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Tang H, Lin T, Wu M, Tsai S. Progesterone resistance in endometriosis: A pathophysiological perspective and potential treatment alternatives. Reprod Med Biol 2024; 23:e12588. [PMID: 38854774 PMCID: PMC11157498 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Endometriosis is a common gynecological disease affecting women of reproductive age. Patients with endometriosis frequently experience severe chronic pain and have higher chances to experience infertility. Progesterone resistance is a major problem that develops during the medical treatment of endometriosis, which often leads to treatment failure of hormonal therapies. Previous studies indicated that the dysregulation of progesterone receptors (PR) is the primary factor leading to progesterone resistance in endometriosis. Methods This review article systematically reviewed and summarized findings extracted from previously published papers available on PubMed, encompassing both experimental studies and clinical trials. Main findings Various determinants influencing PR expression in endometriosis have been identified, including the environmental toxins, microRNAs, cell signaling pathways, genetic mutations, and the pro-inflammatory cytokines. The selective estrogen/progesterone receptor modulators have emerged as novel therapeutic approaches for treating endometriosis, offering potential improvements in overcoming progesterone resistance. Conclusion Concerns and limitations persist despite the newly developed drugs. Therefore, studies on unraveling new therapeutic targets based on the molecular mechanisms of progesterone resistance is warranted for the development potential alternatives to overcome hormonal treatment failure in endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsiao‐Chien Tang
- Institute of Basic Medical SciencesCollege of Medicine, National Cheng Kung UniversityTainanTaiwan
| | - Ting‐Chien Lin
- Department of Gynecology and ObstetricsNational Cheng Kung University HospitalTainanTaiwan
| | - Meng‐Hsing Wu
- Department of Gynecology and ObstetricsNational Cheng Kung University HospitalTainanTaiwan
- Department of PhysiologyCollege of Medicine, National Cheng Kung UniversityTainanTaiwan
| | - Shaw‐Jenq Tsai
- Institute of Basic Medical SciencesCollege of Medicine, National Cheng Kung UniversityTainanTaiwan
- Department of PhysiologyCollege of Medicine, National Cheng Kung UniversityTainanTaiwan
- Department of Biomedical SciencesCollege of Science, National Chung Cheng UniversityChiayiTaiwan
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Yousif A, DePari M, Vitonis AF, Harris HR, Shafrir AL, Terry KL, Missmer SA, Sasamoto N. Visualized peritoneal fluid variation in adolescents and young adults with endometriosis: is there more to it? FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2023; 5:1297907. [PMID: 38162009 PMCID: PMC10757835 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2023.1297907] [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: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Peritoneal fluid is a medium for endometriosis-associated biomarker discovery from which the local peritoneal environment and pathophysiologic pathways are often inferred. Therefore, we evaluated the associations between peritoneal fluid color and volume at time of endometriosis-related laparoscopic surgery with patient characteristics, endometriosis type and lesion location in adolescents and young adults with endometriosis. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional analysis among 545 patients undergoing surgery for endometriosis who enrolled in the Women's Health Study: from Adolescence to Adulthood cohort study. Patient characteristics, surgically visualized endometriosis phenotypes, and gross characteristics of peritoneal fluid were collected in compliance with World Endometriosis Research Foundation Endometriosis Phenome and Biobanking Harmonization Project (EPHect) tools. Chi-square or Fisher's exact tests were applied to test for differences across categories. Results Most of the patients were adolescents or young adults (86% age <25 years) of white race (89%), with only superficial peritoneal lesions and rASRM stage = I/II observed at surgery (both 95%). We observed variation in peritoneal fluid color across different menstrual cycle phases at time of surgery (p = 0.006). Among those who were cycling at time of surgery, endometriosis patients with red peritoneal fluid were most likely to be in the proliferative phase (49%) compared to the secretory phase (27%), while those with yellow or orange peritoneal fluid were most likely to be in the secretory phase (57% and 86% respectively). Yellow color was significantly less common in those taking combined oral contraceptives but much more common with progesterone only formulation exposure (p = 0.002). Peritoneal fluid volume did not differ by cycle phase but was more likely to be low (≤6 ml) for those exposed to hormones at time of surgery (p = 0.01). Those with acyclic pelvic pain were less likely to have red peritoneal fluid (p = 0.001) but had greater volume (p = 0.02) compared to those without. Conclusion Our findings highlight the importance of accounting for menstrual cycle phase and hormonal exposures when designing research using peritoneal fluid samples and inferring from biomarker results intended to advance our understanding of endometriosis and associated symptom pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdelrahman Yousif
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hurley Medical Center, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Flint, MI, United States
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
| | - Mary DePari
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Boston Center for Endometriosis, Boston Children’s Hospital and Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Allison F. Vitonis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Boston Center for Endometriosis, Boston Children’s Hospital and Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Holly R. Harris
- Program in Epidemiology, Division of Public Health Sciences, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA, United States
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Amy L. Shafrir
- Boston Center for Endometriosis, Boston Children’s Hospital and Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Department of Medicine, Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Nutrition and Public Health, School of Nursing and Health Sciences, Merrimack College, North Andover, MA, United States
| | - Kathryn L. Terry
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Boston Center for Endometriosis, Boston Children’s Hospital and Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Stacey A. Missmer
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
- Boston Center for Endometriosis, Boston Children’s Hospital and Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Department of Medicine, Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Naoko Sasamoto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Boston Center for Endometriosis, Boston Children’s Hospital and Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
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3
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Powell SG, Sharma P, Masterson S, Wyatt J, Arshad I, Ahmed S, Lash G, Cross M, Hapangama DK. Vascularisation in Deep Endometriosis: A Systematic Review with Narrative Outcomes. Cells 2023; 12:cells12091318. [PMID: 37174718 PMCID: PMC10177118 DOI: 10.3390/cells12091318] [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: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Deep endometriosis (DE) is the most severe subtype of endometriosis, with the hallmark of lesions infiltrating adjacent tissue. Abnormal vascularisation has been implicated in contributing to endometriosis lesion development in general, and how vascularisation influences the pathogenesis of DE, in particular, is of interest. This systematic review followed the PRISMA guidelines to elucidate and examine the evidence for DE-specific vascularisation. A literature search was performed using MEDLINE, Embase, PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane CENTRAL Library and Europe PubMed Central databases. The databases were searched from inception to the 13 March 2023. A total of 15 studies with 1125 patients were included in the review. The DE lesions were highly vascularised, with a higher microvessel density (MVD) than other types of endometriotic lesions, eutopic endometrium from women with endometriosis and control tissue. Vascular endothelial growth factor, its major subtype (VEGF-A) and associated receptor (VEGFR-2) were significantly increased in the DE lesions compared to superficial endometriosis, eutopic endometrium and control tissue. Progestin therapy was associated with a significant decrease in the MVD of the DE lesions, explaining their therapeutic effect. This review comprehensively summarises the available literature, reporting abnormal vascularisation to be intimately related to the pathogenesis of DE and presents potentially preferential therapeutic targets for the medical management of DE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon G Powell
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK
- Liverpool Women's Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK
- Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool L7 8XP, UK
| | - Priyanka Sharma
- School of Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK
| | - Samuel Masterson
- School of Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK
| | - James Wyatt
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK
- Liverpool Women's Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK
- Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool L7 8XP, UK
| | - Ilyas Arshad
- Liverpool Women's Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK
| | - Shakil Ahmed
- Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool L7 8XP, UK
| | - Gendie Lash
- Guangzhou Institute of Pediatrics, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510180, China
| | - Michael Cross
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3GE, UK
| | - Dharani K Hapangama
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK
- Liverpool Women's Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK
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4
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Co-expression of activating and inhibitory receptors on peritoneal fluid NK cells in women with endometriosis. J Reprod Immunol 2023; 155:103765. [PMID: 36442371 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2022.103765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The detailed mechanism underlying endometriosis development remains unclear; few reports have suggested the involvement of immune and genetic factors. This study aims to investigate the role of NK cells in endometriosis by analyzing the co-expression of activating (NKp46, NKG2C, and NKG2D) and inhibitory receptors (NKG2A and CD158a) on NK cells and their subsequent cytokine production in the peritoneal fluid (PF). Sixty-two patients were enrolled for this study from Hyogo Medical University between February 2018 and April 2022. Results showed that the proportions of CD56+/NKp46+, CD56dim/NKp46+, NKG2C+/NKp46+, and NKG2D+/NKp46+ NK cells were significantly lower in the endometriosis group than those in the control group. Meanwhile, within the peritoneal endometriosis (n = 21) and deep infiltrating endometriosis (n = 11) groups, the co-expression of NKG2D+/NKp46+ and CD16+/NKp46+. Additionally, the abundance of IFN-γ-producing NK cells was significantly increased in the endometriosis group compared to controls, and a significant negative correlation was noted between NKp46 expression on NK cells and type 1 cytokine (IFN-γ and TNF-α) production. Taken together, the findings of this study indicate that NK cell cytotoxicity in endometriosis is reduced due to changes in NKp46 expression, as well as activating receptors co-expressed with NKp46. Consequently, NK cells do not eliminate endometrial cells in the abdominal cavity, resulting in the production of TNF-α and IFN-γ.
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5
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Mori-Yamanaka K, Kimura F, Nakamura A, Hanada T, Kitazawa J, Morimune A, Tsuji S, Murakami T. Exploratory Study of Serum Lactoferrin and Anti-Lactoferrin Antibody Concentrations in Patients with Endometriosis. TOHOKU J EXP MED 2023; 259:135-142. [PMID: 36476585 DOI: 10.1620/tjem.2022.j106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a disease that is characterized by the ectopic presence of the endometrium or its similar cells. A high prevalence of patients with autoimmune diseases has been reported among patients with endometriosis although the cause of endometriosis remained unknown. Recently, the anti-lactoferrin antibody is reported to be highly detected in autoimmune diseases. This study focused on lactoferrin and anti-lactoferrin antibodies to explore the pathology of endometriosis. Lactoferrin is a substance that regulates inflammation and is produced by neutrophils. Anti-lactoferrin antibody is a type of perinuclear antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody. The serum lactoferrin and anti-lactoferrin antibody levels were compared among patients with or without endometriosis, revealing significantly higher levels in patients with endometriosis. Additionally, a decreased serum anti-lactoferrin antibody level was observed after surgical endometriosis resection. The receiver operating characteristic curve analysis determined the reference values for the serum lactoferrin and anti-lactoferrin antibody levels. Patients whose serum level exceeded the reference anti-lactoferrin antibody value were significantly higher in more than 40% of cases in the endometriosis group. The rate is comparable to that of autoimmune diseases. This is the first report that anti-lactoferrin antibody is frequently observed in patients with endometriosis, adding a new perspective to the understanding of the pathology of endometriosis although precisely elucidating the mechanism by which lactoferrin and anti-lactoferrin antibody appear in endometriosis in the future is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaya Mori-Yamanaka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science
| | - Fuminori Kimura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nara Medical University
| | - Akiko Nakamura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science
| | - Tetsuro Hanada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science
| | - Jun Kitazawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science
| | - Aina Morimune
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science
| | - Shunichiro Tsuji
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science
| | - Takashi Murakami
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science
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Arosh JA, Sivakumar KK, Lee J, Banu SK. Effects of selective inhibition of prostaglandin E2 receptors EP2 and EP4 on the miRNA profile in endometriosis. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2022; 558:111728. [PMID: 35944745 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2022.111728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent, progesterone-resistant, chronic inflammatory gynecological disease of reproductive-age women. Two major clinical symptoms of endometriosis are chronic pelvic pain and infertility, which profoundly affect the quality of life in women. Current hormonal therapies to induce a hypoestrogenic state are unsuccessful because of undesirable side effects, reproductive health concerns, and failure to prevent disease recurrence. Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) plays an important role in the survival and growth of endometriotic lesions. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, noncoding RNAs that control gene expressions through multiple mechanisms and have important roles in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. The objective of the present study is to determine the effects of pharmacological inhibition of PGE2 receptors, EP2 and EP4, on miRNA profile in endometriosis. The novel results collectively indicate that inhibition of PGE2-EP2/EP4 signaling regulated several miRNA clusters associated with cell adhesion, migration, invasion, survival and growth in cell-specific and the chromosome-specific manner and reverses the epigenetic silencing of proapoptotic miRNAs 15a and 34c in the human endometriotic epithelial and stromal cells and experimental endometriotic lesions. Thus, selective inhibition of EP2/EP4 receptors could emerge as a potential nonsteroidal therapy for endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joe A Arosh
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Cell Signaling Laboratory, Department of Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, TX, 77843, College Station, USA.
