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Yang Y, Lai H, Li Z, Zhang J. Endometriosis and aspirin: a systematic review. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1409469. [PMID: 39257907 PMCID: PMC11384985 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1409469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Endometriosis is delineated as a benign yet steroid-dependent disorder characterized by the ectopic presence of endometrial glandular and stromal cells outside the uterine cavity, affecting estimated 10%-15% of women of reproductive age, 20%-50% of all women with infertility and costing a great economic burden per-patient. Endometriosis exerts pervasive influence on multiple facets of female reproductive physiology. Given its characterization as a chronic inflammatory disorder, escalated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines were unequivocally recognized as well-established characteristics of endometriosis, which might attribute to mechanisms like retrograde menstruation, progesterone receptor resistance, and immune dysregulation. Therapeutic utilization of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin, analgesic agent for reducing pain, inflammation, and fever, could be holding promise in augmenting reproductive outcomes of endometriosis women. Therefore, the objective of this comprehensive review is to elucidate the intricate interplay between endometriosis and aspirin, both within the context of infertility and beyond. We meticulously explore potential pharmacological agents targeting endometriosis, which may concurrently optimize the efficacy of reproductive interventions, while also delving into the underlying mechanistic pathways linking endometriosis with inflammatory processes. Methods We conducted a comprehensive search in the data available in PubMed and the Web of Science using the terms 'endometriosis' and 'aspirin'. Then analyzed the identified articles based on established inclusion and exclusion criteria independently by three reviewers. Results The survey of the chosen terms revealed 72 articles, only 10 of which were considered for review. Discussion Based on the research available currently, it is not substantial enough to address the conclusion that aspirin shall be an effective therapeutic choice for endometriosis, further studies are needed to elucidate the efficacy, safety profile, and optimal dosing regimens of aspirin in the context of endometriosis treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, Shenzhen, China
| | - HanHong Lai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, Shenzhen, China
| | - ZhengJuan Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shenzhen People's Hospital (the Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University and the First Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, China
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Liu YN, Kang JW, Zhang Y, Song SS, Xu QX, Zhang H, Lu L, Wei SW, Liang C, Su RW. Vanillin prevents the growth of endometriotic lesions through anti-inflammatory and antioxidant pathways in a mouse model. Food Funct 2023. [PMID: 37409688 DOI: 10.1039/d3fo00750b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent chronic inflammatory gynecological disease defined by the presence of endometrial glands and mesenchyme outside the uterine cavity, named ectopic endometrium. Recent studies showed that endometriosis is associated with hormone imbalance, inflammation and oxidative stress. As the main component of vanilla bean extract, vanillin is widely used as a flavoring agent in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. It is known for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antitumor properties, but its therapeutic efficacy in endometriosis has not been studied. In this study, we evaluated the roles of vanillin in this disease using an induced endometriotic mouse model. The results showed that vanillin significantly inhibited the growth of endometrial lesions. Compared with the control group, the weight and volume of lesions were reduced considerably in the vanillin-treated group, showing its fantastic ability to inhibit cell proliferation and promote apoptosis. In addition, in the treatment group, mRNA expression of the pro-inflammatory cytokines Tnfa, Infg, Il1b, and Il6 was reduced, the number of macrophages and neutrophils was decreased, and the NF-κB signaling pathway was inhibited, indicating that vanillin suppressed the inflammatory response in the ectopic endometrium. Besides, we found that the intensity of tissue reactive oxygen species (ROS) was significantly lower, and mitochondrial complex IV expression was reduced in the vanillin-treated group. Meanwhile, treatment of the immortalized human endometriotic epithelial cell line (11Z) with vanillin resulted in the downregulation of cyclin genes that drive the cell proliferation process, inhibited cell proliferation, promoted apoptosis, and downregulated the expression of LPS-induced inflammatory cytokines. Most importantly, our data showed that the vanillin treatment had only minimal effects on the eutopic endometrium with respect to the pregnancy process, indicating its safety to be used in treating endometriosis in adults. In conclusion, our data suggest that vanillin has potential therapeutic properties for endometriosis as a regulatory molecule of cell proliferation, apoptosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Nan Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
| | - Jin-Wen Kang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
| | - Yu Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
| | - Shan-Shan Song
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
| | - Qi-Xin Xu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
| | - Han Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
| | - Lei Lu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
| | - Shu-Wen Wei
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
| | - Chen Liang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
| | - Ren-Wei Su
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
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Caruana A, Savona-Ventura C, Calleja-Agius J. COX Isozymes and Non-Uniform Neoangiogenesis: What is their role in Endometriosis? Prostaglandins Other Lipid Mediat 2023; 167:106734. [PMID: 37028470 DOI: 10.1016/j.prostaglandins.2023.106734] [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: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023]
Abstract
This literature review compared the efficacy in of NSAIDs with a placebo in pain relief and disease regression of endometriosis. Despite the poor evidence found, the results showed that NSAIDs were more effective in pain relief with regressive effects on the endometriotic lesions compared to placebo. We postulate herein that COX-2 is chiefly responsible for pain whilst COX-1 is responsible mainly for the establishment of endometriotic lesions. Hence, there must be a temporal difference in the activation of the two isozymes. We differentiated between two pathways in the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins by the COX isozymes referred to as 'direct' and indirect', supporting our initial theory. Finally, we postulate that there are two stages of neoangiogenesis in the formation of endometriotic lesions; 'founding' that first establishes blood supply and 'maintenance' that upkeeps it This is fertile ground for further research in a niche that needs more literature. Its aspects may be diversely explored. The theories we propose offer information for a more targeted treatment of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Caruana
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Malta.
| | - Charles Savona-Ventura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Malta
| | - Jean Calleja-Agius
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Malta
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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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Burns KA, Pearson AM, Slack JL, Por ED, Scribner AN, Eti NA, Burney RO. Endometriosis in the Mouse: Challenges and Progress Toward a ‘Best Fit’ Murine Model. Front Physiol 2022; 12:806574. [PMID: 35095566 PMCID: PMC8794744 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.806574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a prevalent gynecologic condition associated with pelvic pain and infertility characterized by the implantation and growth of endometrial tissue displaced into the pelvis via retrograde menstruation. The mouse is a molecularly well-annotated and cost-efficient species for modeling human disease in the therapeutic discovery pipeline. However, as a non-menstrual species with a closed tubo-ovarian junction, the mouse poses inherent challenges as a preclinical model for endometriosis research. Over the past three decades, numerous murine models of endometriosis have been described with varying degrees of fidelity in recapitulating the essential pathophysiologic features of the human disease. We conducted a search of the peer-reviewed literature to identify publications describing preclinical research using a murine model of endometriosis. Each model was reviewed according to a panel of ideal model parameters founded on the current understanding of endometriosis pathophysiology. Evaluated parameters included method of transplantation, cycle phase and type of tissue transplanted, recipient immune/ovarian status, iterative schedule of transplantation, and option for longitudinal lesion assessment. Though challenges remain, more recent models have incorporated innovative technical approaches such as in vivo fluorescence imaging and novel hormonal preparations to overcome the unique challenges posed by murine anatomy and physiology. These models offer significant advantages in lesion development and readout toward a high-fidelity mouse model for translational research in endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine A. Burns
