonomic nerve fibers. In addition, NOP expression was increased in EM associate NF. Our findings highlight the potential of NOP agonists, particularly in chronic EM-associated pain syndromes and deserve further study, as the efficacy of NOP-selective agonists in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qihui Guan
- Endometriosis Research Center, Department of Gynecology Charité with Center of Oncological Surgery, Charité, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Renata Voltolini Velho
- Endometriosis Research Center, Department of Gynecology Charité with Center of Oncological Surgery, Charité, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Alice Jordan
- Endometriosis Research Center, Department of Gynecology Charité with Center of Oncological Surgery, Charité, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Sabrina Pommer
- Endometriosis Research Center, Department of Gynecology Charité with Center of Oncological Surgery, Charité, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Irene Radde
- Endometriosis Research Center, Department of Gynecology Charité with Center of Oncological Surgery, Charité, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Jalid Sehouli
- Endometriosis Research Center, Department of Gynecology Charité with Center of Oncological Surgery, Charité, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Sylvia Mechsner
- Endometriosis Research Center, Department of Gynecology Charité with Center of Oncological Surgery, Charité, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
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Bashir ST, Redden CR, Raj K, Arcanjo RB, Stasiak S, Li Q, Steelman AJ, Nowak RA. Endometriosis leads to central nervous system-wide glial activation in a mouse model of endometriosis. J Neuroinflammation 2023; 20:59. [PMID: 36879305 PMCID: PMC9987089 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-023-02713-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic pelvic pain (CPP) is a common symptom of endometriosis. Women with endometriosis are also at a high risk of suffering from anxiety, depression, and other psychological disorders. Recent studies indicate that endometriosis can affect the central nervous system (CNS). Changes in the functional activity of neurons, functional magnetic resonance imaging signals, and gene expression have been reported in the brains of rat and mouse models of endometriosis. The majority of the studies thus far have focused on neuronal changes, whereas changes in the glial cells in different brain regions have not been studied. METHODS Endometriosis was induced in female mice (45-day-old; n = 6-11/timepoint) by syngeneic transfer of donor uterine tissue into the peritoneal cavity of recipient animals. Brains, spines, and endometriotic lesions were collected for analysis at 4, 8, 16, and 32 days post-induction. Sham surgery mice were used as controls (n = 6/timepoint). The pain was assessed using behavioral tests. Using immunohistochemistry for microglia marker ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule-1 (IBA1) and machine learning "Weka trainable segmentation" plugin in Fiji, we evaluated the morphological changes in microglia in different brain regions. Changes in glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) for astrocytes, tumor necrosis factor (TNF), and interleukin-6 (IL6) were also evaluated. RESULTS We observed an increase in microglial soma size in the cortex, hippocampus, thalamus, and hypothalamus of mice with endometriosis compared to sham controls on days 8, 16, and 32. The percentage of IBA1 and GFAP-positive area was increased in the cortex, hippocampus, thalamus, and hypothalamus in mice with endometriosis compared to sham controls on day 16. The number of microglia and astrocytes did not differ between endometriosis and sham control groups. We observed increased TNF and IL6 expression when expression levels from all brain regions were combined. Mice with endometriosis displayed reduced burrowing behavior and hyperalgesia in the abdomen and hind-paw. CONCLUSION We believe this is the first report of central nervous system-wide glial activation in a mouse model of endometriosis. These results have significant implications for understanding chronic pain associated with endometriosis and other issues such as anxiety and depression in women with endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shah Tauseef Bashir
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 1207 W. Gregory Drive, Room 314 ASL, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Catherine R Redden
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 1207 W. Gregory Drive, Room 314 ASL, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Kishori Raj
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 1207 W. Gregory Drive, Room 314 ASL, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Rachel B Arcanjo
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 1207 W. Gregory Drive, Room 314 ASL, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Sandra Stasiak
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 1207 W. Gregory Drive, Room 314 ASL, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Quanxi Li
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Andrew J Steelman
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 1207 W. Gregory Drive, Room 314 ASL, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Romana A Nowak
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 1207 W. Gregory Drive, Room 314 ASL, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA.
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From Retrograde Menstruation to Endometrial Determinism and a Brave New World of "Root Treatment" of Endometriosis: Destiny or a Fanciful Utopia? Biomolecules 2023; 13:biom13020336. [PMID: 36830705 PMCID: PMC9953699 DOI: 10.3390/biom13020336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Practically unknown outside of China, the "endometrial determinism" theory was proposed to account for the apparent gap between the relatively low prevalence of endometriosis and nearly universal retrograde menstruation. Attracting uncritical advocacy, the theory culminates in a recent consensus by elite Chinese gynecologists in favor of "root treatment", intended to nip endometriosis in the bud. Correcting endometrial "defects" can gain further momentum by the presence of cancer-driver mutations such as KRAS mutations in the endometrium of women with endometriosis and the recent introduction of therapeutics aiming to rectify the effect of these mutations for cancer treatment. We provide a critical appraisal of evidence for endometrial aberrations in endometriosis and relevant experimental evidence. All available evidence of endometrial "defect" is invariably post hoc and may well be secondary to induced endometriosis. We propose that the theory of "endometrial determinism" needs to demonstrate a clear causal and a phylogenetic relationship between endometrial aberrations and endometriosis. We argue that while it is highly likely that endometriosis is a consequence of retrograde menstruation, the case that molecular aberrations as a sole or a necessary determinant remains to be proven. "Root treatment" is a worthy ambition but as of now it is close to a fanciful Utopia.
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Infertility workup: identifying endometriosis. Fertil Steril 2022; 118:29-33. [PMID: 35568524 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2022.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis was classically diagnosed during diagnostic laparoscopies, which used to be routinely performed up until a decade ago or so. This practice fitted with the long-held belief that surgery was the gold standard for diagnosing endometriosis. Today, the abandon of routine diagnostic laparoscopies-in favor of assisted reproductive technology-first therapeutic approaches-has created a void for diagnosing endometriosis. Modern-day imaging techniques-ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging-when used with a systematic approach have offered a reliable replacement option for diagnosing endometriosis. In infertility, endometriosis should be identified or excluded on the basis of past history or confirmation or exclusion suspicion on the basis of history and/or physical examination.
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Pinsard M, Mouchet N, Dion L, Bessede T, Bertrand M, Darai E, Bellaud P, Loget P, Mazaud-Guittot S, Morandi X, Leveque J, Lavoué V, Duraes M, Nyangoh Timoh K. Anatomic and functional mapping of human uterine innervation. Fertil Steril 2022; 117:1279-1288. [PMID: 35367063 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2022.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To better understand the physiology of pain in pelvic pain pathological conditions, such as endometriosis, in which alterations of uterine innervation have been highlighted, we performed an anatomic and functional mapping of the macro- and microinnervation of the human uterus. Our aim was to provide a 3-dimensional reconstruction model of uterine innervation. DESIGN This was an experimental study. We dissected the pelvises of 4 human female fetuses into serial sections, and treated them with hematoxylin and eosin staining before immunostaining. SETTING Academic Research Unit. PATIENTS None. INTERVENTIONS None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Detection of nerves (S100 +) and characterization of the types of nerves. The slices obtained were aligned to construct a 3-dimensional model. RESULTS A 3-dimensional model of uterine innervation was constructed. The nerve fibers appeared to have a centripetal path from the uterine serosa to the endometrium. Within the myometrium, innervation was dense. Endometrial innervation was sparse but present in the functional layer of the endometrium. Overall innervation was richest in the supravaginal cervix and rarer in the body of the uterus. Innervation was rich particularly laterally to the cervix next to the parametrium and paracervix. Four types of nerve fibers were identified: autonomic sympathetic (TH+), parasympathetic (VIP+), and sensitive (NPY+, CGRP1+ and VIP+). They were found in the 3 portions and the 3 layers of the uterus. CONCLUSIONS We constructed a 3-dimensional model of the human uterine innervation. This model could provide a solid base for studying uterine innervation in pathologic situations, in order to find new therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marion Pinsard
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hopital Universitaire de Rennes, Rennes, France
| | - Nicolas Mouchet
- University Rennes 1, CNRS, Inserm UMS Biosit, France BioImaging, Core Facility H2P2 Rennes, France
| | - Ludivine Dion
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hopital Universitaire de Rennes, Rennes, France; Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail) Rennes, France
| | - Thomas Bessede
- UMR 1195, University Paris-Sud, INSERM, Université Paris-Saclay, Le Kremlin-Bicetre, France; Urology Department, Hopitaux Universitaires Paris-Sud, Le Kremlin-Bicetre, France
| | | | - Emile Darai
- Service de gynécologie obstétrique et médecine de la reproduction, Hôpital Tenon, Paris, France; Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, Paris, France
| | - Pascale Bellaud
- University Rennes 1, CNRS, Inserm UMS Biosit, France BioImaging, Core Facility H2P2 Rennes, France
| | - Philippe Loget
- Service d'Anatomie et Cytologie Pathologiques, Rennes, France
| | - Séverine Mazaud-Guittot
- Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail) Rennes, France
| | - Xavier Morandi
- Laboratoire d'Anatomie et d'Organogenèse, Faculté de Médecine, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Rennes, Rennes, France; Department of Neurosurgery, Rennes University Hospital, Rennes, France
| | - Jean Leveque
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hopital Universitaire de Rennes, Rennes, France
| | - Vincent Lavoué
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hopital Universitaire de Rennes, Rennes, France; Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail) Rennes, France
| | - Martha Duraes
- Urology Department, Hopitaux Universitaires Paris-Sud, Le Kremlin-Bicetre, France
| | - Krystel Nyangoh Timoh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hopital Universitaire de Rennes, Rennes, France; Laboratoire d'Anatomie et d'Organogenèse, Faculté de Médecine, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Rennes, Rennes, France; University Rennes, INSERM, LTSI - UMR 1099, F35000, Rennes, France.