| | - Kirthiram K Sivakumar
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Cell Signaling Laboratory, Department of Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, TX, 77843, College Station, USA
| | - JeHoon Lee
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Cell Signaling Laboratory, Department of Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, TX, 77843, College Station, USA
| | - Sakhila K Banu
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Cell Signaling Laboratory, Department of Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, TX, 77843, College Station, USA
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7
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Sasamoto N, Ngo L, Vitonis AF, Dillon ST, Missmer SA, Libermann TA, Terry KL. Circulating proteomic profiles associated with endometriosis in adolescents and young adults. Hum Reprod 2022; 37:2042-2053. [PMID: 35770801 PMCID: PMC9801982 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deac146] [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: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What are the systemic molecular profiles of endometriosis diagnosed in adolescents and young adults? SUMMARY ANSWER Significant enrichment and increased activation of proteins related to angiogenesis and cell migration pathways were observed in endometriosis cases compared to controls (P-value < 2.4 × 10-8). WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Little is known about the pathophysiology of adolescent endometriosis despite the fact that over 50% of adults with endometriosis report onset of severe pelvic pain during adolescence. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A cross-sectional analysis using data on 142 laparoscopically confirmed endometriosis cases and 74 controls from the observational longitudinal cohort of Women's Health Study: From Adolescence to Adulthood (A2A). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS We measured 1305 plasma protein levels using the validated, multiplex aptamer-based proteomics discovery platform, SOMAscan. We calculated odds ratios and 95% CIs using logistic regression adjusting for age, BMI, fasting status and hormone use at blood draw for differentially expressed proteins (P < 0.05). Ingenuity Pathway Analysis and STRING analysis were performed to identify biological pathways and protein interactions. We also examined proteins and pathways associated with superficial peritoneal lesion colors (i.e. red, vascularized, white, blue/black, brown). MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Average age at blood draw was 18 years for endometriosis cases and 22 years for controls. We identified 63 proteins associated with endometriosis with type-I error set at 0.05, and absolute fold change >1.2, revealing significant enrichment of dysregulated proteins in biological pathways associated with endometriosis. Increased activation of pathways related to angiogenesis and cell migration was observed in plasma from endometriosis cases compared to controls (P-value < 2.4 × 10-8). Furthermore, when we examined proteins and pathways associated with lesion colors, vascularized lesions were associated with upregulation of pathways related to immune cell migration/activation and inflammation, whereas white, blue/black and brown lesions were associated with downregulation of these pathways. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Validation of our results in independent datasets and mechanistic studies are warranted to further our understanding of the pathophysiological characteristics of this common but understudied patient population. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS To our knowledge, this was the first study to comprehensively examine circulating proteins in predominantly adolescents and young adult women with and without endometriosis. Results from this study provide novel biological insight that will build toward further research to elucidate endometriosis pathophysiology during the earlier course of the disease trajectory. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was supported by the Department of Defense (W81XWH1910318) and the 2017 Boston Center for Endometriosis Trainee Award. Financial support for establishment of and data collection within the A2A cohort were provided by the J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Foundation. N.S., A.F.V., S.A.M., K.L.T. have received funding from Marriott Family Foundation. S.A.M. and K.L.T. are supported by NICHD (R01 HD94842). S.A.M. serves as an advisory board member for AbbVie and Roche; neither are related to this study. The authors report no conflict of interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoko Sasamoto
- Correspondence address. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Epidemiology Center, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, 221 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA. Tel: +1-617-732-4895; Fax: +1-617-732-4899; E-mail:
| | - Long Ngo
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA,Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Allison F Vitonis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA,Boston Center for Endometriosis, Boston Children’s Hospital and Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Simon T Dillon
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA,Genomics, Proteomics, Bioinformatics and Systems Biology Center, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Stacey A Missmer
- Boston Center for Endometriosis, Boston Children’s Hospital and Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA,Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, Grand Rapids, MI, USA,Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
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Tapdıgova R, Bayrak G, Yılmaz BC, Aytan H. Antilipidemic ezetimibe induces regression of endometriotic explants in a rat model of endometriosis with its anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic effects. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2022; 395:673-680. [PMID: 35294604 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-022-02226-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
To assess the potential therapeutic role of antilipidemic ezetimibe on endometriosis in an experimental rat model. A standard experimental endometriosis model was created with 18 Whistar-Albino rats, and after 1 month, the sizes of the endometriotic explants were measured. The rats were randomized as study and control groups. A total of 1 mg/kg/day ezetimibe and 1 ml/kg/day saline were administered orally to the study and control groups respectively for 28 days. At the end of 28 days, the explants were measured again, excised, and sent for histopathologic assessment for expression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and number of mast cells. At the end of the study period, the size of the endometriotic explants decreased significantly in the study group; but not in the control group (from 145.3 ± 120.5 to 89.8 ± 60.1 vs 174.72 ± 88.3 to 87.65 ± 27.1 cm3 respectively); however, the amount of post- and pretreatment differences in explant sizes was similar in the groups. The median TNF-α and VEGF levels were significantly lower in the ezetimibe group when compared to the control group (4 [3-4] vs 2 [1-3], p 0.029; 4 [3-4] vs 2 [2-3], p 0.002; respectively). And numbers of mast cells in all uterine layers were also lower in the ezetimibe group. Ezetimibe decreased the size of the endometriotic explants with its anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic properties. This agent alone or with combination of other agents may have a potential role in the treatment of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raziyya Tapdıgova
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Mersin University, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Gülsen Bayrak
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Mersin University, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Banu Coşkun Yılmaz
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Mersin University, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Hakan Aytan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Mersin University, Mersin, Turkey.
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Kamrani S, Amirchaghmaghi E, Ghaffari F, Shahhoseini M, Ghaedi K. Altered gene expression of VEGF, IGFs and H19 lncRNA and epigenetic profile of H19-DMR region in endometrial tissues of women with endometriosis. Reprod Health 2022; 19:100. [PMID: 35459174 PMCID: PMC9034598 DOI: 10.1186/s12978-022-01406-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Endometriosis, as chronic estrogen-dependent disease, is defined by the presence of endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus. Proliferation of endometrial tissue and neoangiogenesis are critical factors in development of endometriosis. Hence, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) as well as insulin‐like growth factor 1 and 2 (IGF1, 2) may be involved as inducers of cellular proliferation or neoangiogenesis. Imprinted long noncoding RNA H19 (lncRNA H19) has been suggested to be involved in pathogenesis of endometriosis via regulation of cellular proliferation and differentiation. Epigenetic aberrations appear to play an important role in its pathogenesis. The present study was designed to elucidate VEGF, IGF1, IGF2 and H19 lncRNA genes expression and epigenetic alterations of differentially methylated region (DMR) of H19 (H19-DMR) regulatory region in endometrial tissues of patients with endometriosis, in comparison with control women. Methods In this case–control study, 24 women with and without endometriosis were studied for the relative expression of VEGF, IGF1, IGF2 and H19 lncRNA genes using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique. Occupancy of the MeCP2 on DMR region of H19 gene was assessed using chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP), followed by real-time PCR. Results Genes expression profile of H19, IGF1 and IGF2 was decreased in eutopic and ectopic endometrial tissues of endometriosis group, compared to the control tissues. Decreased expression of H19 in ectopic samples was significant in comparison with the controls (P < 0.05). Gene expression of VEGF was increased in eutopic tissues of endometriosis group, compared to control group. Whereas its expression level was lower in ectopic lesions versus eutopic and control endometrial samples. ChIP analysis revealed significant and nearly significant hypomethylation of H19-DMR region II in eutopic and ectopic samples, compared to the control group respectively. This epigenetic change was aligned with expression of IGF2. While methylation of H19-DMR region I was not significantly different between the eutopic, ectopic and control endometrial samples. Conclusion These data showed that VEGF, IGF1, IGF2 and H19 lncRNA genes expression and epigenetic alterations of H19 lncRNA have dynamic role in the pathogenesis of endometriosis, specifically in the way that hypomethylation of H19-DMR region II can be involved in IGF2 dysregulation in endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sedigheh Kamrani
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Microbiology, Faculty of Biological Science and Technology, University of Isfahan, Hezar Jerib Ave, Azadi Square, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Elham Amirchaghmaghi
- Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Regenerative Biomedicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Firouzeh Ghaffari
- Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Shahhoseini
- Department of Genetics, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, P.O.Box: 19395-4644, Tehran, Iran. .,Reproductive Epidemiology Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran. .,Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, School of Biology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Kamran Ghaedi
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Microbiology, Faculty of Biological Science and Technology, University of Isfahan, Hezar Jerib Ave, Azadi Square, Isfahan, Iran.