- Department of Environmental and Public Health Sciences, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States
- *Correspondence: Katherine A. Burns,
| | - Amelia M. Pearson
- Department of Environmental and Public Health Sciences, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Jessica L. Slack
- Department of Clinical Investigation, Madigan Army Medical Center, Tacoma, WA, United States
| | - Elaine D. Por
- Department of Clinical Investigation, Madigan Army Medical Center, Tacoma, WA, United States
| | - Alicia N. Scribner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Madigan Army Medical Center, Tacoma, WA, United States
| | - Nazmin A. Eti
- Department of Environmental and Public Health Sciences, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Richard O. Burney
- Department of Clinical Investigation, Madigan Army Medical Center, Tacoma, WA, United States
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Madigan Army Medical Center, Tacoma, WA, United States
- Richard O. Burney,
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Huang Q, Liu X, Guo SW. Changing prostaglandin E2 (PGE 2) signaling during lesional progression and exacerbation of endometriosis by inhibition of PGE 2 receptor EP2 and EP4. Reprod Med Biol 2021; 21:e12426. [PMID: 34938150 PMCID: PMC8660993 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose We investigated the change, if any, in prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) signaling in endometriotic lesions of different developmental stages in mouse. In addition, we evaluated the effect of treatment of mice with induced deep endometriosis (DE) with inhibitors of PGE2 receptor subtypes EP2 and EP4 and metformin. Methods Three mouse experimentations were conducted. In Experiment 1, female Balb/C mice were induced with endometriosis or DE and were serially sacrificed after induction. Experiments 2 and 3 evaluated the effect of treatment with EP2 and EP4 inhibitors and metformin, respectively, in mice with induced DE. Immunohistochemistry analysis of COX-2, EP2, and EP4, along with the extent of lesional fibrosis, was evaluated. Results The immunostaining of COX-2, EP2, and EP4 turned from activation to a stall as lesions progressed. Treatment with EP2/EP4 inhibitors in DE mice exacerbated endometriosis-associated hyperalgesia and promoted fibrogenesis in lesions even though it suppressed the PGE2 signaling dose-dependently. In contrast, treatment with metformin resulted in increased PGE2 signaling, concomitant with improved hyperalgesia, and retarded lesional fibrogenesis. Conclusions The PGE2 signaling diminishes as endometriotic lesions progress. Treatment with EP2/EP4 inhibitors in DE mice exacerbates endometriosis, but metformin appears to be promising seemingly through the induction of the PGE2 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingqing Huang
- Shanghai OB/GYN Hospital Fudan University Shanghai China.,Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University Guangzhou China
| | - 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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7
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Huang Q, Liu X, Guo SW. Higher fibrotic content of endometriotic lesions is associated with diminished prostaglandin E2 signaling. Reprod Med Biol 2021; 21:e12423. [PMID: 34938147 PMCID: PMC8656679 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose While the prevailing view holds that the prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) signaling plays a vital role in endometriosis, PGE2 also is known to be anti-fibrotic. We investigated the immunostaining of COX-2, EP2, and EP4, along with fibrotic content in ovarian endometrioma (OE) and deep endometriosis (DE) lesions, and in OE lesions from adolescent and adult patients. In addition, we evaluated the effect of substrate stiffness on the expression of COX-2, EP2, and EP4 in endometrial stromal cells. Methods Immunohistochemistry analysis of COX-2, EP2, and EP4, along with the quantification of lesional fibrosis, was conducted for OE and DE lesion samples and also OE lesion samples from adolescent and adult patients. The effect of substrate rigidity on fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transdifferentiation (FMT) and the expression of COX-2, EP2, and EP4, with or without TGF-β1 stimulation, were investigated. Results The immunostaining of COX-2, EP2, and EP4 was substantially reduced in endometriotic lesions as lesions became more fibrotic. Both TGF-β1 stimulation and stiff substrates induced FMT and reduced the expression of COX-2, EP2, and EP4. Conclusions Since fibrosis is a common feature of endometriosis, our results thus cast doubts on the use of therapeutics that suppresses the PGE2 signaling pathway, either by inhibiting COX-2 or EP2/EP4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingqing Huang
- Shanghai OB/GYN Hospital Fudan University Shanghai China.,The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University Guangzhou Guangdong China
| | - 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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8
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Ono Y, Kawakita T, Yoshino O, Sato E, Kano K, Ohba M, Okuno T, Ito M, Koga K, Honda M, Furue A, Hiraoka T, Wada S, Iwasa T, Yokomizo T, Aoki J, Maeda N, Unno N, Osuga Y, Hirata S. Sphingosine 1-Phosphate (S1P) in the Peritoneal Fluid Skews M2 Macrophage and Contributes to the Development of Endometriosis. Biomedicines 2021; 9:1519. [PMID: 34829748 PMCID: PMC8614877 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9111519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P), an inflammatory mediator, is abundantly contained in red blood cells and platelets. We hypothesized that the S1P concentration in the peritoneal cavity would increase especially during the menstrual phase due to the reflux of menstrual blood, and investigated the S1P concentration in the human peritoneal fluid (PF) from 14 non-endometriosis and 19 endometriosis patients. Although the relatively small number of samples requires caution in interpreting the results, S1P concentration in the PF during the menstrual phase was predominantly increased compared to the non-menstrual phase, regardless of the presence or absence of endometriosis. During the non-menstrual phase, patients with endometriosis showed a significant increase in S1P concentration compared to controls. In vitro experiments using human intra-peritoneal macrophages (MΦ) showed that S1P stimulation biased them toward an M2MΦ-dominant condition and increased the expression of IL-6 and COX-2. An in vivo study showed that administration of S1P increased the size of the endometriotic-like lesion in a mouse model of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yosuke Ono
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Teine Keijinkai Hospital, Sapporo 006-08555, Japan; (Y.O.); (S.W.)
| | - Takako Kawakita
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (T.K.); (T.I.)
| | - Osamu Yoshino
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Yamanashi, Chuo 409-3898, Japan;
| | - Erina Sato
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kitasato University, Sagamihara 252-0375, Japan; (E.S.); (M.H.); (A.F.); (T.H.); (N.U.)
| | - Kuniyuki Kano
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8578, Japan; (K.K.); (J.A.)
| | - Mai Ohba
- Department of Biochemistry (I), Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan; (M.O.); (T.O.); (T.Y.)
| | - Toshiaki Okuno
- Department of Biochemistry (I), Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan; (M.O.); (T.O.); (T.Y.)
| | - Masami Ito
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan;
| | - Kaori Koga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan; (K.K.); (Y.O.)
| | - Masako Honda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kitasato University, Sagamihara 252-0375, Japan; (E.S.); (M.H.); (A.F.); (T.H.); (N.U.)
| | - Akiko Furue
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kitasato University, Sagamihara 252-0375, Japan; (E.S.); (M.H.); (A.F.); (T.H.); (N.U.)
| | - Takehiro Hiraoka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kitasato University, Sagamihara 252-0375, Japan; (E.S.); (M.H.); (A.F.); (T.H.); (N.U.)
| | - Shinichiro Wada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Teine Keijinkai Hospital, Sapporo 006-08555, Japan; (Y.O.); (S.W.)
| | - Takeshi Iwasa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan; (T.K.); (T.I.)
| | - Takehiko Yokomizo
- Department of Biochemistry (I), Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan; (M.O.); (T.O.); (T.Y.)
| | - Junken Aoki
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8578, Japan; (K.K.); (J.A.)
| | - Nagamasa Maeda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kochi University, Kochi 783-8305, Japan;
| | - Nobuya Unno
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kitasato University, Sagamihara 252-0375, Japan; (E.S.); (M.H.); (A.F.); (T.H.); (N.U.)
| | - Yutaka Osuga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan; (K.K.); (Y.O.)