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9
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Delanerolle G, Ramakrishnan R, Hapangama D, Zeng Y, Shetty A, Elneil S, Chong S, Hirsch M, Oyewole M, Phiri P, Elliot K, Kothari T, Rogers B, Sandle N, Haque N, Pluchino N, Silem M, O'Hara R, Hull ML, Majumder K, Shi JQ, Raymont V. A systematic review and meta-analysis of the Endometriosis and Mental-Health Sequelae; The ELEMI Project. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 17:17455065211019717. [PMID: 34053382 PMCID: PMC8182632 DOI: 10.1177/17455065211019717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Background: It is important to evaluate sequalae for complex chronic health conditions such as endometriosis and mental health disorders. Endometriosis impacts 1 in 10 women. Mental health outcomes can be a primary determinant in many physical health conditions although this is an area not well researched particularly in women’s health. This has been problematic for endometriosis patients in particular, who report mental health issues as well as other key comorbidities such as chronic pelvic pain and infertility. This could be partly due to the complexities associated with comprehensively exploring overlaps between physical and mental health disorders in the presence of multiple comorbidities and their potential mechanistic relationship. Methods: In this evidence synthesis, a systematic methodology and mixed-methods approaches were used to synthesize both qualitative and quantitative data to examine the prevalence of the overlapping sequalae between endometriosis and psychiatric symptoms and disorders. As part of this, an evidence synthesis protocol was developed which included a systematic review protocol that was published on PROSPERO (CRD42020181495). The aim was to identify and evaluate mental health reported outcomes and prevalence of symptoms and psychiatric disorders associated with endometriosis. Findings: A total of 34 papers were included in the systematic review and 15 were included in the meta-analysis. Anxiety and depression symptoms were the most commonly reported mental health outcomes while a pooled analysis also revealed high prevalence of chronic pelvic pain and dyspareunia. Interpretation: It is evident that small-scale cross-sectional studies have been conducted in a variety of settings to determine mental health outcomes among endometriosis patients. Further research is required to comprehensively evaluate the mental health sequalae with endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rema Ramakrishnan
- Nuffield Department of Women's & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Dharani Hapangama
- University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.,Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation, Liverpool, UK
| | - Yutian Zeng
- Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ashish Shetty
- University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.,University College London, London, UK
| | - Sohier Elneil
- University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.,University College London, London, UK
| | - Sam Chong
- University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.,University College London, London, UK
| | - Martin Hirsch
- University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.,Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Molola Oyewole
- University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.,University College London, London, UK
| | - Peter Phiri
- Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK.,School of Primary Care, Population Sciences and Medical Education, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | | | | | - Bryony Rogers
- University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.,Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation, Liverpool, UK
| | - Natasha Sandle
- Oxford Brain Health Clinical Trials Unit, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Nyla Haque
- Oxford Brain Health Clinical Trials Unit, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Nicola Pluchino
- Divisions of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Martin Silem
- University Medical Center Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Rebecca O'Hara
- Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - M Louise Hull
- Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | | | - Jian Qing Shi
- Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China.,The Alan Turing Institute, London, UK
| | - Vanessa Raymont
- Oxford Brain Health Clinical Trials Unit, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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10
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Nonsurgical mouse model of endometriosis-associated pain that responds to clinically active drugs. Pain 2021; 161:1321-1331. [PMID: 32132396 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000001832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent inflammatory disease that affects approximately 10% of women. Debilitating pelvic or abdominal pain is one of its major clinical features. Current animal models of endometriosis-associated pain require surgery either to implant tissue or to remove the ovaries. Moreover, existing models do not induce spontaneous pain, which is the primary symptom of patients with chronic pain, including endometriosis. A lack of models that accurately recapitulate the disease phenotype must contribute to the high failure rate of clinical trials for analgesic drugs directed at chronic pain, including those for endometriosis. We set out to establish a murine model of endometriosis-associated pain. Endometriosis was induced nonsurgically by injecting a dissociated uterine horn into a recipient mouse. The induced lesions exhibited histological features that resemble human lesions along with an increase in proinflammatory cytokines and recruitment of immune cells. We also observed the presence of calcitonin gene-related peptide-, TRPA1-, and TRPV1-expressing nerve fibers in the lesions. This model induced mechanical allodynia, spontaneous abdominal pain, and changes in thermal selection behavior that indicate discomfort. These behavioral changes were reduced by drugs used clinically for endometriosis, specifically letrozole (aromatase inhibitor) and danazol (androgen). Endometriosis also induced neuronal changes as evidenced by activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway in TRPA1- and TRPV1-expressing dorsal root ganglion neurons. In conclusion, we have established a model of endometriosis-associated pain that responds to clinically active drugs and can, therefore, be used to identify novel therapies.
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11
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Dodds KN, Kyloh MA, Travis L, Beckett EAH, Spencer NJ. Morphological identification of thoracolumbar spinal afferent nerve endings in mouse uterus. J Comp Neurol 2020; 529:2029-2041. [PMID: 33190293 DOI: 10.1002/cne.25070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Major sensory innervation to the uterus is provided by spinal afferent nerves, whose cell bodies lie predominantly in thoracolumbar dorsal root ganglia (DRG). While the origin of the cell bodies of uterine spinal afferents is clear, the identity of their sensory endings has remained unknown. Hence, our major aim was to identify the location, morphology, and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP)-immunoreactivity of uterine spinal afferent endings supplied by thoracolumbar DRG. We also sought to determine the degree of uterine afferent innervation provided by the vagus nerve. Using an anterograde tracing technique, nulliparous female C57BL/6 mice were injected unilaterally with biotinylated dextran into thoracolumbar DRG (T13-L3). After 7-9 days, uterine horns were stained to visualize traced nerve axons and endings immunoreactive to CGRP. Whole uteri from a separate cohort of animals were injected with retrograde neuronal tracer (DiI) and dye uptake in nodose ganglia was examined. Anterogradely labeled axons innervated each uterine horn, these projected rostrally or caudally from their site of entry, branching to form varicose endings in the myometrium and/or vascular plexus. Most spinal afferent endings were CGRP-immunoreactive and morphologically classified as "simple-type." Rarely, uterine nerve cell bodies were labeled in nodose ganglia. Here, we provide the first detailed description of spinal afferent nerve endings in the uterus of a vertebrate. Distinct morphological types of spinal afferent nerve endings were identified throughout multiple anatomical layers of the uterine wall. Compared to other visceral organs, uterine spinal afferent endings displayed noticeably less morphological diversity. Few neurons in nodose ganglia innervate the uterus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelsi N Dodds
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University of South Australia, Bedford Park, South Australia, Australia
| | - Melinda A Kyloh
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University of South Australia, Bedford Park, South Australia, Australia
| | - Lee Travis
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University of South Australia, Bedford Park, South Australia, Australia
| | - Elizabeth A H Beckett
- Discipline of Physiology, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Nick J Spencer
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University of South Australia, Bedford Park, South Australia, Australia
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12
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Luddi A, Marrocco C, Governini L, Semplici B, Pavone V, Capaldo A, Tosti C, Greco S, Luisi S, Ciarmela P, Petraglia F, Piomboni P. Increased expression of neurogenic factors in uterine fibroids. Hum Reprod 2020; 34:2153-2162. [PMID: 31732726 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dez182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2019] [Revised: 07/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Are selective markers for the neuronal differentiation such as microtubule-associated protein 2 (MAP-2) and synaptophysin (SYP) as well as the nerve growth factor (NGF) expressed by fibroids, myometrium and eutopic endometrium? SUMMARY ANSWER Neuronal markers NGF, MAP-2 and SYP are highly expressed in fibroids compared with matched myometrium, and this neurogenic pathway is upregulated by tumor necrosis factor (TNF) alpha in cultured smooth muscle cells (SMCs). WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Uterine fibroids or leiomyomas are the most common benign tumors, accounting for approximately one-third of hysterectomies. The present trend is to improve the medical treatment avoiding surgery, also for fertility sparing; hence, the pathogenic mechanisms are investigated, aiming to develop new therapeutic strategy. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This laboratory-based case-control study is focused on fibroids and myometrial specimens obtained between 2015 and 2017 from 15 women of reproductive age at the proliferative phase of the menstrual cycle. Leiomyomas, matched myometrium and endometrium from each woman were analyzed. Control endometrium was obtained from women undergoing surgery for ovarian cyst (n = 15). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS qRT-PCR, western blotting and immunostaining were applied to evaluate the expression of neurogenic markers; the effects of TNF on NGF, MAP-2 and SYP expression in cultured SMCs from leiomyomas and matched myometrium were analyzed. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE qRT-PCR analyses using tissues from clinical patients showed that the levels of NGF, MAP-2 and SYP mRNA were significantly higher in uterine leiomyomas compared with their matched myometrium (P < 0.05), whereas only NGF was significantly increased in eutopic endometrium compared with healthy endometrium. In primary SMCs, isolated from fibroids or from the adjacent myometrium, NGF, MAP-2 and SYP mRNA expression were significantly increased by TNF treatment (P < 0.05). Finally, human endometrial stromal cells prepared from the endometrium of patients affected by uterine fibroids display higher TNF expression (P < 0.001). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION qRT-PCR analysis and immunofluorescence validation are robust methods demonstrating a clear upregulation of neurogenic factors in leiomyomas, even though additional studies are needed to establish a correlation between increased neuronal gene expression and degree of pain, as well as the involvement of inflammation mediators in the development of the neurogenic unhinge. Therefore, more in vivo studies are needed to confirm the results achieved from primary cultured SMCs. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The increased expression of neurogenic factors in uterine fibroids and endometrium may contribute to explain the painful stimuli. Accordingly, these neurogenic pathways may represent potential therapeutic avenues to treat the fibroid-related disorders. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was supported by research grants from the University of Siena. The authors declare no conflict of interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Luddi
- Dept. of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Camilla Marrocco
- Dept. of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Laura Governini
- Dept. of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Bianca Semplici
- Dept. of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Valentina Pavone
- Dept. of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Angela Capaldo
- Dept. of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Claudia Tosti
- Dept. of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Stefania Greco
- Dept. of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Stefano Luisi
- Dept. of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Pasquapina Ciarmela
- Dept. of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Felice Petraglia
- Dept. of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Paola Piomboni
- Dept. of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
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13