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10
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Filippi F, Benaglia L, Alagna F, La Vecchia I, Biancardi R, Reschini M, Somigliana E, Vercellini P. Decidualization of endometriosis in a cohort of IVF-mediated pregnancies. Sci Rep 2022; 12:1524. [PMID: 35087168 PMCID: PMC8795262 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-05635-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Decidualization is the process of endometrial change in pregnancy, a phenomenon that can involve also ovarian endometriomas. However, the frequency of this event remains unknown. In addition, there is no evidence on the decidualization of deep invasive endometriosis (DIE). To shed more light on this issue, we prospectively recruited women with ovarian endometriomas or DIE who underwent IVF. They were subsequently excluded if they did not become pregnant or if they had a miscarriage. The evaluation was repeated in five time points during pregnancy and post-partum. The primary outcome was the rate of decidualized endometriomas at 11-13 weeks' gestation. Data from 45 endometriomas and 15 nodules were available for data analyses. At the 11-13 weeks' ultrasound, endometriomas' decidualization was observed in seven cases, corresponding to 16% (95% CI 8-29%). Subsequent assessments in pregnancy failed to identify any additional case. DIE also underwent significant changes during pregnancy. At the 11-13 weeks' ultrasound, lesions were increased in size and more vascularized. In conclusion, decidualization of ovarian endometriomas in IVF pregnancies is not rare. DIE may also undergo decidualization, but further evidence is needed for a robust and shared definition of this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Filippi
- Infertility Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via M. Fanti, 6, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Laura Benaglia
- Infertility Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via M. Fanti, 6, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Federica Alagna
- Infertility Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via M. Fanti, 6, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Irene La Vecchia
- Infertility Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via M. Fanti, 6, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Rossella Biancardi
- Centro Scienze Natalità, Gynecol/Obstet Unit, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Reschini
- Infertility Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via M. Fanti, 6, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Edgardo Somigliana
- Infertility Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via M. Fanti, 6, 20122, Milan, Italy.
| | - Paolo Vercellini
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.,Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
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11
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Jin Z, Zhang Y, Li J, Lv S, Zhang L, Feng Y. Endometriosis stem cell sources and potential therapeutic targets: literature review and bioinformatics analysis. Regen Med 2021; 16:949-962. [PMID: 34585967 DOI: 10.2217/rme-2021-0039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The stem cell origin theory of endometriosis (EMS) is a significant area of new research but the sources of this have yet to be adequately summarized. Existing treatments for EMS are commonly associated with a high recurrence rate; consequently, there is an urgent need to develop new therapeutic measures for the future treatment of this disease from the view of stem cells and gene therapy. Recently, we described the evidence for the potential sources of EMS stem cells and other key molecules participating in the establishment of lesions, and predict the miRNAs that target these key genes via bioinformatics analysis for further research. This review highlights the origin of EMS stem cells and potential therapy targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhe Jin
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiangxi, 330006, China.,The Second Clinical Medical School of Nanchang University, Jiangxi, 330031, China
| | - Yize Zhang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiangxi, 330006, China.,The Second Clinical Medical School of Nanchang University, Jiangxi, 330031, China
| | - Jingyi Li
- School of Public Health of Nanchang University, Jiangxi, 330031, China
| | - Sidi Lv
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiangxi, 330006, China.,The Second Clinical Medical School of Nanchang University, Jiangxi, 330031, China
| | - Lixia Zhang
- The First Hospital of Handan City, Hebei, 056004, China
| | - Ying Feng
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiangxi, 330006, China
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12
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Widschwendter P, Köhler M, Friedl T, Ammann B, Janni W, Rhomberg C, Karner M, Beer M, De Gregorio A, Polasik A. Diagnosis of presence and extent of deep infiltrating endometriosis by preoperative MRI-improvement of staging accuracy by expert training. J Gynecol Obstet Hum Reprod 2021; 51:102236. [PMID: 34592437 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogoh.2021.102236] [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: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study evaluates the clinical utility of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for the determination of presence and extent of DIE with special emphasis on effects of MRI reporting training MATERIAL AND METHODS: Data from 80 patients with clinically suspected DIE presented at our certified endometriosis center between 2015 and 2018 were analyzed. For all patients an ENZIAN score (describing DIE related to individual anatomical localizations) was obtained based on the preoperative MRI findings. The intraoperatively determined ENZIAN score served as the reference for assessment of diagnostic performance of the MRI. RESULTS Overall, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) for the diagnosis of DIE by MRI were 76.9%, 53.3%, 87.7% and 34.8%, respectively. Analysis by compartment revealed a sensitivity, specificity, PPV and NPV of 59.5%, 88.2%, 86.2% and 63.9%, respectively, for compartment A, with similar values for compartment B, and 50.0%, 88.9%, 64.7% and 81.4%, respectively, for the less often affected compartment C. Expert training (n = 32 before, n = 48 after) led to a considerable increase in sensitivities for the overall detection of DIE (84.6% vs. 65.4%, p = 0.071) and for the detection of DIE in compartment A (71.4% vs. 35.7%, p = 0.026), compartment B (66.7% vs. 37.5%, p = 0.057) and compartment C (75.0% vs. 20.0%, p = 0.010), without significant loss in specificity (all p > 0.50). DISCUSSION After expert training, MRI has a good sensitivity with fair specificity regarding preoperative assessment of presence, location and extent of DIE.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Widschwendter
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Ulm, Prittwitzstraße 43, 89075 Ulm, Germany; Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, General Hospital Hall, Milserstrasse 10, 6060 Hall in Tirol, Austria
| | - M Köhler
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Ulm, Prittwitzstraße 43, 89075 Ulm, Germany
| | - Twp Friedl
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Ulm, Prittwitzstraße 43, 89075 Ulm, Germany
| | - B Ammann
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital Ulm, Albert Einstein Allee 23, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - W Janni
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Ulm, Prittwitzstraße 43, 89075 Ulm, Germany
| | - C Rhomberg
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, General Hospital Hall, Milserstrasse 10, 6060 Hall in Tirol, Austria
| | - M Karner
- Department of Radiology, General Hospital Bruneck, Spitalstraße 11, 39031 Bruneck, Italy
| | - M Beer
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital Ulm, Albert Einstein Allee 23, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - A De Gregorio
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Ulm, Prittwitzstraße 43, 89075 Ulm, Germany
| | - A Polasik
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Ulm, Prittwitzstraße 43, 89075 Ulm, Germany.
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13
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Li S, Ding L. Endometrial Perivascular Progenitor Cells and Uterus Regeneration. J Pers Med 2021; 11:jpm11060477. [PMID: 34071743 PMCID: PMC8230145 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11060477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian steroid-regulated cyclical regeneration of the endometrium is crucial for endometrial receptivity and embryo implantation, and it is dependent on the dynamic remodeling of the endometrial vasculature. Perivascular cells, including pericytes surrounding capillaries and microvessels and adventitial cells located in the outermost layer of large vessels, show properties of mesenchymal stem cells, and they are thus promising candidates for uterine regeneration. In this review, we discuss the structure and functions of the endometrial blood vasculature and their roles in endometrial regeneration, the main biomarkers and characteristics of perivascular cells in the endometrium, and stem cell-based angiogenetic therapy for Asherman’s syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiyuan Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, China;
- Center for Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China
- Center for Clinical Stem Cell Research, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Lijun Ding
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, China;
- Center for Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China
- Center for Clinical Stem Cell Research, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, China
- MRC Center for Regenerative Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4UU, UK
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-25-83107170; Fax: +86-25-83105974
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14
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Ersoy B, Hey-Cunningham AJ, Lindsay L, Varol N, Markham R. Altered immune environment in peritoneal endometriotic lesions: relationship to lesion appearance. F&S SCIENCE 2021; 2:207-218. [PMID: 35559754 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfss.2020.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the localization of and quantify different immune cell populations in red, black, and white peritoneal endometriotic lesions and compare immune cell densities between lesions and the surrounding tissue. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTING Teaching hospital, university research laboratory. PATIENT(S) Participants undergoing laparoscopic excision of endometriosis were recruited from gynecological operating theaters at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney (n = 28). INTERVENTION(S) Immunohistochemical staining for and quantification of dendritic cells (mature and immature), T cells (effector, cytotoxic, and regulatory), B cells, and macrophages in endometriotic peritoneal lesions and the surrounding tissue. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Immune cell densities and aggregates were quantified. RESULT(S) Red and black lesions are significantly more likely to be surrounded by immune cell aggregates than white lesions (P=.036). In the tissue surrounding the peritoneal endometriotic lesions, there was a consistent pattern of greater and more variable density of immune cell populations for red lesions than black or white lesions and a range of significant positive correlations between densities of different immune populations (all P≤.004; not observed within the lesion stroma). CONCLUSION(S) There is a greater presence of immune cells in the tissue surrounding earlier/red and black lesions than older scarred white lesions, particularly in the form of immune cell aggregates, indicating an immunologic response in close proximity to the adjacent lesion. The relationship between densities of immune populations in the tissue surrounding the lesions suggests complementary recruitment and local interactions between cells. Categorizing immune cell populations in proximity to peritoneal endometriotic lesions may improve the understanding of lesion persistence and transition to older white appearances. Early (red) peritoneal endometriotic lesions are surrounded by a greater density of immune cells, including immune aggregates, than later (black or white) lesions. These immune cells may support lesion persistence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Burcu Ersoy
- Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Neonatology, Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Alison J Hey-Cunningham
- Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Neonatology, Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Laura Lindsay
- Discipline of Anatomy and Histology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
| | - Nesrin Varol
- Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Neonatology, Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, Australia
| | - Robert Markham
- Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Neonatology, Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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15
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Xu X, Cai X, Liu X, Guo SW. Possible involvement of neuropeptide and neurotransmitter receptors in Adenomyosis. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2021; 19:25. [PMID: 33602248 PMCID: PMC7893711 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-021-00711-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Accumulating data indicate that sensory nerve derived neuropeptides such as substance P and calcitonin gene related-protein (CGRP) can accelerate the progression of endometriosis via their respective receptors, so can agonists to their respective receptors receptor 1 (NK1R), receptor activity modifying protein 1 (RAMP-1) and calcitonin receptor-like receptor (CRLR). Adrenergic β2 receptor (ADRB2) agonists also can facilitate lesional progression. In contrast, women with endometriosis appear to have depressed vagal activity, concordant with reduced expression of α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR). The roles of these receptors in adenomyosis are completely unknown. METHODS Adenomyotic tissue samples from 30 women with adenomyosis and control endometrial tissue samples from 24 women without adenomyosis were collected and subjected to immunohistochemistry analysis of RAMP1, CRLR, NK1R, ADRB2 and α7nAChR, along with their demographic and clinical information. The extent of tissue fibrosis was evaluated by Masson trichrome staining. RESULTS We found that the staining levels of NK1R, CRLR, RAMP1 and ADRB2 were all significantly elevated in adenomyotic lesions as compared with control endometrium. In contrast, α7nAChR staining levels were significantly reduced. The severity of dysmenorrhea correlated positively with lesional ADRB2 staining levels. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that SP, CGRP and noradrenaline may promote, while acetylcholine may stall, the progression of adenomyosis through their respective receptors on adenomyotic lesions. Additionally, through the activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA)-sympatho-adrenal-medullary (SAM) axes and the lesional overexpression of ADRB2, adenomyosis-associated dysmenorrhea and adenomyotic lesions may be mutually promotional, forming a viscous feed-forward cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofang Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ningbo No. 7 Hospital, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315200, China
| | - Xianjun Cai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ningbo No. 7 Hospital, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315200, China
| | - Xishi Liu
- Shanghai Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, 419 Fangxie Road, Shanghai, 200011, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Sun-Wei Guo
- Shanghai Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, 419 Fangxie Road, Shanghai, 200011, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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16
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Reduced vagal tone in women with endometriosis and auricular vagus nerve stimulation as a potential therapeutic approach. Sci Rep 2021; 11:1345. [PMID: 33446725 PMCID: PMC7809474 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-79750-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Sensory and sympathetic nerves have been shown to promote the progression of endometriosis through the release of neuromediators and the lesional activation of respective receptors. The role of vagus nerves (VN) in lesional progression, however, is completely unclear, despite the signs suggestive of increased sympathetic tone in women with endometriosis. This study was undertaken to investigate whether VN plays any role in the progression of endometriosis. We recruited 45 patients with endometriosis and 42 healthy women, who were given electrocardiogram test and their heart rate variability was evaluated. In addition, three prospective, and randomized mouse experiments were conducted that evaluated, respectively, the effect of vagotomy, the effect of VN stimulation (VNS), and the therapeutic potential of VNS after the endometriosis was well established. All lesions were excised, weighed, and processed for immunohistochemistry and histochemistry analysis of select markers for lesional progression and fibrosis. We found that endometriosis patients exhibited reduced vagal activity as compared with controls, indicative of disrupted autonomic balance. Vagotomy increased while VNS decreased the lesion weight as compared with control mice, concomitant with more progressive and retarded lesion development and fibrogenesis, respectively. In addition, VNS demonstrated promising therapeutic effect, as evidenced by significantly reduced lesion weight, more attenuated lesional progression concomitant with improved hyperalgesia. Taken together, our data indicate that VN activity may play a dampening role in the progression of endometriosis. Consequently, boosting the VN activity may have therapeutic potentials for patients with endometriosis.