| | - Shuji Hirata
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Yamanashi, Chuo 409-3898, Japan;
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Chen X, Man GCW, Hung SW, Zhang T, Fung LWY, Cheung CW, Chung JPW, Li TC, Wang CC. Therapeutic effects of green tea on endometriosis. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2021:1-14. [PMID: 34620005 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2021.1986465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a chronic disorder characterized by the presence of endometrial glands and stroma outside the uterine cavity. It affects 8%-10% of women in their reproductive years, and represents a major clinical problem with deleterious social, sexual and reproductive consequences. Current treatment options include pain relief, hormonal intervention and surgical removal. However, these treatments are deemed unsatisfactory owing to varying success, significant side effects and high recurrence rates. Green tea and its major bioactive component, (-)-epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), possess diverse biological properties, particularly anti-angiogenic, anti-proliferation, anti-metastasis, and apoptosis induction. In recent years, preclinical studies have proposed the use of green tea to inhibit the growth of endometriosis. Herein, the aim of this review is to summarize the potential therapeutic effects of green tea on molecular and cellular mechanism through inflammation, oxidative stress, invasion and adhesion, apoptosis and angiogenesis in endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Shenzhen Baoan Women's and Children's Hospital, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - Gene Chi Wai Man
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong.,Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - Sze Wan Hung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - Tao Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - Linda Wen Ying Fung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - Chun Wai Cheung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - Jacqueline Pui Wah Chung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - Tin Chiu Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong.,Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences; School of Biomedical Sciences; Chinese University of Hong Kong-Sichuan University Joint Laboratory in Reproductive Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Chi Chiu Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong.,Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences; School of Biomedical Sciences; Chinese University of Hong Kong-Sichuan University Joint Laboratory in Reproductive Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
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10
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Moini A, Azizlou Z, Hosseini R, Hosseini L. The effect of acetylsalicylic acid on pain and recurrence of endometriosis after surgery: A randomized controlled trial. JOURNAL OF ENDOMETRIOSIS AND PELVIC PAIN DISORDERS 2021. [DOI: 10.1177/22840265211049669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background: Reactive oxygen species (ROS) might increase growth and adhesion of endometrial cells in the peritoneal cavity, and lead to endometriosis. In this study the we evaluate the effect of an antioxidant, acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin), to determine whether aspirin administration to patients with endometriosis would affect pelvic pain and disease recurrence. Material and methods: This randomized controlled trial was conducted from March 2018 to March 2020 on women, 19 to 40 years of age, who were diagnosed with endometriosis after undergoing laparoscopic surgery. Study participants were randomly assigned to one of two groups, Oral contraceptive pills (OCP) and placebo or OCP and aspirin, which were administered daily for 6 months. Pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, mass size, and menstrual bleeding were evaluated at 3 and 6 months. Results: There were 38 patients in the aspirin group and 49 participants in the placebo group. The mean dysmenorrhea Visual analog scale (VAS) score after 3 months was 2.24 in the aspirin group and 3.61 in the placebo group. After 6 months, the dysmenorrhea VAS scores were 0.68 (aspirin group) and 2.69 (placebo group) ( p = 0.005 and p = 0.00, respectively). Dyspareunia and pelvic pain showed significant reductions ( p = 0.00). Six patients in the control group and four patients in the aspirin group experienced lesion recurrence ( p = 0.45). Conclusion: The results suggest that aspirin, as an antioxidant, could effectively reduce pain in women with endometriosis. However, additional studies that enroll larger numbers of participants and long-term follow up will enable better evaluation of recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashraf Moini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Arash Women’s Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility at Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Azizlou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Arash Women’s Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reihaneh Hosseini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Arash Women’s Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ladan Hosseini
- Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility at Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
- Research Development Center, Arash Women’s Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Smolko L, Špaková I, Klepcová Z, Dubayová K, Samoľová E, Rabajdová M, Mareková M. Zinc(II) niflumato complex with neocuproine: Synthesis, crystal structure, characterization and cytotoxic effects on human endometrial cell lines. J Mol Struct 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molstruc.2021.130312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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12
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Hung SW, Zhang R, Tan Z, Chung JPW, Zhang T, Wang CC. Pharmaceuticals targeting signaling pathways of endometriosis as potential new medical treatment: A review. Med Res Rev 2021; 41:2489-2564. [PMID: 33948974 PMCID: PMC8252000 DOI: 10.1002/med.21802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis (EM) is defined as endometrial tissues found outside the uterus. Growth and development of endometriotic cells in ectopic sites can be promoted via multiple pathways, including MAPK/MEK/ERK, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, NF-κB, Rho/ROCK, reactive oxidative stress, tumor necrosis factor, transforming growth factor-β, Wnt/β-catenin, vascular endothelial growth factor, estrogen, and cytokines. The underlying pathophysiological mechanisms include proliferation, apoptosis, autophagy, migration, invasion, fibrosis, angiogenesis, oxidative stress, inflammation, and immune escape. Current medical treatments for EM are mainly hormonal and symptomatic, and thus the development of new, effective, and safe pharmaceuticals targeting specific molecular and signaling pathways is needed. Here, we systematically reviewed the literature focused on pharmaceuticals that specifically target the molecular and signaling pathways involved in the pathophysiology of EM. Potential drug targets, their upstream and downstream molecules with key aberrant signaling, and the regulatory mechanisms promoting the growth and development of endometriotic cells and tissues were discussed. Hormonal pharmaceuticals, including melatonin, exerts proapoptotic via regulating matrix metallopeptidase activity while nonhormonal pharmaceutical sorafenib exerts antiproliferative effect via MAPK/ERK pathway and antiangiogenesis activity via VEGF/VEGFR pathway. N-acetyl cysteine, curcumin, and ginsenoside exert antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects via radical scavenging activity. Natural products have high efficacy with minimal side effects; for example, resveratrol and epigallocatechin gallate have multiple targets and provide synergistic efficacy to resolve the complexity of the pathophysiology of EM, showing promising efficacy in treating EM. Although new medical treatments are currently being developed, more detailed pharmacological studies and large sample size clinical trials are needed to confirm the efficacy and safety of these treatments in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sze Wan Hung
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong
| | - Ruizhe Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and GeneticsThe First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou UniversityZhengzhou
| | - Zhouyurong Tan
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong
| | | | - Tao Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong
| | - Chi Chiu Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong
- Reproduction and Development, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health SciencesThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong
- School of Biomedical SciencesThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong
- Chinese University of Hong Kong‐Sichuan University Joint Laboratory in Reproductive MedicineThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong
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13
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Malvezzi H, Marengo EB, Podgaec S, Piccinato CDA. Endometriosis: current challenges in modeling a multifactorial disease of unknown etiology. J Transl Med 2020; 18:311. [PMID: 32787880 PMCID: PMC7425005 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-020-02471-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory hormone-dependent condition associated with pelvic pain and infertility, characterized by the growth of ectopic endometrium outside the uterus. Given its still unknown etiology, treatments usually aim at diminishing pain and/or achieving pregnancy. Despite some progress in defining mode-of-action for drug development, the lack of reliable animal models indicates that novel approaches are required. The difficulties inherent to modeling endometriosis are related to its multifactorial nature, a condition that hinders the recreation of its pathology and the identification of clinically relevant metrics to assess drug efficacy. In this review, we report and comment endometriosis models and how they have led to new therapies. We envision a roadmap for endometriosis research, integrating Artificial Intelligence, three-dimensional cultures and organ-on-chip models as ways to achieve better understanding of physiopathological features and better tailored effective treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Malvezzi
- Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, SP 05652-900 Brazil
| | - Eliana Blini Marengo
- Instituto Butanta- EstabilidadeBiotech Quality Control, São Paulo, SP 05503-900 Brazil
| | - Sérgio Podgaec
- Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, SP 05652-900 Brazil
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Namavar Jahromi B, Farrokhnia F, Tanideh N, Vijayananda Kumar P, Parsanezhad ME, Alaee S. Comparing The Effects of Glycyrrhiza glabra Root Extract, A Cyclooxygenase-2 Inhibitor (Celecoxib) and A Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Analog (Diphereline) in A Rat Model of Endometriosis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FERTILITY & STERILITY 2019; 13:45-50. [PMID: 30644244 PMCID: PMC6334018 DOI: 10.22074/ijfs.2019.5446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2017] [Accepted: 06/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Background The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice), a cyclooxyge-
nase-2 inhibitor (Celecoxib) and a gonadotropin-releasing hormone analog (Diphereline®), with a control group on
endometrial implants in rats. Materials and Methods In this experimental study, endometriosis was induced in rats by auto transplantation and
after confirmation, the rats were divided into 4 groups that were treated for 6 weeks with normal saline (0.5 ml/day,
orally), licorice extract (3000 mg/kg/day, orally), celecoxib (50 mg/kg, twice a day, orally) or diphereline (3 mg/kg,
intramuscularly). At the end of treatments, the mean area, volume, histopathology and hemosiderin-laden macrophage
(HLM) counts of the endometrial implants were evaluated and compared among the four groups. Results The mean area, volume and HLM counts of the implants in the licorice group were significantly lower than
those of the control group (P<0.001). The histopathologic grades of endometrial implants were significantly decreased
by licorice compared to the control group (P<0.001). There was no significant change in the mentioned parameters in
rats treated with celecoxib compared to the control group. Diphereline was the most potent agent for suppressing the
growth of endometrial implants in terms of all of the above-mentioned parameters. Conclusion Licorice decreased the growth and histopathologic grades of auto-transplanted endometrial implants.