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Ilhan M, Gürağaç Dereli FT, Akkol EK. Novel Drug Targets with Traditional Herbal Medicines for Overcoming Endometriosis. Curr Drug Deliv 2019; 16:386-399. [PMID: 30588884 PMCID: PMC6637095 DOI: 10.2174/1567201816666181227112421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2018] [Revised: 12/11/2018] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a disease in which the lining of the endometrium is found outside of the uterus. Recent medical treatments for endometriosis have adverse effects, limiting their long-term use. Furthermore, the recurrence of the disease after the cessation of therapy is quite common, and most patients need to continue treatment to maintain a hypoestrogenic environment till conception. Notwithstanding recent advances in computational and chemical practices, traditional medicines are considered the most consistent sources for the discovery of new drugs. Numerous medicinal plants and plantderived compounds have been tested against gynecological disorders, mainly endometriosis. This review aimed to describe the pharmacological activity profile of the medicinal plants and their active ingredients and draw attention to the discovery of multitargeted drug molecules for rational therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mert Ilhan
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Gazi University, Etiler 06330, Ankara, Turkey.,Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Van Yuzuncu Yil University, Tusba 65080, Van, Turkey
| | | | - Esra Küpeli Akkol
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Gazi University, Etiler 06330, Ankara, Turkey
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14
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Li T, Mamillapalli R, Ding S, Chang H, Liu ZW, Gao XB, Taylor HS. Endometriosis alters brain electrophysiology, gene expression and increases pain sensitization, anxiety, and depression in female mice. Biol Reprod 2019; 99:349-359. [PMID: 29425272 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2017] [Accepted: 02/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent inflammatory disorder among reproductive-aged women associated with pelvic pain, anxiety, and depression. Pain is characterized by central sensitization; however, it is not clear if endometriosis leads to increased pain perception or if women with the disease are more sensitive to pain, increasing the detection of endometriosis. Endometriosis was induced in mice and changes in behavior including pain perception, brain electrophysiology, and gene expression were characterized. Behavioral tests revealed that mice with endometriosis were more depressed, anxious and sensitive to pain compared to sham controls. Microarray analyses confirmed by qPCR identified differential gene expression in several regions of brain in mice with endometriosis. In these mice, genes such as Gpr88, Glra3 in insula, Chrnb4, Npas4 in the hippocampus, and Lcn2 in the amygdala were upregulated while Lct, Serpina3n (insula), and Nptx2 (amygdala) were downregulated. These genes are involved in anxiety, locomotion, and pain. Patch clamp recordings in the amygdala were altered in endometriosis mice demonstrating an effect of endometriosis on brain electrophysiology. Endometriosis induced pain sensitization, anxiety, and depression by modulating brain gene expression and electrophysiology; the effect of endometriosis on the brain may underlie pain sensitization and mood disorders reported in women with the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Li
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Ramanaiah Mamillapalli
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Sheng Ding
- Department of Genetics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Hao Chang
- Department of Genetics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Zhong-Wu Liu
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Xiao-Bing Gao
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Hugh S Taylor
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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15
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Taylor HS, Dun EC, Chwalisz K. Clinical evaluation of the oral gonadotropin-releasing hormone-antagonist elagolix for the management of endometriosis-associated pain. Pain Manag 2019; 9:497-515. [PMID: 31434540 DOI: 10.2217/pmt-2019-0010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent chronic inflammatory disease associated with pelvic pain symptoms that are often severe, mainly dysmenorrhea, nonmenstrual pelvic pain and dyspareunia. This condition is also associated with peripheral and central sensitization. The current medical treatment options for endometriosis-associated pain are limited. Recently, the US FDA approved the novel, oral, nonpeptide gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist elagolix for the management of moderate to severe endometriosis-associated pain. Elagolix produces dose-dependent estrogen suppression, from partial suppression at lower doses to nearly full suppression at higher doses. This review article summarizes the current understanding of the pathophysiology of endometriosis, with a focus on the role of estrogen and the mechanisms of pain symptoms, and reviews the clinical development of elagolix in women with endometriosis-associated pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugh S Taylor
- Yale School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Erica C Dun
- Yale School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Kristof Chwalisz
- AbbVie Inc., 1 North Waukegan Road, Bldg. AP4A-3, North Chicago, IL 60064, USA
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16
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Aleksandrovych V, Kurnik-Łucka M, Bereza T, Białas M, Pasternak A, Cretoiu D, Walocha JA, Gil K. The Autonomic Innervation and Uterine Telocyte Interplay in Leiomyoma Formation. Cell Transplant 2019; 28:619-629. [PMID: 30841718 PMCID: PMC7103609 DOI: 10.1177/0963689719833303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The autonomic innervation of the uterus is involved in multiple pathophysiological processes in both humans and animals. Pathological conditions such as adenomyosis or inflammatory pelvic disease are usually accompanied by significant alterations in uterine innervation. In the current study, we focused on autonomic innervation of uterine fibroids, the identification of recently described interstitial cells, telocytes, and the possible interplay between these structures. In this work, uterine telocytes were identified by immunopositivity for c-kit, CD34, and PDGFRα. Nerves were revealed by immunolabeling for neuronal markers: protein gene product PGP 9.5, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), choline acetyltransferase (ChAT), and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH). The gross organization of myometrial tissue has been analyzed by routine histology. The results demonstrated that the density of iNOS and ChAT-immunopositive neurons in the uterine fibroids was higher than that in the control samples. The density of telocytes in the fibrosis foci was lower than that in the normal myometrium. Our results suggest that autonomic innervation and telocytes are involved in the microenvironment imbalance characteristic of uterine leiomyoma. Since NOS-positive nerves play an important role in oxidative stress modulation, they might lead to a decrease in the number of telocytes, which are crucial components in the pathogenesis of leiomyoma formation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Magdalena Kurnik-Łucka
- 1 Department of Pathophysiology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
| | - Tomasz Bereza
- 2 Department of Anatomy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
| | - Magdalena Białas
- 3 Department of Pathomorphology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
| | - Artur Pasternak
- 2 Department of Anatomy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
| | - Dragos Cretoiu
- 4 Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology and Histology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania.,5 Materno-Fetal Assistance Excellence Unit, Alessandrescu-Rusescu National Institute of Mother and Child Health, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Jerzy A Walocha
- 2 Department of Anatomy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Gil
- 1 Department of Pathophysiology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
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17
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Manconi F, Fazleabas AT, Markham R, Fraser IS. Nerve fibre infiltration and expression in peritoneal lesions of endometriosis in a nonhuman primate model of endometriosis. JOURNAL OF ENDOMETRIOSIS AND PELVIC PAIN DISORDERS 2018. [DOI: 10.1177/2284026518810594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Baboon ( Papio anubis) models of endometriosis are thought to mimic the early stages of spontaneous human peritoneal endometriotic disease. The objective of this study was to investigate the presence and course of nerve fibre ingrowth during peritoneal lesion formation in specimens collected at 3 months (early stage of lesion development) and 15 months (late stage of lesion development) after disease initiation compared to pelvic peritoneum (control). Five-micron sections of paraffin-embedded peritoneal lesions were obtained from normally cycling baboons with 3-month (n = 12), 15-month (n = 12) induced endometriosis and pelvic peritoneum (n = 10) from baboons with no endometriosis. Immunohistochemical staining was performed with specific antibodies: protein gene product 9.5 – broad marker of nerve fibres and neurones, neuropeptide Y – sympathetic neurones, substance P – sensory neurones, vasoactive intestinal peptide – parasympathetic neurones, nerve growth factor – development of new neurones and high-affinity receptor for nerve growth factor (tropomyosin receptor kinase A) – neuronal differential. Significantly, more nerve fibres were identified in peritoneal endometriotic lesions collected 15 months after the initiation of experimental protocols compared with 3-month and control samples (p < 0.001). Nerve fibres were immunoreactive for all the tested markers – protein gene product 9.5, neuropeptide Y, substance P, vasoactive intestinal peptide, nerve growth factor and tropomyosin receptor kinase A – indicating the presence of different types of nerve fibres. In conclusion, peritoneal lesions of endometriosis in a nonhuman primate model of endometriosis were found to be progressively and spontaneously innervated by both myelinated and unmyelinated sensory nerve fibres, parasympathetic and sympathetic neurones. These nerve fibres may play an important role in the mechanisms of pain generation in this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Manconi
- Queen Elizabeth II Research Institute for Mothers and Infants, Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Neonatology, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Asgi T Fazleabas
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Robert Markham
- Queen Elizabeth II Research Institute for Mothers and Infants, Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Neonatology, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Ian S Fraser
- School of Women’s and Children’s Health and Royal Hospital for Women, University of New South Wales, Randwick, NSW, Australia
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18
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Margatho D, Mota Carvalho N, Eloy L, Bahamondes L. Assessment of biomarkers in women with endometriosis-associated pain using the ENG contraceptive implant or the 52 mg LNG-IUS: a non-inferiority randomised clinical trial. EUR J CONTRACEP REPR 2018; 23:344-350. [PMID: 30372645 DOI: 10.1080/13625187.2018.1531117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to assess the serum levels of the following biomarkers in women with endometriosis-associated pelvic pain before and after six months of using the etonogestrel (ENG) contraceptive implant or the 52 mg levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS): cancer antigen (CA)-125, cluster of differentiation (CD) 23 and endometrial nerve fibre density. METHODS The study was conducted at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Campinas Medical School, Brazil. A total of 103 women with endometriosis-associated pain diagnosed by surgery, transvaginal ultrasound and/or magnetic resonance imaging were included. Endometrial nerve fibre density and serum levels of CA-125 and soluble CD23 were assessed before and after six months of using the allocated method and were correlated to 10 cm visual analogue scale (VAS) scores for non-cyclical pelvic pain and dysmenorrhoea. RESULTS Both contraceptive methods significantly reduced concentrations of serum soluble CD23 and endometrial nerve fibre density (p < .001); however, CA-125 was significantly reduced only among users of the ENG implant (p < .05). No correlation was observed between reduction of biomarkers and improvement of VAS pain and dysmenorrhoea scores. No differences were observed between the ENG implant and the LNG-IUS. CONCLUSION Both progestin-only contraceptives significantly reduced two out of the three biomarkers evaluated. These two biomarkers could, therefore, be used as surrogate markers to follow up medical treatment of endometriosis-associated pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah Margatho
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology , University of Campinas Medical School , Campinas , Brazil
| | - Nelsilene Mota Carvalho
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology , University of Campinas Medical School , Campinas , Brazil
| | - Larissa Eloy
- b Department of Pathology , University of Campinas Medical School , Campinas , Brazil
| | - Luis Bahamondes
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology , University of Campinas Medical School , Campinas , Brazil
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19
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Giray B, Esim-Buyukbayrak E, Hallac-Keser S, Karageyim-Karsidag AY, Turkgeldi A. Comparison of Nerve Fiber Density between Patients with Uterine Leiomyoma with and without Pain: a Prospective Clinical Study. Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd 2018; 78:407-411. [PMID: 29720746 PMCID: PMC5925689 DOI: 10.1055/a-0591-1751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2018] [Revised: 03/13/2018] [Accepted: 03/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction
We aimed to compare the presence and the amount of nerve fibers in endometrial, myometrial and leiomyoma tissues using protein gene product 9.5 (PGP 9.5) and neurofilament (NF) immunohistochemical staining in uterine leiomyoma patients with and without pain complaint.
Methods
Patients undergoing hysterectomy for uterine leiomyoma were prospectively enrolled in the study. Twenty-five uterine leiomyoma patients without pelvic pain complaint (visual analog scale (VAS) < 5) were assigned to Group 1; 23 uterine leiomyoma patients with pelvic pain complaint (VAS ≥ 5) were assigned to Group 2. Endometrial, myometrial and leiomyoma tissues obtained from hysterectomy specimens were stained immunohistochemically using PGP 9.5 and NF dyes. The presence and density of nerve fibers were compared between the two groups.