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17
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Maddern J, Grundy L, Castro J, Brierley SM. Pain in Endometriosis. Front Cell Neurosci 2020; 14:590823. [PMID: 33132854 PMCID: PMC7573391 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2020.590823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a chronic and debilitating condition affecting ∼10% of women. Endometriosis is characterized by infertility and chronic pelvic pain, yet treatment options remain limited. In many respects this is related to an underlying lack of knowledge of the etiology and mechanisms contributing to endometriosis-induced pain. Whilst many studies focus on retrograde menstruation, and the formation and development of lesions in the pathogenesis of endometriosis, the mechanisms underlying the associated pain remain poorly described. Here we review the recent clinical and experimental evidence of the mechanisms contributing to chronic pain in endometriosis. This includes the roles of inflammation, neurogenic inflammation, neuroangiogenesis, peripheral sensitization and central sensitization. As endometriosis patients are also known to have co-morbidities such as irritable bowel syndrome and overactive bladder syndrome, we highlight how common nerve pathways innervating the colon, bladder and female reproductive tract can contribute to co-morbidity via cross-organ sensitization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Maddern
- Visceral Pain Research Group, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Hopwood Centre for Neurobiology, Lifelong Health Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Luke Grundy
- Visceral Pain Research Group, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Hopwood Centre for Neurobiology, Lifelong Health Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Joel Castro
- Visceral Pain Research Group, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Hopwood Centre for Neurobiology, Lifelong Health Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Stuart M. Brierley
- Visceral Pain Research Group, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Hopwood Centre for Neurobiology, Lifelong Health Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Discipline of Medicine, University of Adelaide, North Terrace Campus, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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18
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Ding D, Wang X, Chen Y, Benagiano G, Liu X, Guo SW. Evidence in Support for the Progressive Nature of Ovarian Endometriomas. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2020; 105:5819533. [PMID: 32282052 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgaa189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 04/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Whether endometriosis is a progressive disease is a highly contentious issue. While progression is reported to be unlikely in asymptomatic deep endometriosis, progression in symptomatic deep endometriosis has recently been reported, especially in menstruating women. However, pathophysiological reasons for these differences are unclear. OBJECTIVE This study was designed to investigate whether ovarian endometrioma (OE) is progressive or not. SETTING, DESIGN, PATIENTS, INTERVENTION AND MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Thirty adolescent patients, aged 15 to 19 years, and 32 adult patients, aged 35 to 39 years, all laparoscopically and histologically diagnosed with OE, were recruited into this study after informed consent. Their demographic and clinical information were collected. Their OE tissue samples were collected and subjected to immunohistochemical analysis for E-cadherin, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), desmin, and adrenergic receptor β2 (ADRB2), as well as quantification of lesional fibrosis by Masson trichrome staining. RESULTS OE lesions from the adolescent and adult patients are markedly different, with the latter exhibiting more extensive and thorough progression and more extensive fibrosis, suggesting that lesions in adults progressed to a more advanced stage. Adult lesions and higher staining level of α-SMA and ADRB2 are positively associated with the extent of lesional fibrosis, while the lesion size and the E-cadherin staining are negatively associated. CONCLUSIONS Our data provide a more definitive piece of evidence suggesting that OE is a progressive disease, since the adult lesions have had a longer time to progress. In addition, the pace of progression depends on lesional age as well as the severity of endometriosis-associated dysmenorrhea, if any.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ding Ding
- Shanghai OB/GYN Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xi Wang
- Shanghai OB/GYN Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yishan Chen
- Shanghai OB/GYN Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Giuseppe Benagiano
- Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Sapienza, University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Xishi Liu
- Shanghai OB/GYN Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Sun-Wei Guo
- Shanghai OB/GYN Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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19
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Zani ACT, Valerio FP, Meola J, da Silva AR, Nogueira AA, Candido-Dos-Reis FJ, Poli-Neto OB, Rosa-E-Silva JC. Impact of Bevacizumab on Experimentally Induced Endometriotic Lesions: Angiogenesis, Invasion, Apoptosis, and Cell Proliferation. Reprod Sci 2020; 27:1943-1950. [PMID: 32542537 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00213-7] [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: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is responsible for pain symptoms with great impact on the patient's quality of life. Several medication lines have been studied aiming at its definitive treatment. Among them, angiogenesis inhibitor factors may be effective given that angiogenesis has fundamental role in the establishment and growth of endometriotic lesions. In this study, we investigated the influence of bevacizumab, anti-factor drug of endothelial growth (anti-VEGF), used at two different dosages, in experimental endometriosis induced in rats. After the induction of endometriosis lesions in rats, they were divided in 3 groups: control group, no treatment, and two other groups were treated with different dosages of the same medication for 4 weeks. At the end of the treatment, endometriotic lesions were removed and evaluated regarding area of lesions, presence of endometrial tissue in microscopy, positivity for anti-VEGF antibody in immunohistochemistry, and gene expression of Pcna, Mmp9, Tp63, and Vegfa. Bevacizumab acted by reducing the area of lesions in the groups that received medication (p = 0.002) and reducing gene expression to Tp63 in lesions (p = 0.04). There was no significant result in other evaluations. We observed that there was significant reduction of the area of lesions among groups, suggesting that bevacizumab has a positive effect on disease control. The gene expression of Tp63 was significantly lower in the group that received high dose of the drug when compared with the other two groups; therefore, we concluded that bevacizumab acts by reducing cell proliferation and differentiation in lesions, constituting a real option for treating endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Carolina Tagliatti Zani
- Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of São Paulo, Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Fernando Passador Valerio
- Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of São Paulo, Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Juliana Meola
- Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of São Paulo, Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Alfredo Ribeiro da Silva
- Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, Department of Pathology and Legal Medicine, University of São Paulo, Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Antonio Alberto Nogueira
- Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of São Paulo, Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Francisco José Candido-Dos-Reis
- Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of São Paulo, Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Omero Benedicto Poli-Neto
- Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of São Paulo, Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Julio Cesar Rosa-E-Silva
- Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of São Paulo, Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14049-900, Brazil.
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20
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Maharajaa SPK, Asally R, Markham R, Manconi F. Endometriotic lesions. JOURNAL OF ENDOMETRIOSIS AND PELVIC PAIN DISORDERS 2019. [DOI: 10.1177/2284026519838748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a complex gynaecological condition affecting women of reproductive age. It is characterised by the presence of lesions containing endometrial glands and stroma outside the uterus. The disease is typically associated with pelvic pain (including dysmenorrhoea and dyspareunia), infertility and bowel-related symptoms. Endometriotic lesions have a highly variable presentation and most commonly occur in the abdominal cavity. These lesions are broadly classified into peritoneal, ovarian and deep infiltrating endometriosis. There have been observations of increased density of nerve fibres and neurological molecules in the endometriotic lesions compared to the uninvolved peritoneum of women without endometriosis and the presence of unmyelinated nerve fibres were higher near the glands. The lesion sites are characterised by a range of immunological alterations, and specific immune cell populations have also been known to synthesise and secrete neurogenic factors. Endometriotic lesions are capable of producing prostaglandins which are direct generators of pain and are capable of inducing inflammation. Diagnosing the disease involves direct visualisation of the lesions through a laparoscopic or laparotomy, which is followed by histopathological examination of biopsied or excised lesions. The staging of endometriosis due to its complexity is highly variable as presentation and gaps in knowledge pose a great challenge in the classification of the disease. The medical management of endometriosis aims at providing adequate analgesia and suppression of the activity of the lesion. A better understanding of endometriotic lesion relationships between innervations and specific clinical characteristics may elucidate aspects of pain mechanisms and infertility in endometriosis and facilitate the development of novel therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sri PK Maharajaa
- Discipline of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Neonatology, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Razan Asally
- Discipline of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Neonatology, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Robert Markham
- Discipline of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Neonatology, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Frank Manconi
- Discipline of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Neonatology, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
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Sekiguchi K, Ito Y, Hattori K, Inoue T, Hosono K, Honda M, Numao A, Amano H, Shibuya M, Unno N, Majima M. VEGF Receptor 1-Expressing Macrophages Recruited from Bone Marrow Enhances Angiogenesis in Endometrial Tissues. Sci Rep 2019; 9:7037. [PMID: 31065021 PMCID: PMC6504918 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-43185-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis is critical in maintenance of endometrial tissues. Here, we examined the role of VEGF receptor 1 (VEGFR1) signaling in angiogenesis and tissue growth in an endometriosis model. Endometrial fragments were implanted into the peritoneal wall of mice, and endometrial tissue growth and microvessel density (MVD) were determined. Endometrial fragments from wild-type (WT) mice grew slowly with increased angiogenesis determined by CD31+ MVD, peaking on Day 14. When tissues from WT mice were transplanted into VEGFR1 tyrosine kinase-knockout mice, implant growth and angiogenesis were suppressed on Day 14 compared with growth of WT implants in a WT host. The blood vessels in the implants were not derived from the host peritoneum. Immunostaining for VEGFR1 suggested that high numbers of VEGFR1+ cells such as macrophages were infiltrated into the endometrial tissues. When macrophages were deleted with Clophosome N, both endometrial tissue growth and angiogenesis were significantly suppressed. Bone marrow chimera experiments revealed that growth and angiogenesis in endometrial implants were promoted by host bone marrow-derived VEGFR1+/CD11b+ macrophages that accumulated in the implants, and secreted basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF). A FGF receptor kinase inhibitor, PD173047 significantly reduced size of endometrial tissues and angiogenesis. VEGFR1 signaling in host-derived cells is crucial for growth and angiogenesis in endometrial tissue. Thus, VEGFR1 blockade is a potential treatment for endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuki Sekiguchi
- Department of Pharmacology, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan.,Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kitasato University, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Yoshiya Ito
- Department of Pharmacology, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan.,Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kitasato University, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Kyoko Hattori
- Department of Pharmacology, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan.,Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kitasato University, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Tomoyoshi Inoue
- Department of Pharmacology, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan.,Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kitasato University, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Kanako Hosono
- Department of Pharmacology, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan.,Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kitasato University, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Masako Honda
- Department of Pharmacology, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan.,Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kitasato University, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Akiko Numao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Hideki Amano
- Department of Pharmacology, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan.,Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kitasato University, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Masabumi Shibuya
- Gakubunkan Institute of Physiology and Medicine, Jobu University, Takasaki, Gunma, Japan
| | - Nobuya Unno
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Masataka Majima
- Department of Pharmacology, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan. .,Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kitasato University, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan.