However, while celcoxib had no significant effect, diphereline showed the highest potency for decreasing the endome-
trial growth. Licorice may have the potential to be used as an alternative medication for the treatment of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bahia Namavar Jahromi
- Infertility Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran. Electronic Address: .,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Farnaz Farrokhnia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.,Student Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Nader Tanideh
- Stem Cell Technology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.,Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | | | - Mohammad Ebrahim Parsanezhad
- Infertility Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Sanaz Alaee
- Department of Reproductive Biology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.Electronic Address:
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Barra F, Scala C, Mais V, Guerriero S, Ferrero S. Investigational drugs for the treatment of endometriosis, an update on recent developments. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2018; 27:445-458. [PMID: 29708812 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2018.1471135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Endometriosis is a hormone-dependent benign chronic disease that requires a chronic medical therapy. Although currently available drugs are efficacious in treating endometriosis-related pain, some women experience partial or no improvement. Moreover, the recurrence of symptoms is expected after discontinuation of the therapies. Currently, new drugs are under intense clinical investigation for the treatment of endometriosis. AREAS COVERED This review aims to offer the reader a complete and updated overview on new investigational drugs and early molecular targets for the treatment of endometriosis. The authors describe the pre-clinical and clinical development of these agents. EXPERT OPINION Among the drugs under investigation, late clinical trials on gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonists (GnRH-ant) showed the most promising results for the treatment of endometriosis. Aromatase inhibitors (AIs) are efficacious in treating endometriosis related pain symptoms but they cause significant adverse effects that limit their long-term use. New targets have been identified to produce drugs for the treatment of endometriosis, but the majority of these new compounds have only been investigated in laboratory studies or early clinical trials. Thus, further clinical research is required in order to elucidate their efficacy and safety in human.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Barra
- a Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Ospedale Policlinico San Martino , Genoa , Italy.,b Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI) , University of Genoa , Genoa , Italy
| | - Carolina Scala
- a Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Ospedale Policlinico San Martino , Genoa , Italy.,b Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI) , University of Genoa , Genoa , Italy
| | - Valerio Mais
- c Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , University of Cagliari, Policlinico Universitario Duilio Casula, Monserrato , Cagliari , Italy
| | - Stefano Guerriero
- c Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , University of Cagliari, Policlinico Universitario Duilio Casula, Monserrato , Cagliari , Italy
| | - Simone Ferrero
- a Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Ospedale Policlinico San Martino , Genoa , Italy.,b Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI) , University of Genoa , Genoa , Italy
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McKinnon BD, Kocbek V, Nirgianakis K, Bersinger NA, Mueller MD. Kinase signalling pathways in endometriosis: potential targets for non-hormonal therapeutics. Hum Reprod Update 2016; 22:382-403. [PMID: 26740585 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmv060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2015] [Accepted: 12/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometriosis, the growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterine cavity, is associated with chronic pelvic pain, subfertility and an increased risk of ovarian cancer. Current treatments include the surgical removal of the lesions or the induction of a hypoestrogenic state. However, a reappearance of the lesion after surgery is common and a hypoestrogenic state is less than optimal for women of reproductive age. Additional approaches are required. Endometriosis lesions exist in a unique microenvironment characterized by increased concentrations of hormones, inflammation, oxidative stress and iron. This environment influences cell survival through the binding of membrane receptors and a subsequent cascading activation of intracellular kinases that stimulate a cellular response. Many of these kinase signalling pathways are constitutively activated in endometriosis. These pathways are being investigated as therapeutic targets in other diseases and thus may also represent a target for endometriosis treatment. METHODS To identify relevant English language studies published up to 2015 on kinase signalling pathways in endometriosis, we searched the Pubmed database using the following search terms in various combinations; 'endometriosis', 'inflammation', 'oxidative stress', 'iron', 'kinase', 'NF kappa', 'mTOR', 'MAPK' 'p38', 'JNK', 'ERK' 'estrogen' and progesterone'. Further citing references were identified using the Scopus database and finally current clinical trials were searched on the clinicaltrials.gov trial registry. RESULTS The current literature on intracellular kinases activated by the endometriotic environment can be summarized into three main pathways that could be targeted for treatments: the canonical IKKβ/NFκB pathway, the MAPK pathways (ERK1/2, p38 and JNK) and the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. A number of pharmaceutical compounds that target these pathways have been successfully trialled in in vitro and animal models of endometriosis, although they have not yet proceeded to clinical trials. The current generation of kinase inhibitors carry a potential for adverse side effects. CONCLUSIONS Kinase signalling pathways represent viable targets for endometriosis treatment. At present, however, further improvements in clinical efficacy and the profile of adverse effects are required before these compounds can be useful for long-term endometriosis treatment. A better understanding of the molecular activity of these kinases, including the specific extracellular compounds that lead to their activation in endometriotic cells specifically should facilitate their improvement and could potentially lead to new, non-hormonal treatments of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brett D McKinnon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Inselspital, Berne University Hospital, Effingerstrasse 102, Berne CH-3010, Switzerland Department of Clinical Research, University of Berne, Murtenstrasse 35, Berne CH-3010, Switzerland
| | - Vida Kocbek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Inselspital, Berne University Hospital, Effingerstrasse 102, Berne CH-3010, Switzerland Department of Clinical Research, University of Berne, Murtenstrasse 35, Berne CH-3010, Switzerland
| | - Kostantinos Nirgianakis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Inselspital, Berne University Hospital, Effingerstrasse 102, Berne CH-3010, Switzerland Department of Clinical Research, University of Berne, Murtenstrasse 35, Berne CH-3010, Switzerland
| | - Nick A Bersinger
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Inselspital, Berne University Hospital, Effingerstrasse 102, Berne CH-3010, Switzerland Department of Clinical Research, University of Berne, Murtenstrasse 35, Berne CH-3010, Switzerland
| | - Michael D Mueller
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Inselspital, Berne University Hospital, Effingerstrasse 102, Berne CH-3010, Switzerland Department of Clinical Research, University of Berne, Murtenstrasse 35, Berne CH-3010, Switzerland
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Carrarelli P, Funghi L, Bruni S, Luisi S, Arcuri F, Petraglia F. Naproxen sodium decreases prostaglandins secretion from cultured human endometrial stromal cells modulating metabolizing enzymes mRNA expression. Gynecol Endocrinol 2016; 32:319-22. [PMID: 26634864 DOI: 10.3109/09513590.2015.1115973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Dysmenorrhea, defined as painful cramps occurring immediately before or during the menstrual period, is a common symptom of different gynecological diseases. An acute uterine inflammatory response driven by prostaglandins (PGs) is responsible for painful symptoms. Progesterone withdrawal is responsible for activation of cyclooxygenase (COX-2) enzyme and decrease of hydroxyprostaglandin dehydrogenase (HPDG) with consequent increased secretion of PGs secretion, inducing uterine contractility and pain. The most widely used drugs for the treatment of pelvic pain associated with menstrual cycle are non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The uterine site of action of these drugs is still not defined and the present study evaluated the effect of naproxen sodium in cultured human endometrial stromal cells (HESC) collected from healthy women. PGE2 release was measured by ELISA; COX-2 and HPDG mRNA expression were assessed by qRT-PCR. Naproxen sodium did not affect HESC vitality. Naproxen sodium significantly decreased PGE2 secretion (p < 0.01) and COX-2 mRNA expression (p < 0.01). TNF-α induced PGE2 release was reduced in presence of naproxen sodium (p < 0.05), in association with decreased COX-2 and increased HPDG mRNAs expression. Naproxen sodium decreases endometrial PGE2 release induced by inflammatory stimulus acting on endometrial COX-2 and HPDG expression, suggesting endometrial synthesis of prostaglandins as a possible target for reduction of uterine inflammatory mechanism in dysmenorrhea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrizia Carrarelli
- a Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena , Siena , Italy
| | - Lucia Funghi
- a Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena , Siena , Italy
| | - Simone Bruni
- a Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena , Siena , Italy
| | - Stefano Luisi
- a Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena , Siena , Italy
| | - Felice Arcuri
- a Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena , Siena , Italy
| | - Felice Petraglia
- a Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena , Siena , Italy
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Leone Roberti Maggiore U, Ferrero S. An overview of early drug development for endometriosis. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2015; 25:227-47. [DOI: 10.1517/13543784.2016.1126579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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19