Results
None of the endometrial samples in either groups stained with PGP 9.5 and NF dyes. There was no statistically significant difference in the number of nerve fibers in myometrial and leiomyoma tissues between the two groups with either of the stains (PGP 9.5: p = 0.39 and p = 0.29; NF: p = 0.83 and p = 0.65, respectively). There was agreement between PGP 9.5 and NF immunohistochemical staining for nerve fiber detection in myometrial and leiomyoma tissues (p < 0.05/κ = 0.622 and p < 0.05/κ = 0.388, respectively).
Conclusion
This study demonstrates that the quantity and density of nerve fibers in myometrial and leiomyoma tissue in patients with pain were similar to that in patients without pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Burak Giray
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Zeynep Kamil Women's and Children's Disease Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Esra Esim-Buyukbayrak
- Department of Perinatology, Marmara University Pendik Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Sevinc Hallac-Keser
- Department of Pathology, Dr. Lutfi Kirdar Kartal Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Aysegul Turkgeldi
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Dr. Lutfi Kirdar Kartal Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
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20
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Bourlev V, Moberg C, Ilyasova N, Davey E, Kunovac Kallak T, Olovsson M. Vasoactive intestinal peptide is upregulated in women with endometriosis and chronic pelvic pain. Am J Reprod Immunol 2018; 80:e12857. [PMID: 29675846 DOI: 10.1111/aji.12857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2017] [Accepted: 03/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Chronic pelvic pain (CPP) causes compromised the quality of life in women with endometriosis and is often attributed to local inflammation and ingrowth of nerve fibers. In this pilot study, we aimed to investigate whether the inflammation-related vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) and interleukin (IL)-6 were increased in affected patients. METHOD OF STUDY Endometrial and endometriotic tissue biopsy specimens, and serum and peritoneal fluid (PF) samples, were obtained from 85 endometriosis patients and 53 controls. VIP and IL-6 analysis and measurement of microvessel density in tissue were performed using immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, RT-qPCR, and ELISA. RESULTS Compared with controls, VIP transcript and protein levels were increased in endometrium from endometriosis patients and further elevated in patients with CPP. In addition, microvessel density, a measurement of angiogenic activity, was increased in the endometrium and in endometriosis lesions in the same subset of patients. Serum and PF levels of VIP and IL-6 were higher in women with endometriosis and CPP compared with endometriosis patients who reported no chronic pain. CONCLUSION Vasoactive intestinal peptide is upregulated in endometriosis patients reporting chronic pain. Increased microvessel density in tissue and peritoneal fluid concentrations of IL-6 indicate an elevated inflammation in the pelvic microenvironment of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir Bourlev
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.,National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology named after Academician V. I. Kulakov of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Christian Moberg
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Natalia Ilyasova
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.,National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology named after Academician V. I. Kulakov of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Eva Davey
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Matts Olovsson
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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21
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Schou WS, Ashina S, Amin FM, Goadsby PJ, Ashina M. Calcitonin gene-related peptide and pain: a systematic review. J Headache Pain 2017; 18:34. [PMID: 28303458 PMCID: PMC5355411 DOI: 10.1186/s10194-017-0741-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 145] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2017] [Accepted: 02/28/2017] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) is widely distributed in nociceptive pathways in human peripheral and central nervous system and its receptors are also expressed in pain pathways. CGRP is involved in migraine pathophysiology but its role in non-headache pain has not been clarified. METHODS We performed a systematic literature search on PubMed, Embase and ClinicalTrials.gov for articles on CGRP and non-headache pain covering human studies including experimental studies and randomized clinical trials. RESULTS The literature search identified 375 citations of which 50 contained relevant original data. An association between measured CGRP levels and somatic, visceral, neuropathic and inflammatory pain was found. In 13 out of 20 studies in somatic pain conditions, CGRP levels had a positive correlation with pain. Increased CGRP levels were reported in plasma, synovial and cerebrospinal fluid in subjects with musculoskeletal pain. A randomized clinical trial on monoclonal antibody, which selectively binds to and inhibits the activity of CGRP (galcanezumab) in patients with osteoarthritis knee pain, failed to demonstrate improvement of pain compared with placebo. No studies to date have investigated the efficacy of monoclonal antibodies against CGRP receptor in non-headache pain conditions. CONCLUSION The present review revealed the association between measured CGRP levels and somatic, visceral, neuropathic and inflammatory pain. These data suggest that CGRP may act as a neuromodulator in non-headache pain conditions. However, more studies are needed to fully understand the role of CGRP in nociceptive processing and therapy of chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendy Sophie Schou
- Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet Glostrup, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sait Ashina
- Department of Neurology, NYU Lutheran Headache Center, New York University School of Medicine, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Faisal Mohammad Amin
- Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet Glostrup, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Peter J Goadsby
- Basic & Clinical Neuroscience, and NIHR-Wellcome Trust King's Clinical Research Facility, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Messoud Ashina
- Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet Glostrup, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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22
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Ding S, Zhu T, Tian Y, Xu P, Chen Z, Huang X, Zhang X. Role of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor in Endometriosis Pain. Reprod Sci 2017; 25:1045-1057. [DOI: 10.1177/1933719117732161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shaojie Ding
- Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tianhong Zhu
- Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yonghong Tian
- Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ping Xu
- Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhengyun Chen
- Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiufeng Huang
- Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xinmei Zhang
- Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China
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23
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Rocha AL, Vieira EL, Ferreira MC, Maia LM, Teixeira AL, Reis FM. Plasma brain-derived neurotrophic factor in women with pelvic pain: a potential biomarker for endometriosis? Biomark Med 2017; 11:313-317. [PMID: 28290209 DOI: 10.2217/bmm-2016-0327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To test whether plasma BDNF levels are useful to predict the presence of endometriosis in women with pelvic pain. PATIENTS & METHODS Prospective cross-sectional study including 67 consecutive women aged 24-49 years, scheduled for laparoscopy due to chronic pelvic pain. Preoperative plasma samples were assayed for BDNF using a commercial enzyme immunoassay. RESULTS Women with ovarian endometrioma had higher preoperative plasma BDNF (1063 ± 157 pg/ml) compared with women with other benign ovarian tumors (537 ± 131 pg/ml, F = 2.53; p = 0.02). However, plasma BDNF levels were not helpful to indicate the presence of peritoneal or deep infiltrating endometriosis. Plasma BDNF levels were positively correlated with the severity of pelvic pain (r = 0.489; p < 0.0001). CONCLUSION Plasma BDNF might be a biomarker of ovarian endometrioma but not a useful diagnostic marker to detect other forms of endometriosis in women with painful symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana L Rocha
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Erica L Vieira
- Department of Internal Medicine, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Márcia C Ferreira
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Laura M Maia
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Antonio L Teixeira
- Department of Internal Medicine, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil.,Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Fernando M Reis
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
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24
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McAllister SL, Giourgas BK, Faircloth EK, Leishman E, Bradshaw HB, Gross ER. Prostaglandin levels, vaginal innervation, and cyst innervation as peripheral contributors to endometriosis-associated vaginal hyperalgesia in rodents. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2016; 437:120-129. [PMID: 27524411 PMCID: PMC5048574 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2016.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2016] [Revised: 07/21/2016] [Accepted: 08/09/2016] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a painful condition characterized by growth of endometrial cysts outside the uterus. Here, we tested the hypothesis that peripheral innervation and prostaglandin levels contribute to endometriosis-associated pain. Female Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 16) were surgically instrumented by transplanting uterine tissue onto mesenteric arteries within the peritoneal cavity to create a model of endometriosis which forms extra-uterine endometrial cysts and vaginal hyperalgesia. Our results describe a significant positive correlation between endometriosis-induced vaginal hyperalgesia and cyst innervation density (sensory, r = 0.70, p = 0.003; sympathetic, r = 0.55, p = 0.03), vaginal canal sympathetic innervation density (r = 0.80, p = 0.003), and peritoneal fluid levels of the prostaglandins PGE2 (r = 0.65, p = 0.01) and PGF2α (r = 0.63, p = 0.02). These results support the involvement of cyst innervation and prostaglandins in endometriosis-associated pain. We also describe how sympathetic innervation density of the vaginal canal is an important predictor of vaginal hyperalgesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacy L McAllister
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative, and Pain Medicine, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA; Program in Neuroscience, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, 32306, USA.