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Comparison of enhanced laparoscopic imaging techniques in endometriosis surgery: a diagnostic accuracy study. Surg Endosc 2019; 34:96-104. [PMID: 31028547 PMCID: PMC6946762 DOI: 10.1007/s00464-019-06736-8] [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] [Received: 11/16/2018] [Accepted: 03/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Background For surgical endometriosis, treatment key is to properly identify the peritoneal lesions. The aim of this clinical study was to investigate if advanced imaging improves the detection rate by comparing narrow-band imaging (NBI), near-infrared imaging with indocyanine green (NIR-ICG), or three-dimensional white-light imaging (3D), to conventional two-dimensional white-light imaging (2D) for the detection of peritoneal endometriotic lesions. Methods This study was a prospective, single-center, randomized within-subject, clinical trial. The trial was conducted at Amsterdam UMC—Location VUmc, a tertiary referral hospital for endometriosis. 20 patients with ASRM stage III–IV endometriosis, scheduled for elective laparoscopic treatment of their endometriosis, were included. During laparoscopy, the pelvic region was systematically inspected with conventional 2D white-light imaging followed by inspection with NBI, NIR-ICG, and 3D imaging in a randomized order. Suspected endometriotic lesions and control biopsies of presumably healthy peritoneum were taken for histological examination. The pathologist was blinded for the method of laparoscopic detection. Sensitivity and specificity rates of the enhanced imaging techniques were analyzed. McNemar’s test was used to compare sensitivity to 2D white-light imaging and Method of Tango to assess non-inferiority of specificity. Results In total, 180 biopsies were taken (117 biopsies from lesions suspected for endometriosis; 63 control biopsies). 3D showed a significantly improved sensitivity rate (83.5% vs. 75.8%, p = 0.016) and a non-inferior specificity rate (82.4% vs. 84.7%, p = 0.009) when compared to 2D white-light imaging. The single use of NBI or NIR-ICG showed no improvement in the detection of endometriosis. Combining the results of 3D and NBI resulted in a sensitivity rate of 91.2% (p < 0.001). Conclusion Enhanced laparoscopic imaging with 3D white light, combined with NBI, improves the detection rate of peritoneal endometriosis when compared to conventional 2D white-light imaging. The use of these imaging techniques enables a more complete laparoscopic resection of endometriosis.
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Hudelist G, Aas-Eng MK, Birsan T, Berger F, Sevelda U, Kirchner L, Salama M, Dauser B. Pain and fertility outcomes of nerve-sparing, full-thickness disk or segmental bowel resection for deep infiltrating endometriosis-A prospective cohort study. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2018; 97:1438-1446. [DOI: 10.1111/aogs.13436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2018] [Revised: 07/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Gernot Hudelist
- Department of Gynecology; Hospital St. John of God; Vienna Austria
| | | | - Tudor Birsan
- Department of General Surgery; Hospital St. John of God; Vienna Austria
| | - Franz Berger
- Department of General Surgery; Wilhelminen Hospital; Vienna Austria
| | - Ursula Sevelda
- Department of Gynecology; Hospital St. John of God; Vienna Austria
| | - Lisa Kirchner
- Department of Gynecology; Hospital St. John of God; Vienna Austria
| | - Mohamad Salama
- Department of Thoracic Surgery; Otto Wagner Hospital; Vienna Austria
| | - Bernhard Dauser
- Department of General Surgery; Hospital St. John of God; Vienna Austria
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24
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Guo SW. Fibrogenesis resulting from cyclic bleeding: the Holy Grail of the natural history of ectopic endometrium. Hum Reprod 2018; 33:353-356. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dey015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sun-Wei Guo
- Institute of Obstetric and Gynecological Research, Shanghai Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, 419 Fangxie Road, Shanghai 200011, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, 413 Zhaozhou Road, Shanghai 200011, China
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25
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Rudzitis-Auth J, Nickels RM, Menger MD, Laschke MW. Inhibition of Cyclooxygenase-2 Suppresses the Recruitment of Endothelial Progenitor Cells in the Microvasculature of Endometriotic Lesions. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2018; 188:450-460. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2017.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2017] [Revised: 09/04/2017] [Accepted: 10/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Laschke MW, Menger MD. Basic mechanisms of vascularization in endometriosis and their clinical implications. Hum Reprod Update 2018; 24:207-224. [PMID: 29377994 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmy001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2017] [Revised: 12/19/2017] [Accepted: 01/01/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vascularization is a major hallmark in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. An increasing number of studies suggests that multiple mechanisms contribute to the vascularization of endometriotic lesions, including angiogenesis, vasculogenesis and inosculation. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE In this review, we provide an overview of the basic mechanisms of vascularization in endometriosis and give special emphasis on their future clinical implications in the diagnosis and therapy of the disease. SEARCH METHODS Literature searches were performed in PubMed for English articles with the key words 'endometriosis', 'endometriotic lesions', 'angiogenesis', 'vascularization', 'vasculogenesis', 'endothelial progenitor cells' and 'inosculation'. The searches included both animal and human studies. No restriction was set for the publication date. OUTCOMES The engraftment of endometriotic lesions is typically associated with angiogenesis, i.e. the formation of new blood vessels from pre-existing ones. This angiogenic process underlies the complex regulation by angiogenic growth factors and hormones, which activate intracellular pathways and associated signaling molecules. In addition, circulating endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) are mobilized from the bone marrow and recruited into endometriotic lesions, where they are incorporated into the endothelium of newly developing microvessels, referred to as vasculogenesis. Finally, preformed microvessels in shed endometrial fragments inosculate with the surrounding host microvasculature, resulting in a rapid blood supply to the ectopic tissue. These vascularization modes offer different possibilities for the establishment of novel diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Angiogenic growth factors and EPCs may serve as biomarkers for the diagnosis and classification of endometriosis. Blood vessel formation and mature microvessels in endometriotic lesions may be targeted by means of anti-angiogenic compounds and vascular-disrupting agents. WIDER IMPLICATIONS The establishment of vascularization-based approaches in the management of endometriosis still represents a major challenge. For diagnostic purposes, reliable angiogenic and vasculogenic biomarker panels exhibiting a high sensitivity and specificity must be identified. For therapeutic purposes, novel compounds selectively targeting the vascularization of endometriotic lesions without inducing severe side effects are required. Recent progress in the field of endometriosis research indicates that these goals may be achieved in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias W Laschke
- Institute for Clinical & Experimental Surgery, Saarland University, 66421 Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Michael D Menger
- Institute for Clinical & Experimental Surgery, Saarland University, 66421 Homburg/Saar, Germany
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Hudelist G, Tammaa A, Aas-Eng MK, Kirchner L, Fritzer N, Nemeth Z, Lamche M. Outcome of sonography-based minimally invasive surgery for deep infiltrating endometriosis of the ureter and urinary bladder - a retrospective cohort study. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2017; 97:277-284. [DOI: 10.1111/aogs.13279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2017] [Accepted: 11/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Gernot Hudelist
- Department of Gynecology; Hospital St. John of God; Vienna Austria
| | - Ayman Tammaa
- Department of Obsterics and Gynecology; Wilhelminen Hospital; Vienna Austria
| | | | - Lisa Kirchner
- Department of Gynecology; Hospital St. John of God; Vienna Austria
| | - Nadja Fritzer
- Department of Obsterics and Gynecology; Wilhelminen Hospital; Vienna Austria
| | - Zoltan Nemeth
- Department of Gynecology; Hospital St. John of God; Vienna Austria
| | - Michael Lamche
- Department of Urology; Hospital St. John of God; Vienna Austria
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28
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Liu X, Zhang Q, Guo SW. Histological and Immunohistochemical Characterization of the Similarity and Difference Between Ovarian Endometriomas and Deep Infiltrating Endometriosis. Reprod Sci 2017; 25:329-340. [PMID: 28718381 DOI: 10.1177/1933719117718275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Ovarian endometrioma (OMA) and deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) have long been recognized to have different histology and, as such, postulated to be 2 separate disease entities. Few studies, however, have attempted to elucidate the causes for their differences. Making use of ectopic endometrial tissue samples from 25 and 20 women with OMA and DIE, respectively, and control endometrial tissue samples from 25 women without endometriosis, we conducted an immunohistochemical analysis to evaluate the expression of a group of carefully chosen markers for epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transdifferentiation (FMT), smooth muscle metaplasia (SMM), fibrosis, vascularity, hormonal receptors, and proteins involved in epigenetic modifications. We found that both OMA and DIE lesions exhibited the same cellular changes consistent with EMT, FMT, SMM, and fibrosis as already shown in animal models. Compared to OMA, DIE lesions underwent more thorough and extensive EMT, FMT, and SMM and, consequently, displayed significantly higher fibrotic content but less vascularity. The 2 conditions also showed different expression levels of hormonal receptors. Both OMA and DIE lesions, especially the latter, showed significantly higher staining of enhancer of zeste homolog 2, H3K9me3, and H3K27me3 than that of control endometrium, suggesting progressive epigenetic changes concomitant with cellular ones. Finally, proteins that are known to be involved in fibrogenesis, such as thymocyte differentiation antigen 1 and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ , were also aberrantly expressed under both conditions. The many similarities shared by both OMA and DIE indicate that the 2 conditions may actually share the same pathogenesis/pathophysiology. Their differences, however, suggest that the source of these differences may result from the different lesional microenvironments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xishi Liu
- 1 Shanghai Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- 2 Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- 1 Shanghai Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Sun-Wei Guo
- 1 Shanghai Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- 2 Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Shanghai, China
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29
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayasree Sengupta
- Department of Physiology; All India Institute of Medical Sciences; New Delhi India
| | - G. Anupa
- Department of Physiology; All India Institute of Medical Sciences; New Delhi India
| | - Muzaffer Ahmed Bhat
- Department of Physiology; All India Institute of Medical Sciences; New Delhi India
| | - Debabrata Ghosh
- Department of Physiology; All India Institute of Medical Sciences; New Delhi India
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30
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Edwards AK, Olariu I, Nakamura DS, Ahn SH, Tayade C. Chronic effects of an anti-angiogenic thrombospondin-1 mimetic peptide, ABT-898, on female mouse reproductive outcomes. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2016; 14:56. [PMID: 27604347 PMCID: PMC5015213 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-016-0192-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2015] [Accepted: 08/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Angiogenesis is an essential process in endometriosis disease progression. Earlier, we demonstrated that anti-angiogenic peptide, ABT-898 prevents neoangiogenesis of human endometriotic lesions in a xenograft mouse model. Since angiogenesis is essential for normal ovarian and uterine function, we evaluated effects of ABT-898 on normal female reproductive processes in mice. METHODS Cycling female C57BL/6N mice were dosed with ABT-898 (100 mg/kg) or 5 % dextrose control for 21 consecutive days to cover multiple estrous cycles (average estrous cycle 4 to 5 days in mice). Pregnant female mice were dosed with ABT-898 (100 mg/kg) or control on alternate days over the course of gestation, beginning at gestation day 7.5 to 17.5 (gestation length 21 days). Histological analysis along with CD31 and Vimentin immunohistochemistry were performed on ovaries and uteri obtained from treated and control mice. To understand the influence of ABT-898 on systemic angiogenic factors, a Pro Mouse Cytokine 9-plex assay was performed on plasma samples obtained from mice prior to treatment, during the second week of ABAT-898 or control treatment and on the last day of treatment. RESULTS ABT-898 did not affect the number of estrous cycles over the 21 day treatment compared to control. Histological analysis of ovaries found no difference in the number of primordial, primary, secondary, and antral follicles between ABT-898 treated and control groups. Similarly, no difference was observed in the microvessel density between ABT-898 treated and control uteri, ovarian follicles or corpus luteum when assessed using CD31 or vimentin immunohistochemistry. Electron microscopy revealed similar capillary structure and appearance in both ABT-898 treated and control uteri. Although peripheral blood angiogenic cytokine profiles (IL-15, IL-18, M-CSF, b-FGF, PDGF-bb, MIG, MIP-2, LIF and VEGF) changed over the course of the intervention, there was no significant difference between ABT-898 and control groups at any of the studied time points. Treatment with ABT-898 during pregnancy had no effect on litter size at birth, pup weight at birth or pup weight at weaning. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that ABT-898 may not alter angiogenesis dependent reproductive processes in female mice. However, an extensive reproductive toxicology screening is required to substantiate use of ABT-898 in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew K. Edwards
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen’s University, 18 Stuart Street, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6 Canada
| | - Irina Olariu
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen’s University, 18 Stuart Street, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6 Canada
| | - Diane S. Nakamura
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen’s University, 18 Stuart Street, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6 Canada
| | - Soo Hyun Ahn
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen’s University, 18 Stuart Street, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6 Canada
| | - Chandrakant Tayade
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen’s University, 18 Stuart Street, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6 Canada