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García-Pascual CM, Ferrero H, Juarez I, Martínez J, Villanueva A, Pozuelo-Rubio M, Soengas M, Tormo D, Simón C, Gómez R, Pellicer A. Evaluation of the antiproliferative, proapoptotic, and antiangiogenic effects of a double-stranded RNA mimic complexed with polycations in an experimental mouse model of leiomyoma. Fertil Steril 2015; 105:529-38. [PMID: 26616441 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2015.10.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2015] [Revised: 10/27/2015] [Accepted: 10/30/2015] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the antiproliferative, proapoptotic, and antiangiogenic effects of the double-stranded RNA mimic polyinosine-polycytidylic acid (pIC) complexed with polyethylenimine [pIC(PEI)] in xenografted human leiomyomas. DESIGN Heterologous leiomyoma mouse model. SETTING University-affiliated infertility center. ANIMAL(S) Ovariectomized and hormone-replaced nude mice (n = 16) who received human leiomyoma fragment transplantation. INTERVENTION(S) Leiomyoma fragments placed in the peritoneum of 5-week-old nude female mice and treated with the vehicle (n = 8) or 0.6 mg/kg [pIC(PEI)] (n = 8) for 4 weeks. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The size of the leiomyoma implants, and cellular proliferation (Ki67), vascularization (PECAM), and apoptosis (OH-ends) assessed by quantitative immunohistochemical/immunofluorescent analysis of the recovered implants. RESULT(S) No significant differences were observed in the size of the leiomyoma implants between groups. Vascularization and proliferation were significantly decreased, and apoptosis was increased in the [pIC(PEI)]-treated group versus control. CONCLUSION(S) We hypothesize that the antiangiogenic and apoptotic effects exerted by [pIC(PEI)] might lead to a decrease in lesion size in this animal model if the compound is administered for longer periods of time. This study provides promising data on [pIC(PEI)] as a potential novel therapeutic agent against human leiomyoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Maria García-Pascual
- Instituto Universitario IVI/INCLIVA, Valencia, Spain; Fundación IVI, Universidad de Valencia, Paterna, Spain
| | - Hortensia Ferrero
- Instituto Universitario IVI/INCLIVA, Valencia, Spain; Fundación IVI, Universidad de Valencia, Paterna, Spain
| | - Irene Juarez
- Departamento de Ginecología, Hospital Universitario y politécnico la Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Marisol Soengas
- Melanoma Laboratory, Molecular Pathology Programme, Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (Spanish National Cancer Research Centre), Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Carlos Simón
- Instituto Universitario IVI/INCLIVA, Valencia, Spain; Fundación IVI, Universidad de Valencia, Paterna, Spain
| | - Raúl Gómez
- Instituto Universitario IVI/INCLIVA, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Antonio Pellicer
- Fundación IVI, Universidad de Valencia, Paterna, Spain; Departamento de Ginecología, Hospital Universitario y politécnico la Fe, Valencia, Spain
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Abstract
Endometriosis is a disease characterized by the growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus and is associated with chronic pelvic pain. Peritoneal fluid (PF) of women with endometriosis is a dynamic milieu and is rich in inflammatory markers, pain-inducing prostaglandins prostaglandin E2 and prostaglandin F2α, and lipid peroxides; and the endometriotic tissue is innervated with nociceptors. Our clinical study showed that the abundance of oxidatively modified lipoproteins in the PF of women with endometriosis and the ability of antioxidant supplementation to alleviate endometriosis-associated pain. We hypothesized that oxidatively modified lipoproteins present in the PF are the major source of nociceptive molecules that play a key role in endometriosis-associated pain. In this study, PF obtained from women with endometriosis or control women were used for (1) the detection of lipoprotein-derived oxidation-sensitive pain molecules, (2) the ability of such molecules to induce nociception, and (3) the ability of antioxidants to suppress this nociception. LC-MS/MS showed the generation of eicosanoids by oxidized-lipoproteins to be similar to that seen in the PF. Oxidatively modified lipoproteins induced hypothermia (intracerebroventricular) in CD-1 mice and nociception in the Hargreaves paw withdrawal latency assay in Sprague-Dawley rats. Antioxidants, vitamin E and N-acetylcysteine, and the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug indomethacin suppressed the pain-inducing ability of oxidatively modified lipoproteins. Treatment of human endometrial cells with oxidatively modified lipoproteins or PF from women with endometriosis showed upregulation of similar genes belonging to opioid and inflammatory pathways. Our finding that oxidatively modified lipoproteins can induce nociception has a broader impact not only on the treatment of endometriosis-associated pain but also on other diseases associated with chronic pain.
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Palmer SS, Altan M, Denis D, Tos EG, Gotteland JP, Osteen KG, Bruner-Tran KL, Nataraja SG. Bentamapimod (JNK Inhibitor AS602801) Induces Regression of Endometriotic Lesions in Animal Models. Reprod Sci 2015; 23:11-23. [PMID: 26335175 DOI: 10.1177/1933719115600553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis is an estrogen (ER)-dependent gynecological disease caused by the growth of endometrial tissue at extrauterine sites. Current endocrine therapies address the estrogenic aspect of disease and offer some relief from pain but are associated with significant side effects. Immune dysfunction is also widely believed to be an underlying contributor to the pathogenesis of this disease. This study evaluated an inhibitor of c-Jun N-terminal kinase, bentamapimod (AS602801), which interrupts immune pathways, in 2 rodent endometriosis models. Treatment of nude mice bearing xenografts biopsied from women with endometriosis (BWE) with 30 mg/kg AS602801 caused 29% regression of lesion. Medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) or progesterone (PR) alone did not cause regression of BWE lesions, but combining 10 mg/kg AS602801 with MPA caused 38% lesion regression. In human endometrial organ cultures (from healthy women), treatment with AS602801 or MPA reduced matrix metalloproteinase-3 (MMP-3) release into culture medium. In organ cultures established with BWE, PR or MPA failed to inhibit MMP-3 secretion, whereas AS602801 alone or MPA + AS602801 suppressed MMP-3 production. In an autologous rat endometriosis model, AS602801 caused 48% regression of lesions compared to GnRH antagonist Antide (84%). AS602801 reduced inflammatory cytokines in endometriotic lesions, while levels of cytokines in ipsilateral horns were unaffected. Furthermore, AS602801 enhanced natural killer cell activity, without apparent negative effects on uterus. These results indicate that bentamapimod induced regression of endometriotic lesions in endometriosis rodent animal models without suppressing ER action. c-Jun N-terminal kinase inhibition mediated a comprehensive reduction in cytokine secretion and moreover was able to overcome PR resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen S Palmer
- EMD Serono Research Institute, Billerica, MA, USA TocopheRx, Inc, Burlington, MA, USA
| | - Melis Altan
- EMD Serono Research Institute, Billerica, MA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Kevin G Osteen
- Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | | | - Selvaraj G Nataraja
- EMD Serono Research Institute, Billerica, MA, USA TocopheRx, Inc, Burlington, MA, USA
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22
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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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23
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Quattrone F, Sanchez AM, Pannese M, Hemmerle T, Viganò P, Candiani M, Petraglia F, Neri D, Panina-Bordignon P. The Targeted Delivery of Interleukin 4 Inhibits Development of Endometriotic Lesions in a Mouse Model. Reprod Sci 2015; 22:1143-52. [PMID: 25850899 DOI: 10.1177/1933719115578930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis is caused by the displacement of endometrium outside the uterus contributing heavily to infertility and debilitating pelvic pain. Ectopic adhesion and growth are believed to occur under the influence of a favorable hormonal environment and immunological factors. The objective of this study is to analyze the effect of a targeted therapy with an antibody-based pharmacodelivery of interleukin 4 (F8-IL4) in a mouse model of experimentally induced endometriosis. Endometriosis-like lesions were induced in Balb/c mice. The animals were treated intravenously with F8-IL4 or with untargeted IL4 (KSF-IL4). Twelve days after disease induction, the lesions were isolated. A significant reduction in the number of total lesions/mouse and in the total volume of lesions/mouse was observed in mice treated with F8-IL4 compared to controls (P = .029 and P = .006, respectively), while no difference was found between KSF-IL4-treated mice and their controls. Gene expression was evaluated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Expression of genes involved in cell adhesion, extracellular matrix invasion, and neovascularization was significantly downregulated in F8-IL4-treated mice compared to their controls (integrin β1: P = .02; metalloproteinase [MMP] 3: P = .02; MMP9: P = .04; vascular endothelial growth factor: P = .04). Gene expression of inflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor α, IL1β, IL1α, and IL6) did not vary in the ectopic lesions isolated from F8-IL4-treated mice compared to their controls. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated a significantly reduced expression of E-cadherin and β-catenin in the lesions of mice treated with F8-IL4. Our results show that the antibody-mediated targeted delivery of IL4 inhibits the development of endometriosis in a syngeneic mouse model by likely impairing adhesion, invasion, and vascularization of the ectopic endometrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Quattrone
- Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Ana Maria Sanchez
- Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Pannese
- Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Teresa Hemmerle
- Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, CH-8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Paola Viganò
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Candiani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Felice Petraglia
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Dario Neri
- Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, CH-8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Paola Panina-Bordignon
- Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
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Resolvins RvD1 and 17(R)-RvD1 alleviate signs of inflammation in a rat model of endometriosis. Fertil Steril 2014; 102:1191-6. [PMID: 25123641 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.06.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2014] [Revised: 06/30/2014] [Accepted: 06/30/2014] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the effects of two resolvins of D series, RvD1 and 17(R)-RvD1, on inflammatory signs associated with endometriosis (ENDO). DESIGN In vivo research study. SETTING Research laboratory. ANIMAL(S) Female Sprague-Dawley rats. INTERVENTION(S) Intravenous or intraperitoneal injections of RvD1 (300 ng/kg) or 17(R)-RvD1 (300 and 900 ng/kg) in rats with surgically induced ENDO. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Vascular permeability of ectopic endometrial growths was assessed by Evans Blue extravasation; vaginal hyperalgesia was assessed with telemetered visceromotor response. RESULT(S) Both resolvins, but not vehicle, significantly decreased vascular permeability in ectopic endometrial tissue. 17(R)-RvD1 also significantly alleviated severity of vaginal hyperalgesia. CONCLUSION(S) Our results suggest that RvD1 and 17(R)-RvD1 can be considered for further investigation of their therapeutic potential for treating ENDO.