| | - Barbra K Giourgas
- Program in Neuroscience, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, 32306, USA
| | | | - Emma Leishman
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IA, 47405, USA
| | - Heather B Bradshaw
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IA, 47405, USA
| | - Eric R Gross
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative, and Pain Medicine, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
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25
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Yan D, Liu X, Guo SW. Nerve fibers and endometriotic lesions: partners in crime in inflicting pains in women with endometriosis. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2016; 209:14-24. [PMID: 27418559 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2016.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2016] [Revised: 06/13/2016] [Accepted: 06/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
One of major objectives in treating endometriosis is to alleviate pain since dysmenorrhea and other types of pain top the list of complaints from women with endometriosis who seek medical attention. Indeed, endometriosis-associated pain (EAP) is the most debilitating of the disease that negatively impacts on the quality of life in affected women, contributing significantly to the burden of disease and adding to the substantial personal and societal costs. Unfortunately, the mechanisms underlying the EAP are still poorly understood. In the last two decades, one active research field in endometriosis is the investigation on the distribution and genesis of nerve fibers in eutopic and ectopic endometrium, and the attempt to use endometrial nerve fiber density for diagnostic purpose. Since EAP presumably starts with the terminal sensory nerves, in or around endometriotic lesions, that transduce noxious mediators to the central nervous system (CNS) which ultimately perceives pain, this field of research holds the promise to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the EAP, thus opening new avenues for novel diagnostics and therapeutics. In this review, we shall first briefly provide some basic facts on nerve fibers, and then provide an overview of some major findings in this filed while also note some conflicting results and expose areas in need of further research. We point out that since recently accumulated evidence suggests that endometriotic lesions are wounds undergoing repeated tissue injury and repair, the relationship between endometriotic lesions and nerve fibers is not simply unidirectional, i.e. lesions promote hyperinnervations. Rather, it is bidirectional, i.e. endometriotic lesions and nerve fibers engage active cross-talks, resulting in the development of endometriosis and pain. That is, nerve fibers and endometriotic lesions are actually partners in crime in inflicting pains in women with endometriosis, aided and abetted possibly by other culprits, some yet to be identified. We provide a list of possible perpetrators likely to be involved in this crime. Finally, we discuss possible implications when viewing the relationship from this vista.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dingmin Yan
- Shanghai OB/GYN Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Xishi Liu
- Shanghai OB/GYN Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Sun-Wei Guo
- Shanghai OB/GYN Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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Kogan EA, Ovakimyan AS, Paramonova NB, Faizullina NM, Kazachenko IF, Adamyan LV. [Morphological substrate and pathogenetic mechanisms of pelvic pain syndrome in endometriosis. Part II. Peripheral nerve tissue remodeling in the foci of endometriosis]. Arkh Patol 2016; 78:20-25. [PMID: 27296002 DOI: 10.17116/patol201678320-25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Endometriosis (EM) is morphologically characterized by the development of extrauterine endometrioid heterotopies, the major clinical symptoms of which is chronic pelvic pain, which is a serious problem not only in modern gynecology, but also in public health as a whole. AIM to investigate neurogenic markers in the foci of EM of various sites and histological structure in women with and without pain syndrome. MATERIAL AND METHODS The investigation was performed using the operative material (resected segments of the intestine, bladder, rectovaginal septum, and small pelvic peritoneum) obtained from 52 women with an intraoperative and morphologically verified diagnosis of EM and (Group 1) and without (Group 2) pain syndrome. Immunohistochemical examination was made on paraffin-embedded tissue sections in accordance with the standard protocols, by using the antibodies: 1) anti-PGP 9.5 polyclonal rabbit antibodies; 2) mouse anti-human neurofilament (NF) protein monoclonal antibodies (Clone 2F1); 3) mouse anti-nerve growth factor (NGF) monoclonal antibodies; 4) monoclonal mouse anti-human NGF receptor p75 (NGFRp75) antibodies (Dako, Denmark). RESULTS Our findings demonstrate differences in the expression of PGP 9.5, NFs, NGF, and NGFRp75 in the foci and adjacent tissue in painful and painless EM irrespective of the locations of heterotopies. CONCLUSION The found molecular features are a manifestation of the remodeling of nerve fibers and nerve endings in the foci of EM and PGP9.5, NGF, and NGFRp75 give rise to nerve fiber neoformation and pain syndrome in EM. At the same time, the immunohistochemical phenotype of EM foci does not depend on their site and reflects the presence or absence of pain syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- E A Kogan
- I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - A S Ovakimyan
- Academician V.I. Kulakov Research Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology, Ministry of Health of Russia, Moscow, Russia
| | - N B Paramonova
- I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - N M Faizullina
- Academician V.I. Kulakov Research Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology, Ministry of Health of Russia, Moscow, Russia
| | - I F Kazachenko
- Academician V.I. Kulakov Research Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology, Ministry of Health of Russia, Moscow, Russia
| | - L V Adamyan
- Academician V.I. Kulakov Research Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology, Ministry of Health of Russia, Moscow, Russia
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Gupta D, Hull ML, Fraser I, Miller L, Bossuyt PMM, Johnson N, Nisenblat V. Endometrial biomarkers for the non-invasive diagnosis of endometriosis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2016; 4:CD012165. [PMID: 27094925 PMCID: PMC6953323 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd012165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND About 10% of reproductive-aged women suffer from endometriosis, which is a costly, chronic disease that causes pelvic pain and subfertility. Laparoscopy is the gold standard diagnostic test for endometriosis, but it is expensive and carries surgical risks. Currently, there are no non-invasive tests available in clinical practice that accurately diagnose endometriosis. This is the first diagnostic test accuracy review of endometrial biomarkers for endometriosis that utilises Cochrane methodologies, providing an update on the rapidly expanding literature in this field. OBJECTIVES To determine the diagnostic accuracy of the endometrial biomarkers for pelvic endometriosis, using a surgical diagnosis as the reference standard. We evaluated the tests as replacement tests for diagnostic surgery and as triage tests to inform decisions to undertake surgery for endometriosis. SEARCH METHODS We did not restrict the searches to particular study designs, language or publication dates. To identify trials, we searched the following databases: CENTRAL (2015, July), MEDLINE (inception to May 2015), EMBASE (inception to May 2015), CINAHL (inception to April 2015), PsycINFO (inception to April 2015), Web of Science (inception to April 2015), LILACS (inception to April 2015), OAIster (inception to April 2015), TRIP (inception to April 2015) and ClinicalTrials.gov (inception to April 2015). We searched DARE and PubMed databases up to April 2015 to identify reviews and guidelines as sources of references to potentially relevant studies. We also performed searches for papers recently published and not yet indexed in the major databases. The search strategies incorporated words in the title, abstract, text words across the record and the medical subject headings (MeSH). SELECTION CRITERIA We considered published peer-reviewed, randomised controlled or cross-sectional studies of any size that included prospectively collected samples from any population of reproductive-aged women suspected of having one or more of the following target conditions: ovarian, peritoneal or deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE). DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two authors independently extracted data from each study and performed a quality assessment. For each endometrial diagnostic test, we classified the data as positive or negative for the surgical detection of endometriosis and calculated the estimates of sensitivity and specificity. We considered two or more tests evaluated in the same cohort as separate data sets. We used the bivariate model to obtain pooled estimates of sensitivity and specificity whenever sufficient data were available. The predetermined criteria for a clinically useful test to replace diagnostic surgery was one with a sensitivity of 94% and a specificity of 79%. The criteria for triage tests were set at sensitivity at or above 95% and specificity at or above 50%, which in case of negative results rules out the diagnosis (SnOUT test) or sensitivity at or above 50% with specificity at or above 95%, which in case of positive result rules in the diagnosis (SpIN test). MAIN RESULTS We included 54 studies involving 2729 participants, most of which were of poor methodological quality. The studies evaluated endometrial biomarkers either in specific phases of the menstrual cycle or outside of it, and the studies tested the biomarkers either in menstrual fluid, in whole endometrial tissue or in separate endometrial components. Twenty-seven studies evaluated the diagnostic performance of 22 endometrial biomarkers for endometriosis. These were angiogenesis and growth factors (PROK-1), cell-adhesion molecules (integrins α3β1, α4β1, β1 and α6), DNA-repair molecules (hTERT), endometrial and mitochondrial proteome, hormonal markers (CYP19, 17βHSD2, ER-α, ER-β), inflammatory markers (IL-1R2), myogenic markers (caldesmon, CALD-1), neural markers (PGP 9.5, VIP, CGRP, SP, NPY, NF) and tumour markers (CA-125). Most of these biomarkers were assessed in single studies, whilst only data for PGP 9.5 and CYP19 were available for meta-analysis. These two biomarkers demonstrated significant diversity for the diagnostic estimates between the studies; however, the data were too limited to reliably determine the sources of heterogeneity. The mean sensitivities and specificities of PGP 9.5 (7 studies, 361 women) were 0.96 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.91 to 1.00) and 0.86 (95% CI 0.70 to 1.00), after excluding one outlier study, and for CYP19 (8 studies, 444 women), they were were 0.77 (95% CI 0.70 to 0.85) and 0.74 (95% CI 0.65 to 84), respectively. We could not statistically evaluate other biomarkers in a meaningful way. An additional 31 studies evaluated 77 biomarkers that showed no evidence of differences in expression levels between the groups of women with and without endometriosis. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS We could not statistically evaluate most of the biomarkers assessed in this review in a meaningful way. In view of the low quality of most of the included studies, the findings of this review should be interpreted with caution. Although PGP 9.5 met the criteria for a replacement test, it demonstrated considerable inter study heterogeneity in diagnostic estimates, the source of which could not be determined. Several endometrial biomarkers, such as endometrial proteome, 17βHSD2, IL-1R2, caldesmon and other neural markers (VIP, CGRP, SP, NPY and combination of VIP, PGP 9.5 and SP) showed promising evidence of diagnostic accuracy, but there was insufficient or poor quality evidence for any clinical recommendations. Laparoscopy remains the gold standard for the diagnosis of endometriosis, and using any non-invasive tests should only be undertaken in a research setting. We have also identified a number of biomarkers that demonstrated no diagnostic value for endometriosis. We recommend that researchers direct future studies towards biomarkers with high diagnostic potential in good quality diagnostic studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - M Louise Hull
- The University of AdelaideDiscipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Robinson Research InstituteKing William RoadAdelaideSouth AustrailaAustralia
| | - Ian Fraser
- University of New South WalesSchool of Women's and Children's Health, Royal Hospital for WomenBarker StSydneyNSWAustralia2131
| | - Laura Miller
- Fertility PlusDepartment of Obstetrics and GynaecologyAuckland District Health BoardAucklandNew Zealand1142
| | - Patrick MM Bossuyt
- Academic Medical Center, University of AmsterdamDepartment of Clinical Epidemiology, Biostatistics and BioinformaticsRoom J1b‐217, PO Box 22700AmsterdamNetherlands1100 DE
| | - Neil Johnson
- The University of AdelaideDiscipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Robinson Research InstituteKing William RoadAdelaideSouth AustrailaAustralia
| | - Vicki Nisenblat
- The University of AdelaideDiscipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Robinson Research InstituteKing William RoadAdelaideSouth AustrailaAustralia
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de Ziegler D, Pirtea P, Galliano D, Cicinelli E, Meldrum D. Optimal uterine anatomy and physiology necessary for normal implantation and placentation. Fertil Steril 2016; 105:844-54. [PMID: 26926252 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2016.02.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2015] [Revised: 02/02/2016] [Accepted: 02/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The authors review aberrations of uterine anatomy and physiology affecting pregnancy outcomes with IVF. In the case of endometriosis and hydrosalpinx, pathologies outside of the uterus alter the uterine endometrium. In the case of endometriosis, Dominique de Ziegler outlines the numerous changes in gene expression and the central role of inflammation in causing progesterone resistance. With endometriosis, the absence of ovarian function inherent in deferred transfer, with or without a more lengthy suppression of ovarian function, appears to be sufficient to restore normal function of eutopic endometrium. Because laparoscopy is no longer routine in the evaluation of infertility, unrecognized endometriosis then becomes irrelevant in the context of assisted reproductive technology. With hydrosalpinx and submucus myomas, the implantation factor HOXA-10 is suppressed in the endometrium and, with myomas, even in areas of the uterus not directly affected. Daniela Galliano reviews various uterine pathologies, the most enigmatic being adenomyosis, where the endometrium also manifests many of the changes seen in endometriosis and deferred transfer with extended suppression appears to provide the best outcomes. Ettore Cicinelli's group has extensively studied the diagnosis and treatment of endometritis, and although more definitive diagnosis and care of this covert disorder may await techniques such as sequencing of the endometrial microbiome, it undoubtedly is an important factor in implantation failure, deserving our attention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominique de Ziegler
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Medicine, Université Paris Descartes, Paris Sorbonne Cité-Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, CHU Cochin, Paris, France.