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Vlek SL, Lier MCI, Ankersmit M, Ket JCF, Dekker JJML, Mijatovic V, Tuynman JB. Laparoscopic Imaging Techniques in Endometriosis Therapy: A Systematic Review. J Minim Invasive Gynecol 2016; 23:886-92. [PMID: 27393283 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmig.2016.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2016] [Revised: 06/28/2016] [Accepted: 06/29/2016] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a common disease associated with pelvic pain and subfertility. Laparoscopic surgical treatment has proven effective in endometriosis, but is hampered by a high rate of recurrence. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the intraoperative identification of endometriosis by enhanced laparoscopic imaging techniques, focusing on sensitivity and specificity. A systematic review was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science. Published prospective studies reporting on enhanced laparoscopic imaging techniques during endometriosis surgery were included. General study characteristics and reported outcomes, including sensitivity and specificity, were extracted. Nine studies were eligible for inclusion. Three techniques were described: 5-ALA fluorescence (5-ALA), autofluorescence (AFI), and narrow-band imaging (NBI). The reported sensitivity of 5-ALA and AFI for identifying endometriosis ranged from 91% to 100%, compared with 48% to 69% for conventional white light laparoscopy (WL). A randomized controlled trial comparing NBI + WL with WL alone reported better sensitivity of NBI (100% vs 79%; p < .001). All 9 studies reported an enhanced detection rate of endometriotic lesions with enhanced imaging techniques. Enhanced imaging techniques are a promising additive for laparoscopic detection and treatment of endometriosis. The 5-ALA, AFI, and NBI intraoperative imaging techniques had a better detection rate for peritoneal endometriosis compared with conventional WL laparoscopy. None of the studies reported clinical data regarding outcomes. Future studies should address long-term results, such as quality of life, recurrence, and need for reoperation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stijn L Vlek
- Department of Surgery, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Endometriosis Center, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - M C I Lier
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Endometriosis Center, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M Ankersmit
- Department of Surgery, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Johannes C F Ket
- Medical Library, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - J J M L Dekker
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Endometriosis Center, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - V Mijatovic
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Endometriosis Center, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - J B Tuynman
- Department of Surgery, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Endometriosis Center, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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KOUKOURA OURANIA, SIFAKIS STAVROS, SPANDIDOS DEMETRIOSA. DNA methylation in endometriosis (Review). Mol Med Rep 2016; 13:2939-48. [PMID: 26934855 PMCID: PMC4805102 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2016.4925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2016] [Accepted: 02/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is defined by the presence and growth of functional endometrial tissue, outside the uterine cavity, primarily in the ovaries, pelvic peritoneum and rectovaginal septum. Although it is a benign disease, it presents with malignant characteristics, such as invasion to surrounding tissues, metastasis to distant locations and recurrence following treatment. Accumulating evidence suggests that various epigenetic aberrations may play an essential role in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. Aberrant DNA methylation represents a possible mechanism repsonsible for this disease, linking gene expression alterations observed in endometriosis with hormonal and environmental factors. Several lines of evidence indicate that endometriosis may partially be due to selective epigenetic deregulations influenced by extrinsic factors. Previous studies have shed light into the epigenetic component of endometriosis, reporting variations in the epigenetic patterns of genes known to be involved in the aberrant hormonal, immunologic and inflammatory status of endometriosis. Although recent studies, utilizing advanced molecular techniques, have allowed us to further elucidate the possible association of DNA methylation with altered gene expression, whether these molecular changes represent the cause or merely the consequence of the disease is a question which remains to be answered. This review provides an overview of the current literature on the role of DNA methylation in the pathophysiology and malignant evolution of endometriosis. We also provide insight into the mechanisms through which DNA methylation-modifying agents may be the next step in the research of the pharmaceutical treatment of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- OURANIA KOUKOURA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa 41500, Greece
| | - STAVROS SIFAKIS
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Heraklion, Heraklion 71003, Greece
| | - DEMETRIOS A. SPANDIDOS
- Laboratory of Clinical Virology, University of Crete Medical School, Heraklion 71409, Greece
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Filippi I, Carrarelli P, Luisi S, Batteux F, Chapron C, Naldini A, Petraglia F. Different Expression of Hypoxic and Angiogenic Factors in Human Endometriotic Lesions. Reprod Sci 2015; 23:492-7. [DOI: 10.1177/1933719115607978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Irene Filippi
- Cellular and Molecular Physiology Unit, Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Patrizia Carrarelli
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, “S. Maria alle Scotte” Hospital, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Stefano Luisi
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, “S. Maria alle Scotte” Hospital, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Frederic Batteux
- Department of Immunology, Hôpital Cochin, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Inserm, Unité de Recherche, Institut Cochin, CNRS, Paris, France
| | - Charles Chapron
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Inserm, Unité de Recherche, Institut Cochin, CNRS, Paris, France
- Department of Gynecology Obstetrics II and Reproductive Medicine, Université Paris Descartes, Sorbone Paris Cité, Faculté de Médecine, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Groupe Hospitalier Universitaire Ouest, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Antonella Naldini
- Cellular and Molecular Physiology Unit, Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Felice Petraglia
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, “S. Maria alle Scotte” Hospital, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
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Ahn SH, Monsanto SP, Miller C, Singh SS, Thomas R, Tayade C. Pathophysiology and Immune Dysfunction in Endometriosis. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 2015:795976. [PMID: 26247027 PMCID: PMC4515278 DOI: 10.1155/2015/795976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 195] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2014] [Accepted: 11/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent, chronic, proinflammatory disease prevalent in 10% of women of reproductive age worldwide. Characterized by the growth of endometrium-like tissue in aberrant locations outside of the uterus, it is responsible for symptoms including chronic pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, and subfertility that degrade quality of life of women significantly. In Canada, direct and indirect economic cost of endometriosis amounts to 1.8 billion dollars, and this is elevated to 20 billion dollars in the United States. Despite decades of research, the etiology and pathophysiology of endometriosis still remain to be elucidated. This review aims to bring together the current understanding regarding the pathogenesis of endometriosis with specific focus on mechanisms behind vascularization of the lesions and the contribution of immune factors in facilitating lesion establishment and development. The role of hormones, immune cells, and cytokine signaling is highlighted, in addition to discussing the current pharmaceutical options available for management of pain symptoms in women with endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soo Hyun Ahn
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada K7L 3N6
| | - Stephany P. Monsanto
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada K7L 3N6
| | - Caragh Miller
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada K7L 3N6
| | - Sukhbir S. Singh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Ottawa, The Ottawa Hospital, ON, Canada K1H 7W9
| | - Richard Thomas
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kingston General Hospital, Kingston, ON, Canada K7L 3N6
| | - Chandrakant Tayade
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada K7L 3N6
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Che XH, Chen YC, Chen CL, Ye XL, Zhu H. Non-hormonal targets underlying endometriosis: A focus on molecular mechanisms. Mol Reprod Dev 2015; 82:410-31. [PMID: 25982890 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2015] [Accepted: 04/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-hang Che
- Division of Drugs and Pharmacology; Ningbo Institute of Medical Sciences; Ningbo China
- College of Chemistry and Bio-engineering; Yichun University; Yichun China
- Cancer Institute; Yinzhou People's Hospital; Ningbo China
| | - Yi-chen Chen
- Division of Drugs and Pharmacology; Ningbo Institute of Medical Sciences; Ningbo China
| | - Chun-lin Chen
- College of Chemistry and Bio-engineering; Yichun University; Yichun China
| | - Xiao-lei Ye
- Division of Drugs and Pharmacology; Ningbo Institute of Medical Sciences; Ningbo China
- Cancer Institute; Yinzhou People's Hospital; Ningbo China
| | - Hong Zhu
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology; Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University School of Medicine; Ningbo China
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Cakmak B, Cavusoglu T, Ates U, Meral A, Nacar MC, Erbaş O. Regression of experimental endometriotic implants in a rat model with the angiotensin II receptor blocker losartan. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2014; 41:601-7. [PMID: 25302540 DOI: 10.1111/jog.12558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2014] [Accepted: 07/31/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
AIM Endometriosis is a common disease in women of reproductive age, and many different treatments have been developed, although none has provided a cure. In this study, the efficacy of losartan, an angiotensin II type 1 receptor blocker and an antiangiogenic and anti-inflammatory agent, on regression of experimental endometriotic implants in a rat model was investigated. METHODS Peritoneal endometriosis was surgically induced in 16 mature female Sprague-Dawley rats. The peritoneal endometriotic implant was confirmed after 28 days, and the animals were divided randomly into two groups. The control group (n = 8) was given 4 mL/day tap water by oral gavage, and the losartan group (n = 8) was given 20 mg/kg per day losartan p.o. We compared endometriotic implant size, extent and severity of adhesion, as well as plasma and peritoneal lavage fluid cytokine levels including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, plasma inflammatory factor pentraxin-3 (PTX-3) and C-reactive protein (CRP) between the treatment groups. RESULTS Mean surface endometriotic area, histological score of implants, adhesion formation, plasma VEGF, TNF, PTX-3 and CRP levels were significantly lower in the losartan group compared with control (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the peritoneal VEGF level was lower in the losartan group than in the control group (P < 0.001), but peritoneal TNF-α was similar in both groups (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION Losartan suppressed the implant surface area of experimental endometriosis in rats and reduced the levels of plasma VEGF, TNF-α, PTX-3 and CRP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bulent Cakmak
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Gaziosmanpasa University, Tokat
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Edwards AK, Ramesh S, Singh V, Tayade C. A peptide inhibitor of synuclein-γ reduces neovascularization of human endometriotic lesions. Mol Hum Reprod 2014; 20:1002-8. [PMID: 25024138 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gau054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a chronic painful gynecological condition characterized by adherence and growth of endometrium outside of the uterine cavity. Neovascularization is essential to the developing endometriosis lesion to support its growth. Synuclein-γ (SNCG), a protein implicated in cellular proliferation, is associated with a broad range of malignancies as well as endometriosis. We hypothesized that SNCG plays an important role in the neovascularization and growth of endometriosis and blocking of SNCG will interfere with survival of endometriotic lesions in a mouse model. We developed SP012, a novel 12 amino acid peptide inhibitor of SNCG. SP012 inhibited three-dimensional endothelial cell tube formation in a dose-dependent manner. Using intravital microscopy, SP012 was shown to be successfully delivered to human endometriotic lesions in a xenograft mouse model in vivo. Alymphoid (BALB/c-Rag2-/-Il2rγ-/- lacking T, B and NK cells) mice were surgically induced with human endometriotic lesions and treated with SP012 or phosphate-buffered saline control. SP012 treated endometriotic lesions had decreased growth, development and vascularization at the time of necroscopy. Endometriotic lesions treated with SP012 also had fewer isolectin (+) microvessels. These results, using a mouse model, indicate that SNCG plays a role in the neovascularization and subsequent growth of human endometriotic lesions. Targeting SNCG function using peptide inhibitor might provide a potential therapeutic option for the treatment of endometriosis in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Kenneth Edwards
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada, K7L 3N6
| | - Sharanya Ramesh
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada, K7L 3N6
| | - Vinay Singh
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada, K7L 3N6
| | - Chandrakant Tayade
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada, K7L 3N6
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Antiangiogenesis therapy of endometriosis using PAMAM as a gene vector in a noninvasive animal model. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 2014:546479. [PMID: 25050361 PMCID: PMC4094709 DOI: 10.1155/2014/546479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2014] [Revised: 04/24/2014] [Accepted: 05/29/2014] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the characteristics and antiangiogenic effects of endostatin-loaded PAMAM on endometriosis in a noninvasive animal model. MATERIALS AND METHODS A noninvasive animal model was established by injecting adenovirus-GFP transfected endometrial stromal and glandular epithelial cells subcutaneously into nude mice. Endostatin-loaded PAMAM was prepared and identified by transmission electron microscopy. For in vitro studies, the DNA protection and cytotoxicity of PAMAM were investigated and compared with Lipofectamine 2000. For in vivo study, endostatin-loaded PAMAM was injected into the noninvasive model and evaluated by continuously observing the fluorescent lesion, lesion weight, microvessel density and VEGF immunostaining. RESULTS Compared with Lipofectamine 2000, PAMAM and HC PAMAM-ES group, MC PAMAM-ES group and LC PAMAM-ES group demonstrated a better stromal cells protective such that MC PAMAM-ES group of CCK8 was 0.617 ± 0.122 at 24 hr and 0.668 ± 0.143 at 48 hr and LC PAMAM-ES group of CCK8 was 0.499 ± 0.103 at 24 hr and 0.610 ± 0.080 at 48 hr in stromal cells (P < 0.05) but similar cytotoxicity in glandular epithelial cells in vitro. After 16 hrs of digestion, DNA decreased slightly under the protection of PAMAM. Endostatin-loaded PAMAM of HD PAMAM-ES group and LD PAMAM-ES group inhibited the growth of the endometriotic lesion in vivo at days 15, 20, 25 and 30 detected by noninvasive observation after injecting one dose endostatin of various medicines into the endometrial lesion in each mouse on day 10 (P < 0.05) and confirmed by lesion weight at day 30 with HD PAMAM-ES group being 0.0104 ± 0.0077 g and LD PAMAM-ES group being 0.0140 ± 0.0097 g (P < 0.05). Immunohistochemistry results showed that endostatin-loaded PAMAM reduced the microvessel density 3.8 ± 2.4 especially in HD PAMAM-ES group in the lesion (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION Endostatin-loaded PAMAM inhibits the development of endometriosis through an antiangiogenic mechanism and can be observed through the noninvasive endometriosis model.