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Han SJ, O'Malley BW. The dynamics of nuclear receptors and nuclear receptor coregulators in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. Hum Reprod Update 2014; 20:467-84. [PMID: 24634322 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmu002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometriosis is defined as the colonization and growth of endometrial tissue at anatomic sites outside the uterine cavity. Up to 15% of reproductive-aged women in the USA suffer from painful symptoms of endometriosis, such as infertility, pelvic pain, menstrual cycle abnormalities and increased risk of certain cancers. However, many of the current clinical treatments for endometriosis are not sufficiently effective and yield unacceptable side effects. There is clearly an urgent need to identify new molecular mechanisms that critically underpin the initiation and progression of endometriosis in order to develop more specific and effective therapeutics which lack the side effects of current therapies. The aim of this review is to discuss how nuclear receptors (NRs) and their coregulators promote the progression of endometriosis. Understanding the pathogenic molecular mechanisms for the genesis and maintenance of endometriosis as modulated by NRs and coregulators can reveal new therapeutic targets for alternative endometriosis treatments. METHODS This review was prepared using published gene expression microarray data sets obtained from patients with endometriosis and published literature on NRs and their coregulators that deal with endometriosis progression. Using the above observations, our current understanding of how NRs and NR coregulators are involved in the progression of endometriosis is summarized. RESULTS Aberrant levels of NRs and NR coregulators in ectopic endometriosis lesions are associated with the progression of endometriosis. As an example, endometriotic cell-specific alterations in gene expression are correlated with a differential methylation status of the genome compared with the normal endometrium. These differential epigenetic regulations can generate favorable cell-specific NR and coregulator milieus for endometriosis progression. Genetic alterations, such as single nucleotide polymorphisms and insertion/deletion polymorphisms of NR and coregulator genes, are frequently detected in ectopic lesions compared with the normal endometrium. These genetic variations impart new molecular properties to NRs and coregulators to increase their capacity to stimulate progression of endometriosis. Finally, post-translational modifications of NR coregulators, such as proteolytic processing, generate endometriosis-specific isoforms. Compared with the unmodified coregulators, these coregulator isoforms have unique functions that enhance the pathogenesis of endometriosis. CONCLUSIONS Epigenetic/genetic variations and posttranslational modifications of NRs and coregulators alter their original function so that they become potent 'drivers' of endometriosis progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sang Jun Han
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Bert W O'Malley
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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Kilico I, Kokcu A, Kefeli M, Kandemir B. Regression of experimentally induced endometriosis with a new selective cyclooxygenase-2 enzyme inhibitor. Gynecol Obstet Invest 2013; 77:35-9. [PMID: 24296832 DOI: 10.1159/000356686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2013] [Accepted: 10/24/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) levels increase in women with endometriosis. COX-2, via increasing prostaglandin E2, contributes to an increase in vascular endothelial growth factor. In this way, COX-2 may contribute to the progression and continuity of endometriosis. We investigated the effect of dexketoprofen trometamol, a new selective COX-2 enzyme inhibitor, on experimentally induced endometriotic cysts. METHODS Experimental endometriotic cysts were created in 60 adult female Wistar albino rats. The rats were randomized to 2 equal groups, a control (group Con) and a dexketoprofen (group Dex) group. Six weeks later, cyst volumes were measured as in vivo (volume 1). Following volume 1 measurement, for 4 weeks group Con received 0.1 ml distilled water; group Dex received 0.375 mg dexketoprofen trometamol/0.1 ml distilled water, intramuscularly, twice a day. At the end of administration, the cyst volumes were remeasured (volume 2), and the cysts totally excised and weighed. Glandular (GT) and stromal tissues (ST) and natural killer (NK) cell contents in the cyst wall were scored. RESULTS NK cell content and volume 1 were not different between the 2 groups. Volume 2, cyst weight, and GT and ST contents in group Dex were significantly lower than those in group Con. CONCLUSION Dexketoprofen trometamol significantly reduced the development of experimentally induced endometriotic cysts both macroscopically and microscopically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ismail Kilico
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Ondokuz Mayis, Samsun, Turkey
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Abbas MA, Taha MO, Zihlif MA, Disi AM. β-Caryophyllene causes regression of endometrial implants in a rat model of endometriosis without affecting fertility. Eur J Pharmacol 2013; 702:12-9. [PMID: 23353590 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2013.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2012] [Revised: 12/22/2012] [Accepted: 01/15/2013] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Olivares CN, Bilotas MA, Ricci AG, Barañao RI, Meresman GF. Anastrozole and celecoxib for endometriosis treatment, good to keep them apart? Reproduction 2013; 145:119-26. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-12-0386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a benign gynecological disease. Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and aromatase proteins have been shown to be overexpressed in eutopic endometrium from women suffering from this disease compared to disease-free women. Furthermore, inhibition of these molecules individually was demonstrated to have antiproliferative and proapoptotic effects both in vitro and in vivo in several models. In this study, the effect of combining celecoxib, a selective COX-2 inhibitor, and anastrozole, an aromatase inhibitor, on the implantation and growth of endometriotic like lesions in a murine model of endometriosis was evaluated. Endometriosis was surgically induced in female BALB/c mice. After 28 days of treatment with celecoxib, anastrozole, or their combination, animals were killed and lesions were counted, measured, excised, and fixed. Immunohistochemistry for proliferating cell nuclear antigen and CD34 was performed for assessment of cell proliferation and vascularization. TUNEL technique was performed for apoptosis evaluation. Celecoxib was the only treatment to significantly reduce the number of lesions established per mouse, their size and vascularized area. In addition, cell proliferation was significantly diminished and apoptosis was significantly enhanced by both individual treatments. When the therapies were combined, they reversed their effects. These results confirm that celecoxib and anastrozole separately decrease endometriotic growth, but when combined they might have antagonizing effects.