| | - Paul Pirtea
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Medicine, Université Paris Descartes, Paris Sorbonne Cité-Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, CHU Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Daniela Galliano
- Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad (IVI), Rome, Italy and Barcelona, Spain; IVI Foundation, Valencia, Spain
| | - Ettore Cicinelli
- 2nd Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Biomedical and Human Oncologic Science, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - David Meldrum
- Reproductive Partners San Diego, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, University of California, San Diego, California
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29
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Ellett L, Readman E, Newman M, McIlwaine K, Villegas R, Jagasia N, Maher P. Are endometrial nerve fibres unique to endometriosis? A prospective case-control study of endometrial biopsy as a diagnostic test for endometriosis in women with pelvic pain. Hum Reprod 2015; 30:2808-15. [PMID: 26472151 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dev259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2015] [Accepted: 09/22/2015] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can the presence of endometrial nerve fibres be used as a diagnostic test for endometriosis in women with pelvic pain? SUMMARY ANSWER Endometrial fine nerve fibres were seen in the endometrium of women both with and without endometriosis, making their detection a poor diagnostic tool for endometriosis. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Laparoscopy and biopsy are currently the gold standard for making a diagnosis of endometriosis. It has been reported that small density nerve fibres in the functional layer of the endometrium are unique to women with endometriosis and hence nerve fibre detection could function as a less invasive diagnostic test of endometriosis. However, it may be that other painful conditions of the pelvis are also associated with these nerve fibres. We therefore focused this prospective study on women with pelvic pain to examine the efficacy of endometrial nerve fibre detection as a diagnostic test for endometriosis. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This prospective case-control study conducted between July 2009 and July 2013 included 44 women with pelvic pain undergoing laparoscopic examination for the diagnosis of endometriosis. Immunohistochemical nerve fibre detection in endometrial curettings and biopsies using anti-protein gene product 9.5 was compared with surgical diagnosis. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTINGS, METHODS Paired endometrial biopsies and curettings were taken from patients with (n = 22, study group) and without (n = 22, control group) endometriosis. Tissue was analysed by immunohistochemistry and nerve fibres were counted whenever they were present in the functional layer of the endometrium. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Fine nerve fibres were present in the eutopic endometrium of patients both with and without endometriosis. The presence of nerve fibres in curettings was not effective for either diagnosing or excluding endometriosis; sensitivity and specificity were 31.8 and 45.5% respectively, positive predictive value was 36.8% and negative predictive value was 40.0%. Few endometrial biopsy specimens were found to have nerve fibres present; sensitivity and specificity for endometrial biopsy were 13.6 and 68.2% respectively, positive predictive value was 30.0% and negative predictive value was 44.1%. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This was a relatively small sample size and studies like this are subject to the heterogeneous nature of the patient population and tissue samples, despite our best efforts to regulate these parameters. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our results demonstrate that fine nerve fibres are present in women with and without endometriosis. Future work should focus on the function of endometrial nerves and whether these nerves are involved with the subfertility or pain that endometriosis sufferers experience. Our study does not support the detection of endometrial nerve fibres as a non-invasive diagnostic test of endometriosis in women with pelvic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lenore Ellett
- Department of Endosurgery, Mercy Hospital for Women, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Emma Readman
- Department of Endosurgery, Mercy Hospital for Women, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Marsali Newman
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, Austin Hospital, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kate McIlwaine
- Department of Endosurgery, Mercy Hospital for Women, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rocio Villegas
- Department of Endosurgery, Mercy Hospital for Women, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nisha Jagasia
- Department of Endosurgery, Mercy Hospital for Women, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter Maher
- Department of Endosurgery, Mercy Hospital for Women, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
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Palmer SS, Altan M, Denis D, Tos EG, Gotteland JP, Osteen KG, Bruner-Tran KL, Nataraja SG. Bentamapimod (JNK Inhibitor AS602801) Induces Regression of Endometriotic Lesions in Animal Models. Reprod Sci 2015; 23:11-23. [PMID: 26335175 DOI: 10.1177/1933719115600553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis is an estrogen (ER)-dependent gynecological disease caused by the growth of endometrial tissue at extrauterine sites. Current endocrine therapies address the estrogenic aspect of disease and offer some relief from pain but are associated with significant side effects. Immune dysfunction is also widely believed to be an underlying contributor to the pathogenesis of this disease. This study evaluated an inhibitor of c-Jun N-terminal kinase, bentamapimod (AS602801), which interrupts immune pathways, in 2 rodent endometriosis models. Treatment of nude mice bearing xenografts biopsied from women with endometriosis (BWE) with 30 mg/kg AS602801 caused 29% regression of lesion. Medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) or progesterone (PR) alone did not cause regression of BWE lesions, but combining 10 mg/kg AS602801 with MPA caused 38% lesion regression. In human endometrial organ cultures (from healthy women), treatment with AS602801 or MPA reduced matrix metalloproteinase-3 (MMP-3) release into culture medium. In organ cultures established with BWE, PR or MPA failed to inhibit MMP-3 secretion, whereas AS602801 alone or MPA + AS602801 suppressed MMP-3 production. In an autologous rat endometriosis model, AS602801 caused 48% regression of lesions compared to GnRH antagonist Antide (84%). AS602801 reduced inflammatory cytokines in endometriotic lesions, while levels of cytokines in ipsilateral horns were unaffected. Furthermore, AS602801 enhanced natural killer cell activity, without apparent negative effects on uterus. These results indicate that bentamapimod induced regression of endometriotic lesions in endometriosis rodent animal models without suppressing ER action. c-Jun N-terminal kinase inhibition mediated a comprehensive reduction in cytokine secretion and moreover was able to overcome PR resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen S Palmer
- EMD Serono Research Institute, Billerica, MA, USA TocopheRx, Inc, Burlington, MA, USA
| | - Melis Altan
- EMD Serono Research Institute, Billerica, MA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Kevin G Osteen
- Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | | | - Selvaraj G Nataraja
- EMD Serono Research Institute, Billerica, MA, USA TocopheRx, Inc, Burlington, MA, USA
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Abstract
Several lines of recent evidence suggest that pelvic innervation is altered in endometriosis-affected women, and there is a strong presumption that nerve fibers demonstrated in eutopic endometrium (of women with endometriosis) and in endometriotic lesions play roles in the generation of chronic pelvic pain. The recent observation of sensory C, sensory A-delta, sympathetic and parasympathetic nerve fibers in the functional layer of endometrium of most women affected by endometriosis, but not demonstrated in most women who do not have endometriosis, was a surprise. Nerve fiber densities were also greatly increased in myometrium of women with endometriosis and in endometriotic lesions compared with normal peritoneum. Chronic pelvic pain is complex, and endometriosis is only one condition which contributes to this pain. The relationship between the presence of certain nerve fibers and the potential for local pain generation requires much future research. This paper reviews current knowledge concerning nerve fibers in endometrium, myometrium and endometriotic lesions, and discusses avenues of research that may improve our knowledge and lead to enriched understanding and management of endometriotic pain symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily J Miller
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology & Neonatology, Queen Elizabeth II Research Institute for Mothers & Infants, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ian S Fraser
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology & Neonatology, Queen Elizabeth II Research Institute for Mothers & Infants, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Women's & Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
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The Impact of Endometriosis across the Lifespan of Women: Foreseeable Research and Therapeutic Prospects. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 2015:158490. [PMID: 26064879 PMCID: PMC4438168 DOI: 10.1155/2015/158490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2014] [Accepted: 01/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
In addition to estrogen dependence, endometriosis is characterized by chronic pelvic inflammation. The impact of the chronic pelvic inflammatory state on other organ systems and women's health is unclear. Endometriosis associated chronic inflammation and potential adverse health effects across the lifespan render it imperative for renewed research vigor into the identification of novel biomarkers of disease and therapeutic options. Herein we propose a number of opportunities for research and development of new therapeutics to address the unmet needs in the treatment of endometriosis per se and its ancillary risks for other diseases in women across the lifespan.
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Tarjanne S, Ng CH, Manconi F, Arola J, Mentula M, Maneck B, Fraser IS, Heikinheimo O. Use of hormonal therapy is associated with reduced nerve fiber density in deep infiltrating, rectovaginal endometriosis. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2015; 94:693-700. [DOI: 10.1111/aogs.12652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2014] [Accepted: 04/05/2015] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Satu Tarjanne
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital; Helsinki Finland
| | - Cecilia H.M. Ng
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Neonatology; Queen Elizabeth II Research Institute for Mothers and Infants; University of Sydney; Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - Frank Manconi
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Neonatology; Queen Elizabeth II Research Institute for Mothers and Infants; University of Sydney; Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - Johanna Arola
- Department of Pathology; Haartman Institute; University of Helsinki and HUSLAB; Helsinki Finland
| | - Maarit Mentula
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital; Helsinki Finland
| | - Bharvi Maneck
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Neonatology; Queen Elizabeth II Research Institute for Mothers and Infants; University of Sydney; Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - Ian S. Fraser
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Neonatology; Queen Elizabeth II Research Institute for Mothers and Infants; University of Sydney; Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - Oskari Heikinheimo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital; Helsinki Finland
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Chen Y, Li D, Zhang Z, Takushige N, Kong BH, Wang GY. Effect of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells transplantation on nerve fibers of a rat model of endometriosis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FERTILITY & STERILITY 2015; 9:71-80. [PMID: 25918595 PMCID: PMC4410040 DOI: 10.22074/ijfs.2015.4211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2013] [Accepted: 01/06/2014] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Background Endometriosis is a common, benign, oestrogen-dependent, chronic gynaecological disorder associated with pelvic pain and infertility. Some researchers have
identified nerve fibers in endometriotic lesions in women with endometriosis. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have attracted interest for their possible use for both cell and
gene therapies because of their capacity for self-renewal and multipotentiality of differentiation. We investigated how human umbilical cord-MSCs (hUC-MSCs) could affect
nerve fibers density in endometriosis. Materials and Methods In this experimental study, hUC-MSCs were isolated from
fresh human umbilical cord, characterized by flow cytometry, and then transplanted into
surgically induced endometriosis in a rat model. Ectopic endometrial implants were collected four weeks later. The specimens were sectioned and stained immunohistochemically with antibodies against neurofilament (NF), nerve growth factor (NGF), NGF
receptor p75 (NGFRp75), tyrosine kinase receptor-A (Trk-A), calcitonin gene-related
peptide (CGRP) and substance P (SP) to compare the presence of different types of nerve
fibers between the treatment group with the transplantation of hUC-MSCs and the control
group without the transplantation of hUC-MSCs. Results There were significantly less nerve fibers stained with specific markers we
used in the treatment group than in the control group (p<0.05). Conclusion MSC from human umbilical cord reduced nerve fiber density in the treatment group with the transplantation of hUC-MSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of the Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China
| | - Dong Li
- Cryomedicine Laboratory, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Zhe Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Natsuko Takushige
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Bei-Hua Kong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Guo-Yun Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
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Mónica Brauer M, Smith PG. Estrogen and female reproductive tract innervation: cellular and molecular mechanisms of autonomic neuroplasticity. Auton Neurosci 2014; 187:1-17. [PMID: 25530517 DOI: 10.1016/j.autneu.2014.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2014] [Revised: 11/18/2014] [Accepted: 11/20/2014] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The female reproductive tract undergoes remarkable functional and structural changes associated with cycling, conception and pregnancy, and it is likely advantageous to both individual and species to alter relationships between reproductive tissues and innervation. For several decades, it has been appreciated that the mammalian uterus undergoes massive sympathetic axon depletion in late pregnancy, possibly representing an adaptation to promote smooth muscle quiescence and sustained blood flow. Innervation to other structures such as cervix and vagina also undergo pregnancy-related changes in innervation that may facilitate parturition. These tissues provide highly tractable models for examining cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying peripheral nervous system plasticity. Studies show that estrogen elicits rapid degeneration of sympathetic terminal axons in myometrium, which regenerate under low-estrogen conditions. Degeneration is mediated by the target tissue: under estrogen's influence, the myometrium produces proteins repulsive to sympathetic axons including BDNF, neurotrimin, semaphorins, and pro-NGF, and extracellular matrix components are remodeled. Interestingly, nerve depletion does not involve diminished levels of classical sympathetic neurotrophins that promote axon growth. Estrogen also affects sympathetic neuron neurotrophin receptor expression in ways that appear to favor pro-degenerative effects of the target tissue. In contrast to the uterus, estrogen depletes vaginal autonomic and nociceptive axons, with the latter driven in part by estrogen-induced suppression of BMP4 synthesis. These findings illustrate that hormonally mediated physiological plasticity is a highly complex phenomenon involving multiple, predominantly repulsive target-derived factors acting in concert to achieve rapid and selective reductions in innervation.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Mónica Brauer
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable, Montevideo 11600, Uruguay.