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Hamid AMSA, Madkour WAI, Moawad A, Elzaher MA, Roberts MP. Does cabergoline help in decreasing endometrioma size compared to LHRH agonist? A prospective randomized study. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2014; 290:677-82. [PMID: 24748338 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-014-3242-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2013] [Accepted: 03/31/2014] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
AIM The aim of this study was to compare the efficiency of dopamine agonist, Cabergoline, in decreasing the size of endometrioma, with that of luteinizing hormone releasing hormone (LHRH) agonist, triptorelin acetate. STUDY This was a prospective, randomized study. SETTING The setting was in two private medical centers in the UAE, from January 2011 to February 2012. PATIENTS AND METHODS One hundred and forty patients complaining of endometrioma, and fulfilling the eligibility criteria, were chosen and divided into two groups as follows: Group I comprised 71 patients; all of them received Cabergoline tablets, 0.5 mg tablets, twice per week for 12 weeks. Group II comprised 69 patients; all of them received LHRH agonist, decapeptyl, 3.75 mg subcutaneous, single injection, once a month for 3 months. All patients underwent vaginal ultrasound before and after the treatment period to compare the change in the size of endometrioma by the same sonography team in each hospital that was blind to the treatment groups. OUTCOME The outcome was measured by the changes in the endometrioma size by vaginal ultrasound after completion of the 3 months' treatment period. The management line was considered to be significantly effective if the endometrioma size was reduced by more than 25 % of its original pretreatment size. RESULTS Group I: 46 out of the 71 patients (64.7 %) had significant decrease in endometrioma size. Group II: 15 out of 69 patients (21.7 %) had significant decrease in endometrioma size. Paired t test to compare the means of the two groups was highly significant (p < 0.05) CONCLUSION: Cabergoline (dostinex) yields better results in decreasing the size of endometrioma, compared to LHRH-agonist by exerting antiangiogenic effects through vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR-2) inactivation. It has no major side effects, easier to administer, and cheaper than LHRH agonists.
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Braza-Boïls A, Marí-Alexandre J, Gilabert J, Sánchez-Izquierdo D, España F, Estellés A, Gilabert-Estellés J. MicroRNA expression profile in endometriosis: its relation to angiogenesis and fibrinolytic factors. Hum Reprod 2014; 29:978-88. [PMID: 24608518 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deu019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Could an aberrant microRNA (miRNA) expression profile be responsible for the changes in the angiogenic and fibrinolytic states observed in endometriotic lesions? SUMMARY ANSWER This study revealed characteristic miRNA expression profiles associated with endometriosis in endometrial tissue and endometriotic lesions from the same patient and their correlation with the most important angiogenic and fibrinolytic factors. WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN?: An important role for dysregulated miRNA expression in the pathogenesis of endometriosis is well documented. However, to the best of our knowledge, there are no reports of the relationship between angiogenic and fibrinolytic factors and miRNAs when endometrial tissue and different types of endometriotic lesions from the same patient are compared. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Case-control study that involved 51 women with endometriosis and 32 women without the disease (controls). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The miRNA expression profiles were determined using the GeneChip miRNA 2.0 Affymetrix array platform, and the results were analysed using Partek Genomic Suite software. To validate the obtained results, 12 miRNAs differentially expressed were quantified by using miRCURY LNA™ Universal RT microRNA PCR. Levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF-A), thrombospondin-1 (TSP-1), urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA) and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) proteins were quantified by ELISA. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Patient endometrial tissue showed significantly lower levels of miR-202-3p, miR-424-5p, miR-449b-3p and miR-556-3p, and higher levels of VEGF-A and uPA than healthy (control) endometrium. However, tissue affected by ovarian endometrioma showed significantly lower expression of miR-449b-3p than endometrium from both controls and patients, and higher levels of PAI-1 and the angiogenic inhibitor TSP-1. A significant inverse correlation between miR-424-5p and VEGF-A protein levels was observed in patient endometrium, and an inverse correlation between miR-449b-3p and TSP-1 protein levels was observed in ovarian endometrioma. Peritoneal implants had significantly higher levels of VEGF-A than ovarian endometrioma samples. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Functional studies are needed to confirm the specific targets of the miRNAs differently expressed. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Differences in miRNA levels could modulate the expression of VEGF-A and TSP-1, which may play an important role in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. The higher angiogenic and proteolytic activities observed in eutopic endometrium from patients might facilitate the implantation of endometrial cells at ectopic sites. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by research grants from ISCIII-FEDER (PI11/0091, Red RIC RD12/0042/0029), Consellería de Educación-Generalitat Valenciana (PROMETEO/2011/027), Beca de Investigación Fundación Dexeus para la Salud de la Mujer (2011/0469), and by Fundación Investigación Hospital La Fe (2011/211). A.B-B. has a Contrato Posdoctoral de Perfeccionamiento Sara Borrell-ISCIII (CD13/00005). J.M-A. has a predoctoral grant PFIS-ISCIII (FI12/00012). The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aitana Braza-Boïls
- Grupo de Hemostasia, Trombosis, Arteriosclerosis y Biología Vascular, Instituto Investigación Sanitaria Hospital La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
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Krüger K, Gilly L, Niedobitek-Kreuter G, Mpinou L, Ebert AD. Bladder endometriosis: characterization by magnetic resonance imaging and the value of documenting ureteral involvement. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2014; 176:39-43. [PMID: 24630292 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2014.02.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2013] [Revised: 01/25/2014] [Accepted: 02/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To characterize bladder endometriosis by MRI and assess aspects of ureteral involvement. STUDY DESIGN From 2007 to 2013, bladder endometriosis was diagnosed, surgically treated and histopathologically verified in 18 patients (mean age 31.7±4.6 years) retrospectively enrolled under a published MRI protocol at our hospital's Endometriosis Center. Preoperatively, to diagnose disease spread, cystoscopy was performed and MRI in the following sequences: T2-TSE and T1-SE with and without fat saturation in the sagittal and transversal planes after rectovaginal opacification. Nine patients additionally underwent a diffusion-weighted sequence, including calculation of the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC). By consensus, two experienced radiologists, without prior knowledge of the surgical or cystoscopic findings, retrospectively characterized bladder endometriosis on the MRI scans, also determining anatomic position, size, sequence-dependent features and incidence of hemorrhages, and calculating ADC. The scans were also investigated to determine if MRI could detect ureteral involvement intercurrent with bladder endometriosis. RESULTS Endometriosis localizations were bladder roof, n=1 (5.6%) and back wall, n=17 (94.4%). Mean lesion size was 3.65±1.5ml. Lesions exhibited a lower signal intensity in T2- than in T1-weighted images. High-signal-intensity spots showed an occurrence of 72.2% in fat-suppressed T1-weighted and 61.1% in T2-weighted sequences. Mean ADC was 1251.6±220.9mm(2)/s. By MRI, it was not possible to differentiate wall layers and hence infiltration depth. The bladder endometriosis of two women showed direct involvement with the right ureter. Furthermore, one woman had endometriosis of the left distal ureter in addition to bladder endometriosis. All cases of ureteral involvement were detected by MRI. CONCLUSIONS Characteristic MRI features of bladder endometriosis were found to be low signal intensity in T2-weighted and high-signal-intensity spots in T1- and T2-weighted sequences. Standard-sequence MRI was capable of detecting ureteral involvement, but not bladder wall infiltration depth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karsten Krüger
- Department of Radiology, Vivantes Humboldt Hospital, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Lana Gilly
- Department of Radiology, Vivantes Humboldt Hospital, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Layla Mpinou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vivantes Humboldt Hospital, Berlin, Germany
| | - Andreas D Ebert
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vivantes Humboldt Hospital, Berlin, Germany
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Feng D, Menger MD, Laschke MW. Vascular disrupting effects of combretastatin A4 phosphate on murine endometriotic lesions. Fertil Steril 2013; 100:1459-67. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2013.07.1967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2013] [Revised: 07/15/2013] [Accepted: 07/16/2013] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Edwards AK, Nakamura DS, Virani S, Wessels JM, Tayade C. Animal models for anti-angiogenic therapy in endometriosis. J Reprod Immunol 2013; 97:85-94. [PMID: 23432875 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2012.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2012] [Revised: 10/10/2012] [Accepted: 10/16/2012] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a gynecological disease characterized by the growth of endometrium outside of the uterine cavity. It is often associated with dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, pelvic pain and infertility. One of the key requirements for endometriotic lesions to survive is development of a blood supply to support their growth. Indeed, dense vascularization is characteristic feature of endometriotic lesions. This has led to the idea that suppression of blood vessel growth (anti-angiogenic therapy) may be a successful therapeutic approach for endometriosis. Potential effectiveness of anti-angiogenic therapies has been assessed in some animal models but there are no reports of human clinical trials. Without understanding the specific mechanism by which endometriosis lesions establish a new blood supply, short-term animal experiments will have limited value for translation into human medicine. Further, it is crucial to use appropriate animal models to assess efficacy of anti-angiogenic compounds. Syngeneic and autologous rodent models, where endometrial fragments are auto-transplanted into the peritoneal cavity are commonly used in anti-angiogenic therapy studies. Another approach is xenograft models where human endometrium is engrafted into immunodeficient mice. Here we review the animal models and experimental techniques used to evaluate anti-angiogenic therapies for endometriosis. We also review our own work on the role of stromal cell derived factor-1 in the recruitment of endothelial progenitor cells in endometriotic lesion angiogenesis, and the effects of the anti-angiogenic peptide ABT-898, a thrombospondin-1 mimetic, on endometriotic lesion growth and vascular development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew K Edwards