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Han SJ, Hawkins SM, Begum K, Jung SY, Kovanci E, Qin J, Lydon JP, DeMayo FJ, O'Malley BW. A new isoform of steroid receptor coactivator-1 is crucial for pathogenic progression of endometriosis. Nat Med 2012; 18:1102-11. [PMID: 22660634 DOI: 10.1038/nm.2826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2011] [Accepted: 05/03/2012] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is considered to be an estrogen-dependent inflammatory disease, but its etiology is unclear. Thus far, a mechanistic role for steroid receptor coactivators (SRCs) in the progression of endometriosis has not been elucidated. An SRC-1-null mouse model reveals that the mouse SRC-1 gene has an essential role in endometriosis progression. Notably, a previously unidentified 70-kDa SRC-1 proteolytic isoform is highly elevated both in the endometriotic tissue of mice with surgically induced endometriosis and in endometriotic stromal cells biopsied from patients with endometriosis compared to normal endometrium. Tnf⁻/⁻ and Mmp9⁻/⁻ mice with surgically induced endometriosis showed that activation of tumor necrosis factor a (TNF-α)-induced matrix metallopeptidase 9 (MMP9) activity mediates formation of the 70-kDa SRC-1 C-terminal isoform in endometriotic mouse tissue. In contrast to full-length SRC-1, the endometriotic 70-kDa SRC-1 C-terminal fragment prevents TNF-α-mediated apoptosis in human endometrial epithelial cells and causes the epithelial-mesenchymal transition and the invasion of human endometrial cells that are hallmarks of progressive endometriosis. Collectively, the newly identified TNF-α-MMP9-SRC-1 isoform functional axis promotes pathogenic progression of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sang Jun Han
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
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30
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Pharmacologic therapies in endometriosis: a systematic review. Fertil Steril 2012; 98:529-55. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2012.07.1120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2012] [Revised: 07/16/2012] [Accepted: 07/17/2012] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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Dmitrieva N, Faircloth EK, Pyatok S, Sacher F, Patchev V. Telemetric assessment of referred vaginal hyperalgesia and the effect of indomethacin in a rat model of endometriosis. Front Pharmacol 2012; 3:158. [PMID: 22969722 PMCID: PMC3430868 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2012.00158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2012] [Accepted: 08/09/2012] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Symptoms of endometriosis (ENDO), among others, include pelvic/abdominal and muscle pain. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents are first-line treatment for this pain. Similar to women, rats with surgically induced ENDO, but not its surgical control, exhibit vaginal hyperalgesia, which in rats is evidenced by a decreased threshold for the visceromotor response (VMR) induced by vaginal distention. Here we assess the VMR in rats with implanted probes that telemetrically transmit EMG activity from the abdominal muscle. The feasibility and sensitivity of this technique for monitoring the VMR threshold across the estrous cycle and the influence of Indomethacin on ENDO-induced vaginal hyperalgesia were evaluated. VMR thresholds in response to vaginal distention with an infusion pump were measured in different estrous stages. Indomethacin (5 or 10 mg/kg i.p. or s.c.) was injected in proestrus rats and 40-60 min later the VMR threshold was measured. The VMR threshold varied across the estrous cycle only in ENDO rats, being lowest in proestrus. Indomethacin increased this threshold in proestrus ENDO rats. These results show that telemetric assessment of the VMR is a sensitive tool, suitable for long-term studies in conscious rats. The results with this technique also suggest that ENDO-associated vaginal hyperalgesia involves COX activity, the feature that also underlies inflammatory pains.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Dmitrieva
- Program in Neuroscience, Florida State University Tallahassee, FL, USA
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Serra F, Quarta M, Canato M, Toniolo L, De Arcangelis V, Trotta A, Spath L, Monaco L, Reggiani C, Naro F. Inflammation in muscular dystrophy and the beneficial effects of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Muscle Nerve 2012; 46:773-84. [PMID: 22847332 DOI: 10.1002/mus.23432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/24/2012] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Glucocorticoids are the only drugs available for the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), but it is unclear whether their efficacy is dependent on their anti-inflammatory activity. METHODS To address this issue, mdx mice were treated daily with methylprednisolone and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs: aspirin, ibuprofen, parecoxib). RESULTS NSAID treatment was effective in ameliorating muscle morphology and reducing macrophage infiltration and necrosis. The percentage of regenerating myofibers was not modified by the treatments. The drugs were effective in reducing COX-2 expression and inflammatory cytokines, but they did not affect utrophin levels. The effects of the treatments on contractile performance were analyzed. Isometric tension did not differ in treated and untreated muscle, but the resistance to fatigue was decreased by treatment with methylprednisolone and aspirin. CONCLUSIONS NSAIDs have a beneficial effect on mdx muscle morphology, pointing to a crucial role of inflammation in the progression of DMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filippo Serra
- DAHFMO Unit of Histology and Medical Embryology, Sapienza University, Via A. Scarpa 14-00161 Rome, Italy
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Siqueira JM, Barreto AB, Saad-Hossne R. Treatment of endometriosis with local acetylsalicylic acid injection: experimental study in rabbits. J Minim Invasive Gynecol 2012; 18:800-6. [PMID: 22024267 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmig.2011.08.721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2011] [Revised: 08/19/2011] [Accepted: 08/24/2011] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The objective of the present study was to estimate the effects of introduction of acetylsalicylic acid solution into peritoneal implants in autologous endometrium as a method for treating endometriosis. Forty adult female rabbits were subdivided into 4 groups of 10 rabbits each, and endometriosis was induced via autotransplantation of endometrial fragments into the peritoneal cavity. At 30 days after induction of endometriosis, all animals were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 protocols. In protocol 1, animals were evaluated at 24 hours after treatment; group 1 (control) received physiologic solution, and group 2 received acetylsalicylic acid. In protocol 2, animals were evaluated at 10 days after treatment, group 3 (control) and group 4 received acetylsalicylic acid. After measuring the lesion, the endometriotic focus was removed and prepared for mounting on slides for histologic analysis. Imaging software was used for analysis of the total remaining area of endometrial tissue. The affected area in acetylsalicylic acid-treated animals was smaller than that in control animals at 24 hours and 10 days after treatment; a significant difference was found between control and treated groups (p < .001). Statistical analysis comparing protocols 1 and 2 demonstrated no differences between controls groups or acetylsalicylic acid groups (p = .30), and no differences between times (p = .75). Acetylsalicylic acid solution led to less growth (or higher involution) of endometrial implants. Acetylsalicylic acid injected directly into endometriotic foci was effective in their destruction. This presents new perspectives for treatment of endometriosis and for clinical applications based on further clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Menezes Siqueira
- Department of Surgery, Botucatu Medical School, Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
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Pelch KE, Sharpe-Timms KL, Nagel SC. Mouse model of surgically-induced endometriosis by auto-transplantation of uterine tissue. J Vis Exp 2012:e3396. [PMID: 22257948 DOI: 10.3791/3396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a chronic, painful disease whose etiology remains unknown. Furthermore, treatment of endometriosis can require laparoscopic removal of lesions, and/or chronic pharmaceutical management of pain and infertility symptoms. The cost associated with endometriosis has been estimated at 22 billion dollars per year in the United States. To further our understanding of mechanisms underlying this enigmatic disease, animal models have been employed. Primates spontaneously develop endometriosis and therefore primate models most closely resemble the disease in women. Rodent models, however, are more cost effective and readily available. The model that we describe here involves an autologous transfer of uterine tissue to the intestinal mesentery (Figure 1) and was first developed in the rat and later transferred to the mouse. The goal of the autologous rodent model of surgically-induced endometriosis is to mimic the disease in women. We and others have previously shown that the altered gene expression pattern observed in endometriotic lesions from mice or rats mirrors that observed in women with the disease. One advantage of performing the surgery in the mouse is that the abundance of transgenic mouse strains available can aid researchers in determining the role of specific components important in the establishment and growth of endometriosis. An alternative model in which excised human endometrial fragments are introduced to the peritoneum of immunocompromised mice is also widely used but is limited by the lack of a normal immune system which is thought to be important in endometriosis. Importantly, the mouse model of surgically induced endometriosis is a versatile model that has been used to study how the immune system, hormones and environmental factors affect endometriosis as well as the effects of endometriosis on fertility and pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine E Pelch
- Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health and Division of Biological Sciences, University of Missouri, USA
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Becker CM, Beaudry P, Funakoshi T, Benny O, Zaslavsky A, Zurakowski D, Folkman J, D'Amato RJ, Ryeom S. Circulating endothelial progenitor cells are up-regulated in a mouse model of endometriosis. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2011; 178:1782-91. [PMID: 21435458 PMCID: PMC3070089 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2010.12.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2010] [Revised: 12/20/2010] [Accepted: 12/23/2010] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a debilitating disease characterized by the growth of ectopic endometrial tissue. It is widely accepted that angiogenesis plays an integral part in the establishment and growth of endometriotic lesions. Recent data from a variety of angiogenesis-dependent diseases suggest a critical role of bone marrow–derived endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) in neovascularization. In this study we examined the blood levels of EPCs and mature circulating endothelial cells in a mouse model of surgically induced endometriosis. Fluorescence-activated cell sorting analysis revealed elevated levels of EPCs in the blood of mice with endometriosis compared with control subject that underwent a sham operation. EPC concentrations positively correlated with the amount of endometriotic tissue and peaked 1 to 4 days after induction of disease. In a green fluorescent protein bone marrow transplant experiment we found green fluorescent protein–positive endothelial cells incorporated into endometriotic lesions but not eutopic endometrium, as revealed by flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry. Finally, treatment of endometriosis-bearing mice with the angiogenesis inhibitor Lodamin, an oral nontoxic formulation of TNP-470, significantly decreased EPC levels while suppressing lesion growth. Taken together, our data indicate an important role for bone marrow–derived endothelial cells in the pathogenesis of endometriosis and support the potential clinical use of anti-angiogenic therapy as a novel treatment modality for this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian M Becker