| | - Peter G Smith
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, United States; Institute for Neurological Discoveries, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, United States.
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Fassbender A, Rahmioglu N, Vitonis AF, Viganò P, Giudice LC, D'Hooghe TM, Hummelshoj L, Adamson GD, Becker CM, Missmer SA, Zondervan KT. World Endometriosis Research Foundation Endometriosis Phenome and Biobanking Harmonisation Project: IV. Tissue collection, processing, and storage in endometriosis research. Fertil Steril 2014; 102:1244-53. [PMID: 25256928 PMCID: PMC4230778 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.07.1209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2014] [Revised: 07/09/2014] [Accepted: 07/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To harmonize standard operating procedures (SOPs) and standardize the recording of associated data for collection, processing, and storage of human tissues relevant to endometriosis. DESIGN An international collaboration involving 34 clinical/academic centers and three industry collaborators from 16 countries on five continents. SETTING In 2013, two workshops were conducted followed by global consultation, bringing together 54 leaders in endometriosis research and sample processing from around the world. PATIENT(S) None. INTERVENTION(S) Consensus SOPs were based on: 1) systematic comparison of SOPs from 24 global centers collecting tissue samples from women with and without endometriosis on a medium or large scale (publication on >100 cases); 2) literature evidence where available, or consultation with laboratory experts otherwise; and 3) several global consultation rounds. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Standard recommended and minimum required SOPs for tissue collection, processing, and storage in endometriosis research. RESULT(S) We developed "recommended standard" and "minimum required" SOPs for the collection, processing, and storage of ectopic and eutopic endometrium, peritoneum, and myometrium, and a biospecimen data collection form necessary for interpretation of sample-derived results. CONCLUSION(S) The EPHect SOPs allow endometriosis research centers to decrease variability in tissue-based results, facilitating between-center comparisons and collaborations. The procedures are also relevant to research into other gynecologic conditions involving endometrium, myometrium, and peritoneum. The consensus SOPs are based on the best available evidence; areas with limited evidence are identified as requiring further pilot studies. The SOPs will be reviewed based on investigator feedback and through systematic triannual follow-up. Updated versions will be made available at: http://endometriosisfoundation.org/ephect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amelie Fassbender
- Organ Systems, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Leuven University Fertility Center, University Hospital Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Nilufer Rahmioglu
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Allison F Vitonis
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Boston Center for Endometriosis, Boston Children's Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Paola Viganò
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milano, Italy
| | - Linda C Giudice
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California; World Endometriosis Research Foundation (WERF), London, United Kingdom
| | - Thomas M D'Hooghe
- Organ Systems, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Leuven University Fertility Center, University Hospital Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lone Hummelshoj
- World Endometriosis Research Foundation (WERF), London, United Kingdom
| | - G David Adamson
- World Endometriosis Research Foundation (WERF), London, United Kingdom; Palo Alto Medical Foundation Fertility Physicians of Northern California, Palo Alto, California
| | - Christian M Becker
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; Endometriosis Care Centre Oxford, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Stacey A Missmer
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Boston Center for Endometriosis, Boston Children's Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Epidemiology, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Krina T Zondervan
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; Endometriosis Care Centre Oxford, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.
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Morotti M, Vincent K, Brawn J, Zondervan KT, Becker CM. Peripheral changes in endometriosis-associated pain. Hum Reprod Update 2014; 20:717-36. [PMID: 24859987 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmu021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pain remains the cardinal symptom of endometriosis. However, to date, the underlying mechanisms are still only poorly understood. Increasing evidence points towards a close interaction between peripheral nerves, the peritoneal environment and the central nervous system in pain generation and processing. Recently, studies demonstrating nerve fibres and neurotrophic and angiogenic factors in endometriotic lesions and their vicinity have led to increased interest in peripheral changes in endometriosis-associated pain. This review focuses on the origin and function of these nerves and factors as well as possible peripheral mechanisms that may contribute to the generation and modulation of pain in women with endometriosis. METHODS We conducted a systematic search using several databases (PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE and CINAHL) of publications from January 1977 to October 2013 to evaluate the possible roles of the peripheral nervous system in endometriosis pathophysiology and how it can contribute to endometriosis-associated pain. RESULTS Endometriotic lesions and peritoneal fluid from women with endometriosis had pronounced neuroangiogenic properties with increased expression of new nerve fibres, a shift in the distribution of sensory and autonomic fibres in some locations, and up-regulation of several neurotrophins. In women suffering from deep infiltrating endometriosis and bowel endometriosis, in which the anatomical distribution of lesions is generally more closely related to pelvic pain symptoms, endometriotic lesions and surrounding tissues present higher nerve fibre densities compared with peritoneal lesions and endometriomas. More data are needed to fully confirm a direct correlation between fibre density in these locations and the amount of perceived pain. A better correlation between the presence of nerve fibres and pain symptoms seems to exist for eutopic endometrium. However, this appears not to be exclusive to endometriosis. No correlation between elevated neurotrophin levels and pain severity appears to exist, suggesting the involvement of other mediators in the modulation of pain. CONCLUSIONS The increased expression of neurotrophic factors and nerve fibres in endometriotic lesions, eutopic endometrium and the peritoneum imply a role of such peripheral changes in the pathogenesis of endometriosis-associated pain. However, a clear link between these findings and pain in patients with endometriosis has so far not been demonstrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Morotti
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Genoa, Genoa 16100, Italy
| | - Katy Vincent
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Jennifer Brawn
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Krina T Zondervan
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7BN, UK
| | - Christian M Becker
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
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Al-Jefout M, Tokushige N, Hey-Cunningham AJ, Manconi F, Ng C, Schulke L, Berbic M, Markham R, Fraser IS. Microanatomy and function of the eutopic endometrium in women with endometriosis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.1586/17474108.4.1.61] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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Chen Y, Li D, Zhang Z, Takushige N, Kong BH, Wang GY. Effect of siRNA against β-NGF on nerve fibers of a rat model with endometriosis. Reprod Sci 2013; 21:329-39. [PMID: 23885099 DOI: 10.1177/1933719113497279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study examines whether silencing specific β-nerve growth factor small interfering RNA (β-NGF siRNA) can affect the growth of ectopic endometriotic implants, generalized hyperalgesia, and nerve fiber density in endometriosis. METHODS Four specific β-NGF siRNAs were detected by Western blot analysis, and the most efficient specific siRNA was transferred into rats with surgically induced endometriosis through gene transfer. The length × width × height of each ectopic transplant that survived from 2 groups were measured at pre-and postbombardment after 2 weeks. The transplants were collected 2 weeks after bombardment. Warm-water tail flick test was performed before the rats were sacrificed. The specimens were sectioned and stained immunohistochemically with antibodies against the types of nerve fibers to compare the presence of different nerve fibers in the treatment and control groups. The serums and supernatants of the peritoneal washings in the treatment and control groups were collected for enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) analysis. The extra rats were successfully induced with endometriosis and through gene transfer as described above. The spherical volumes of the transplants and tail flick latency post-bombardment after 4, 6, 8, and 10 weeks were measured. RESULTS The spherical volumes in the treatment group were much smaller than those in the control group, and tail flick latency significantly increased in the treatment group postbombardment after 2 weeks. The ELISA analysis showed that the concentrations of β-NGF in the serums and supernatants of the peritoneal fluid decreased in the treatment group unlike in the control group. Less sympathetic and sensory innervation was observed in the treatment group postbombardment after 2 weeks. The outcomes of the spherical volumes of the transplants and tail flick latency postbombardment after 4, 6, 8, and 10 weeks showed that the sizes of the transplants did not return to their previous size and that the treatment had some effects on generalized hyperalgesia. CONCLUSION Specific siRNA-mediated silencing of the β-NGF gene expression after gene transfer suppressed the growth of ectopic endometriotic implants resulted in a significant improvement in generalized hyperalgesia as well as reduced sympathetic and sensory nerve fiber density in the treatment group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Chen
- 1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
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Newman TA, Bailey JL, Stocker LJ, Woo YL, Macklon NS, Cheong YC. Expression of neuronal markers in the endometrium of women with and those without endometriosis. Hum Reprod 2013; 28:2502-10. [PMID: 23820422 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/det274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION How do the expression patterns of neuronal markers differ in the endometrium of women with and without endometriosis? SUMMARY ANSWER The neuronal markers, PGP9.5, NGFp75 and VR1, are expressed in the endometrium at levels that do not differ between women with and without endometriosis. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Aberrant neuronal growth within the uterus may contribute to abnormal fertility and uterine dysfunction. However, controversy still exists as to whether aberrant innervation in the endometrium is associated with gynaecological pathology such as endometriosis. This may reflect the use of subjective methods such as histology to assess the innervation of the endometrium. We, therefore, employed a quantitative method, western blotting, to study markers of endometrial innervation in the presence and absence of endometriosis. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This study included 45 women undergoing laparoscopic examination for the diagnosis of endometriosis. Endometrial samples were analysed by western blot for the expression of neuronal and neurotrophic markers, PGP9.5, VR1 and NGFp75. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTINGS, METHODS Endometrial pipelle biopsies were obtained from patients with (n = 20, study group) and without (n = 25, control group) endometriosis. Tissue was analysed by immunohistochemistry and western blot analysis for the expression of pan-neuronal marker, PGP9.5, sensory nociceptive marker, TPVR1, and low-affinity neurotrophic growth factor receptor, NGFRp75. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE PGP9.5, NGFp75 and VR1 were expressed in the endometrium of women, independent of the presence of endometriosis. Furthermore, the expression level of PGP9.5, VR1 and NGFp75 did not alter between the two cohorts of women. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Studies of this nature are subject to the heterogeneous nature of patient population and tissue samples despite attempts to standardize these parameters. Hence, further studies using similar methodology will be required to confirm our results. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our results highlight that sensory neuronal markers are present in women with and without endometriosis. Future work will assess what the targets of the endometrial nerves are and investigate their function, their impact on endometrial biology and, in particular, whether aberrant neuronal function, rather than the mere presence of neuronal function, could be the root cause of subfertility and/or pain affecting many endometriosis sufferers. Our results do not, however, confirm the previous paradigm of increased innervation in the endometrium of women with endometriosis, nor the use of nerve cell detection from pipelle biopsies to diagnose endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- T A Newman