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
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Krüger K, Behrendt K, Niedobitek-Kreuter G, Koltermann K, Ebert AD. Location-dependent value of pelvic MRI in the preoperative diagnosis of endometriosis. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2013; 169:93-8. [PMID: 23478073 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2013.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2012] [Revised: 12/05/2012] [Accepted: 02/03/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate the value of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the preoperative diagnosis of specific anatomical locations of endometriosis. STUDY DESIGN Between July 2008 and April 2011, 152 women (mean age 33.5 ± 6.1 years) with clinical and sonographic suspicion of endometriosis underwent pelvic MRI using T2 and unenhanced T1 sequences with and without fat saturation. Two radiologists interpreted the following regions by consensus according to a standardized protocol: ovaries, vagina, pouch of Douglas, rectosigmoid colon, uterosacral ligament (USL), bladder, peritoneum, and other pelvic regions. The results of MRI were retrospectively correlated with the laparoscopic and histopathologic findings. The main outcome parameters, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), accuracy, positive likelihood ratio (LR+) and the negative likelihood ratio (LR-), were determined. RESULTS Sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, accuracy, positive and the negative likelihood ratio were 87.6%, 84.6%, 94.3%, 70.2%, 86.8%, 5.69 and 0.15 for the pouch of Douglas (vagina: 81.4%, 81.7%, 79.2%, 83.8%, 81.6%, 4.45, 0.23; rectosigmoid colon: 80.2%, 77.5%, 80.2%, 77.5%, 78.9%, 3.56, 0.25; USL: 77.5%, 68.2%, 77.5%, 68.2%, 73.7%, 2.44, 0.33; ovaries: 86.3%, 73.6%, 78.4%, 82.8%, 80.3%, 3.27, 0.19; urinary bladder: 81.0%, 94.7%, 70.8%, 96.9%, 92.8%, 15.15, 0.20; peritoneum: 35.3%, 88.1%, 60.0%, 73.0%, 70.4%, 2.97, 0.73). All endometriotic implants at other localization were detected (abdominal wall in 4, groin in one patient). CONCLUSIONS The value of MRI in preoperative diagnosis of endometriosis is dependent on the location of endometriosis. The highest accuracy was found in bladder endometriosis and the lowest in peritoneal endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karsten Krüger
- Department of Radiology, Vivantes - Network for Health, Humboldt-Hospital, Berlin, Germany.
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Vascular endothelial growth factor C is increased in endometrium and promotes endothelial functions, vascular permeability and angiogenesis and growth of endometriosis. Angiogenesis 2013; 16:541-51. [PMID: 23334337 DOI: 10.1007/s10456-013-9333-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2012] [Accepted: 01/09/2013] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis is an angiogenesis-dependent disease. Many studies demonstrated inhibition of angiogenesis leads to inhibition of endometriotic growth, however underlying mechanism is still not fully understood. Our previous study suggested vascular endothelial growth factor C (VEGF-C) as a target of anti-angiogenesis therapy for endometriosis. In this study, VEGF-C in endometrium and its role in angiogenesis of endometriosis were studied. Human endometrium were obtained from women with and without endometriosis for molecular studies. VEGF-A, VEGF-B, VEGF-C and VEGF-D mRNA and proteins in eutopic and ectopic endometrium were measured. Human endothelial cells were transfected with VEGF-C siRNA in vitro, effects of VEGF-C on endothelial cell migration, invasion and tube formation were investigated in vitro. Angiogenesis was inhibited in wild type mice, vascular permeability in dermal skin was determined in vivo. Transplanted endometrium were inhibited by VEGF-C siRNA in immunocompromised mice, development, growth and angiogenesis of the experimental endometriosis were compared in vivo. The results showed that VEGF-C mRNA and protein were increased in eutopic and ectopic endometrium of endometriosis patients. VEGF-C siRNA significantly inhibited endothelial cell migration and tube formation. VEGF-C siRNA significantly inhibited development and angiogenesis of the experimental endometriotic lesions in mice. Supplementation and over-expression of VEGF-C significantly reversed the inhibitory effects on the endothelial functions, vascular permeability and endometriotic growth. In conclusion, VEGF-C is increased in endometrium and it promotes endothelial functions, vascular permeability and development of experimental endometriosis. VEGF-C is important for angiogenesis in endometriosis.
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Seckin B, Oruc AS, Turkcapar F, Ugur M. The relation of pelvic pain and dense adhesions to Doppler ultrasound findings in patients with ovarian endometriomas. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2012. [PMID: 23179800 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-012-2630-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To study the relation of pelvic pain symptoms and pelvic adhesions to Doppler ultrasound findings in patients with ovarian endometriomas. METHODS 62 patients who underwent laparoscopic surgery for endometrioma were divided into two groups according to their pelvic pain symptoms. Group 1 (n = 27) included patients with pelvic pain, group 2 (n = 35) asymptomatic patients. Patients were evaluated for the vascularization of endometrioma by transvaginal color and power Doppler ultrasonography before the surgery. The presence and amount of blood flow reported in terms of a color scale, pulsed Doppler indices, and dense pelvic adhesions were compared between the groups. The relation of Doppler ultrasound findings to the dense pelvic adhesions was also analyzed. RESULTS Blood flow was present in 74.1 % (n = 20) of patients in group 1 and 68.6 % (n = 24) in group 2 (p = 0.63). The volume and vascularization of the endometriomas, pulsed Doppler indices, stage of endometriosis, and the presence of dense pelvic adhesions were also similar. Patients with dense pelvic adhesions had significantly higher amount of blood flow compared to patients without adhesions (p = 0.006), but the mean pulsatility index and resistance index were not different between the groups (p = 0.55 and 0.59, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Pelvic pain symptoms were not found to be related to endometrioma vascularization. On the other hand, we observed an association between higher vascularized endometrioma and the presence of dense pelvic adhesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berna Seckin
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology and Endoscopic Surgery, Zekai Tahir Burak Women's Health Research and Education Hospital, Ankara, Turkey.
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Laschke M, Menger M. Anti-angiogenic treatment strategies for the therapy of endometriosis. Hum Reprod Update 2012; 18:682-702. [DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dms026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/30/2023] Open
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Bersinger NA, Dechaud H, McKinnon B, Mueller MD. Analysis of cytokines in the peritoneal fluid of endometriosis patients as a function of the menstrual cycle stage using the Bio-Plex® platform. Arch Physiol Biochem 2012; 118:210-8. [PMID: 22632541 DOI: 10.3109/13813455.2012.687003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Endometriosis is a painful disease affecting 10-15% of reproductive-age women. Concentrations of several cytokines and angiogenic factors in peritoneal fluid (PF) have been found to correlate with the severity of the disease. However, levels of some analytes vary across the menstrual cycle, and an ideal biomarker of endometriosis has not yet been identified. We have compared the PF concentrations of different cytokines in proliferative and secretory phases in women with and without the disease using the Bio-Plex platform. METHODS PF was aspirated during laparoscopy (N = 133) and the PF concentrations of 18 cytokines from Bio-Plex panels I and II determined with the serum protocol. RESULTS Increased PF concentrations of IL-6, IL-18, eotaxin, and MCP-1 were found in endometriosis with no changes with menstrual cycle. Levels of IL-12(p70), ICAM-1, and GRO-α were higher in the secretory phase, while eotaxin concentrations were lower. CONCLUSION Of the 18 cytokines tested, IL-6, IL-18 and MCP-1 were the best PF markers of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nick A Bersinger
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Berne, Switzerland
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Wang CC, Xu H, Man GCW, Zhang T, Chu KO, Chu CY, Cheng JTY, Li G, He YX, Qin L, Lau TS, Kwong J, Chan TH. Prodrug of green tea epigallocatechin-3-gallate (Pro-EGCG) as a potent anti-angiogenesis agent for endometriosis in mice. Angiogenesis 2012; 16:59-69. [PMID: 22948799 DOI: 10.1007/s10456-012-9299-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2012] [Accepted: 08/22/2012] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Green tea epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) can inhibit angiogenesis and development of an experimental endometriosis model in mice, but it suffers from poor bioavailability. A prodrug of EGCG (pro-EGCG, EGCG octaacetate) is utilized to enhance the stability and bioavailability of EGCG in vivo. In this study, the potential of pro-EGCG as a potent anti-angiogenesis agent for endometriosis in mice was investigated. Homologous endometrium was subcutaneously transplanted into mice to receive either saline, vitamin E, EGCG or pro-EGCG treatment for 4 weeks. The growth of the endometrial implants were monitored by IVIS(®) non-invasive in vivo imaging during the interventions. Angiogenesis of the endometriotic lesions was determined by Cellvizio(®) in vivo imaging and SCANCO(®) Microfil microtomography. The bioavailability, anti-oxidation and anti-angiogenesis capacities of the treatments were measured in plasma and lesions. The implants with adjacent outer subcutaneous and inner abdominal muscle layers were collected for histological, microvessel and apoptosis examinations. The result showed that EGCG and pro-EGCG significantly decreased the growth of endometrial implants from the 2nd week to the 4th week of intervention. EGCG and pro-EGCG significantly reduced the lesion size and weight, inhibited functional and structural microvessels in the lesions, and enhanced lesion apoptosis at the end of interventions. The inhibition by pro-EGCG in all the angiogenesis parameters was significantly greater than that by EGCG, and pro-EGCG also had better bioavailability and greater anti-oxidation and anti-angiogenesis capacities than EGCG. Ovarian follicles and uterine endometrial glands were not affected by either EGCG or pro-EGCG. Vitamin E had no effect on endometriosis. In conclusion, pro-EGCG significantly inhibited the development, growth and angiogenesis of experimental endometriosis in mice with high efficacy, bioavailability, anti-oxidation and anti-angiogenesis capacities. Pro-EGCG could be a potent anti-angiogenesis agent for endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi Chiu Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong.
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Eisenberg VH, Zolti M, Soriano D. Is there an association between autoimmunity and endometriosis? Autoimmun Rev 2012; 11:806-14. [DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2012.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2012] [Accepted: 01/20/2012] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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