- CES, Medicine, Institute of Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
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Zhu L, Chen J, Sun Y, Huang X, Xu H, Zhang X. Loss of nerve fibers in the oviduct isthmus in women with hydrosalpinx. Acta Histochem 2013; 115:609-15. [PMID: 23622972 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2013.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2012] [Revised: 01/09/2013] [Accepted: 01/10/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Apart from the abnormalities of tubal anatomy, the main concern linked to infertility is impaired tubal motility associated with hydrosalpinx, which is thought to be controlled by hormones and nerves. The objective of this study was to determine the distribution of nerve fibers in the oviduct isthmus in women with and without hydrosalpinx. Histological sections of the oviduct isthmus tissue were obtained from 18 women undergoing salpingectomy for hydrosalpinx, and from 15 women undergoing hysterectomy and salpingectomy for benign gynecologic diseases. The tissues were immunohistochemically stained for protein gene product (PGP) 9.5, protein S100, neuropeptide tyrosine (NPY), and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) to reveal all nerve fibers, as well as sympathetic and parasympathetic nerve fibers, in the oviduct isthmus. We detected the presence of PGP9.5, S100, VIP, and NPY-immunoreactive nerve fibers in the oviduct isthmus in all study subjects. However, the densities of PGP9.5, S100, VIP, and NPY-immunoreactive nerve fibers in the oviduct isthmus were all significantly decreased in women with hydrosalpinx compared with those in women without hydrosalpinx (P<0.01). Our results suggest that reduced nerve fibers in the oviduct isthmus in women with hydrosalpinx compared with women without hydrosalpinx may have an important function in the mechanism of hydrosalpinx-associated infertility.
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Yuan X, Richmond MN, Leng Y, Li TC. Does postoperative pain predict the outcome of endometrial ablation? J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2013; 39:1319-23. [PMID: 23799919 DOI: 10.1111/jog.12064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2012] [Accepted: 12/03/2012] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
AIM In this article, we hypothesized that significant pain in the immediate postoperative period is due to a deeper degree of thermal ablation, down to the myometrial layer, and consequently an increased likelihood of successful outcome. MATERIAL AND METHODS We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 87 subjects who underwent thermal balloon endometrial ablation as the sole procedure under general anesthesia, administered by the same anesthetist using a standard protocol over a 10-year period from 2000 to 2010 at Thornbury Hospital, Sheffield, UK. All the cases were performed by the same surgeon in one hospital. RESULTS Twenty-eight (32.2%) subjects experienced severe or intractable pain within 1 h after the thermal balloon endometrial ablation procedure, while 26 (29.9%) subjects required morphine injection in the postoperative period. Overall, more than 70% of women experienced significant reduction in their menstrual flow. There was no difference in the clinical outcome between those who did or did not experience severe pain or between those who did or did not require morphine injection in the postoperative period. CONCLUSION The amount of postoperative pain did not predict the outcome of thermal balloon endometrial ablation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Yuan
- Jessop Wing, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals, National Health Service Trust, Sheffield, UK
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Hey-Cunningham A, Markham R, Fraser I, Berbic M. Dysregulation of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors and Their Neuropilin Receptors in the Eutopic Endometrium of Women With Endometriosis. Reprod Sci 2013; 20:1382-9. [DOI: 10.1177/1933719113485299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A.J. Hey-Cunningham
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Neonatology, Queen Elizabeth II Research Institute for Mothers and Infants, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - R. Markham
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Neonatology, Queen Elizabeth II Research Institute for Mothers and Infants, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - I.S. Fraser
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Neonatology, Queen Elizabeth II Research Institute for Mothers and Infants, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - M. Berbic
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Neonatology, Queen Elizabeth II Research Institute for Mothers and Infants, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Nerve Fibers are Absent in Disease-Free and Eutopic Endometrium, but Present in Endometriotic (Especially Deep) Lesions. JOURNAL OF ENDOMETRIOSIS AND PELVIC PAIN DISORDERS 2013. [DOI: 10.5301/je.5000155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Objective Detection of nerve fibers in endometrial biopsies was recently proposed as a noninvasive diagnostic tool for endometriosis. However, their occurrence in the functional layer of endometrium still remains controversial. Nerve fibers were found to be present in endometriotic lesions themselves, which may account for some of the pain experienced by patients, but their origin is not clear. The objective of the present study was to reevaluate the presence of nerve fibers in endometrium and in different types of endometriotic lesions. Patients and Methods Nerve fiber density (PGP9.5 immunohistochemical analysis), unmyelinated nerve fiber presence (neurofilament immunohistochemical detection) and nerve growth factor expression were evaluated in endometrial (disease free: n = 20; endometriotic: n = 26) and endometriotic (peritoneal lesions: n = 11; ovarian lesions: n = 16; rectovaginal lesions: n = 27) samples. Results Endometrial biopsies were found to be mostly negative for nerve fibers. Nerve fiber density was higher in deep nodular lesions than in peritoneal (p<0.01) or ovarian (p<0.001) lesions. Around 30% of PGP9.5-positive nerve fibers were confirmed by neurofilament staining. Nerve growth factor expression was detected at higher levels in the stroma of deep-infiltrating lesions (p<0.05). Conclusions No nerve fibers were detected in endometrial biopsies (from healthy or endometriosis patients). However, nerve fibers were detected in endometriotic lesions. Most of them were found to be unmyelinated, suggesting they could be implicated in pain. Deep nodular lesions may be more neuroattractive through the action of nerve growth factor.
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Fassbender A, Vodolazkaia A, Saunders P, Lebovic D, Waelkens E, De Moor B, D'Hooghe T. Biomarkers of endometriosis. Fertil Steril 2013; 99:1135-45. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2013.01.097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2012] [Revised: 01/11/2013] [Accepted: 01/11/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Abstract
The association of pain and endometriosis was recognized with the first definitive published reports of this disorder. Unfortunately, the precise etiologies and pathways leading to nociception and pain symptoms in endometriosis remain poorly understood, and as a result, effective therapeutic interventions are lacking with consequent profound effects on affected women's quality of life. In this opinion paper we summarize selected proceedings presented at the 28th Annual Meeting of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) in Istanbul, Turkey, and review the clinical and translational evidence of chronic pain, neurogenesis, and the pernicious impact of dyspareunia on women with symptomatic endometriosis. The effectiveness of medical treatments is critically assessed and the findings indicate that good therapeutic options are available with extant medications effective in some sub-groups of women with endometriosis, many of which are affordable globally. Nevertheless, new management strategies and drugs need to be developed to increase the options of all afflicted women to minimize and ideally eradicate painful symptoms of endometriosis. However, only by elucidating distinctions among sub-groups with specific symptoms, suggesting different mechanisms, are we likely to derive truly successful therapeutic strategies.
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Ballester M, Gonin J, Rodenas A, Bernaudin JF, Rouzier R, Coutant C, Daraï E. Eutopic endometrium and peritoneal, ovarian and colorectal endometriotic tissues express a different profile of Nectin-1, -3, -4 and nectin-like molecule 2. Hum Reprod 2012; 27:3179-86. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/des304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
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Proteomic identification of neurotrophins in the eutopic endometrium of women with endometriosis. Fertil Steril 2012; 98:713-9. [PMID: 22717347 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2012.05.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2012] [Revised: 05/14/2012] [Accepted: 05/21/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate neurotrophin (NT) expression in the endometrium of women with and without endometriosis. DESIGN Prospective, cross-sectional, translational study. SETTING Academic hospital. PATIENT(S) Thirty-three reproductive-age women undergoing laparoscopy for infertility, pelvic pain, intramural fibroids, or tubal ligation. INTERVENTION(S) Endometrial biopsies, protein microarrays, reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction, ELISAs, and Western blotting. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Neurotrophin proteins and mRNAs in eutopic endometrial biopsies. RESULT(S) Among seven neurotrophic proteins detected on the antibody microarrays, reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction analysis confirmed nerve growth factor, NT-4/5, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor mRNAs in endometrial tissue. Quantitative ELISAs revealed that NT-4/5 (806 ± 701 vs. 256 ± 190 pg/100 mg protein) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (121 ± 97 vs. 14 ± 11 ng/100 mg protein) concentrations were significantly higher in women with endometriosis. Nerve growth factor (100 ± 74 vs. 93 ± 83 pg/100 mg protein) levels did not differ between cases and controls. CONCLUSION(S) Neurotrophins are synthesized in situ within the endometrium. NT-4/5 and brain-derived neurotrophic factor proteins were more concentrated in biopsies from endometriosis cases than controls, whereas nerve growth factor levels were similar. We hypothesize that the local production of NTs induces sensory innervation of endometrium of women with endometriosis. These NTs represent novel targets for the diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis.
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