- Vascular Biology Program, Children's Hospital Boston, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
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Pullen N, Birch CL, Douglas GJ, Hussain Q, Pruimboom-Brees I, Walley RJ. The translational challenge in the development of new and effective therapies for endometriosis: a review of confidence from published preclinical efficacy studies. Hum Reprod Update 2011; 17:791-802. [DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmr030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
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Kim KH, Kim HY, Kim HH, Lee KS, Cheong J. Hypoxia induces expression of COX-2 through the homeodomain transcription factor CDX1 and orphan nuclear receptor SHP in human endometrial cells. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 17:710-9. [DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gar036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
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Novella-Maestre E, Carda C, Ruiz-Sauri A, Garcia-Velasco JA, Simon C, Pellicer A. Identification and Quantification of Dopamine Receptor 2 in Human Eutopic and Ectopic Endometrium: A Novel Molecular Target for Endometriosis Therapy1. Biol Reprod 2010; 83:866-73. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.110.084392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
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Pelch KE, Schroder AL, Kimball PA, Sharpe-Timms KL, Davis JW, Nagel SC. Aberrant gene expression profile in a mouse model of endometriosis mirrors that observed in women. Fertil Steril 2010; 93:1615-1627.e18. [PMID: 19473656 PMCID: PMC2904074 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2009.03.086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2009] [Revised: 03/20/2009] [Accepted: 03/24/2009] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To define the altered gene expression profile of endometriotic lesions in a mouse model of surgically induced endometriosis. DESIGN Autologous experimental mouse model. SETTING Medical school department. ANIMAL(S) Adult C57Bl6 mice. INTERVENTION(S) Endometriosis was surgically induced by autotransplantation of uterine tissue to the intestinal mesentery. Endometriotic lesions and eutopic uteri were recovered at 3 or 29 days after induction. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Altered gene expression was measured in the endometriotic lesion relative to the eutopic uterus by genome-wide complementary DNA microarray analysis and was confirmed by real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction for six genes. Relevant categories of altered genes were identified using gene ontology analysis to determine groups of genes enriched for altered expression. RESULT(S) The expression of 479 and 114 genes was altered in the endometriotic lesion compared with the eutopic uterus at 3 or 29 days after induction, respectively. Gene ontology enrichment analysis revealed that genes associated with the extracellular matrix, cell adhesions, immune function, cell growth, and angiogenesis were altered in the endometriotic lesion compared with the eutopic uterus. CONCLUSION(S) According to gene expression analysis, the mouse model of surgically induced endometriosis is a good model for studying the pathophysiology and treatment of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine E. Pelch
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri 65201
| | - Amy L. Schroder
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri 65201
| | - Paul A. Kimball
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri 65201
| | - Kathy L. Sharpe-Timms
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri 65201
| | - J. W. Davis
- Department of Health Management and Informatics, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri 65201
- Department of Statistics, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri 65201
| | - Susan C. Nagel
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri 65201
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Machado DE, Berardo PT, Landgraf RG, Fernandes PD, Palmero C, Alves LM, Abrao MS, Nasciutti LE. A selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor suppresses the growth of endometriosis with an antiangiogenic effect in a rat model. Fertil Steril 2010; 93:2674-9. [PMID: 20056215 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2009.11.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2009] [Revised: 11/17/2009] [Accepted: 11/17/2009] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To analyze the antiangiogenic effects of the selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor parecoxib on the growth of endometrial implants in a rat model of peritoneal endometriosis. DESIGN Pharmacologic interventions in an experimental model of peritoneal endometriosis. SETTING Research laboratory in the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro. ANIMAL(S) Twenty female Sprague-Dawley rats with experimentally induced endometriosis. INTERVENTION(S) After implantation and establishment of autologous endometrium onto the peritoneum abdominal wall, rats were randomized into groups and treated with parecoxib or the vehicle by IM injection for 30 days. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Vascular density, the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and its receptor Flk-1, the distribution of activated macrophages, the expression of COX-2, and the prostaglandin concentration in the endometriotic lesions treated with parecoxib were analyzed. RESULT(S) The treatment significantly decreased the implant size, and histologic examination indicated mostly atrophy and regression. A reduction in microvessel density and in the number of macrophages, associated with decreased expression of VEGF and Flk-1, also were observed. The treatment group showed a low concentration of prostaglandin E(2). CONCLUSION(S) These results suggest that the use of COX-2 selective inhibitors could be effective to suppress the establishment and growth of endometriosis, partially through their antiangiogenic activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Escorsim Machado
- Programa de Pesquisa em Biologia Celular e do Desenvolvimento, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Cidade Universitária-Ilha do Fundão, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Vercellini P, Somigliana E, Viganò P, Abbiati A, Barbara G, Crosignani PG. Endometriosis: current therapies and new pharmacological developments. Drugs 2009; 69:649-75. [PMID: 19405548 DOI: 10.2165/00003495-200969060-00002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory condition that is responsive to management with steroids. The establishment of a steady hormonal environment and inhibition of ovulation can temporarily suppress ectopic implants and reduce inflammation as well as associated pain symptoms. In terms of pharmacological management, the currently available agents are not curative, and treatment often needs to be continued for years or until pregnancy is desired. Similar efficacy has been observed from the various therapies that have been investigated for endometriosis. Accordingly, combined oral contraceptives and progestins, based on their favourable safety profile, tolerability and cost, should be considered as first-line options, as an alternative to surgery and for post-operative adjuvant use. In situations where progestins and oral contraceptives prove ineffective, are poorly tolerated or are contraindicated, gonadotrophin-releasing hormone analogues, danazol or gestrinone may be used. Future therapeutic options for managing endometriosis must compare favourably against existing agents before they can be considered for inclusion into current practice. Finally, as reproductive prognosis is not ameliorated by medical treatment, it is not indicated for women seeking conception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Vercellini
- Clinica Ostetrica e Ginecologica I, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
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Fedele L, Somigliana E, Frontino G, Benaglia L, Vigano P. New drugs in development for the treatment of endometriosis. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2008; 17:1187-202. [PMID: 18616415 DOI: 10.1517/13543784.17.8.1187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a common and enigmatic disease causing pelvic pain and infertility. Current treatment is mainly based on the use of surgery and ovarian suppressive agents. There is in particular the need for new therapeutic options able to allow a normal menstrual cycle to occur and also consent pregnancy. In the present review, we aimed to give a concise and practical overview in order to allow the clinician to clearly understand the level of development of these drugs. We have presented only treatments supported by in vivo researches with a special attention to studies in humans. Results show appealing new possibilities are emerging from agents counteracting the endometriosis-associated inflammation. Recent data also suggests that there is still the opportunity to refine the use of already available agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Fedele
- Fondazione IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mangiagalli e Regina Elena, Via Commenda 12, 20122 Milano, Italy.
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Induction of peritoneal endometriosis in nude mice with use of human immortalized endometriosis epithelial and stromal cells: a potential experimental tool to study molecular pathogenesis of endometriosis in humans. Fertil Steril 2008; 91:2199-209. [PMID: 18722604 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2008.06.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2008] [Revised: 06/25/2008] [Accepted: 06/26/2008] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether a mixed population of immortalized human endometriosis epithelial and stromal cells is able to induce peritoneal endometriosis in nude mice. DESIGN Prospective experimental study. Human immortalized endometriosis epithelial and stromal cells were xenografted into ovariectomized nude mice. Macroscopically, the number of induced endometriosis-like lesions and their color were determined. Microscopically, histomorphology of endometriosis glands and their structure were analyzed, and comparisons were made with tissue from spontaneous endometriosis in women. SETTING College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University. ANIMALS Seven ovariectomized nude mice. INTERVENTION(S) Minimal invasive procedures were performed to administer estrogen pellets and transplant immortalized human endometriosis epithelial and stromal cells into nude mice. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Peritoneal endometriosis-like lesions induced in nude mice were characterized and compared with spontaneous peritoneal endometriosis in women. RESULT(S) Xenografts of human immortalized endometriosis epithelial and stromal cells into the peritoneal cavity of the recipient nude mice are able to proliferate, attach, invade, reorganize, and establish peritoneal endometriosis. Endometriosis glands at different stages of growth were present in induced endometriosis-like lesions. Proliferating cell nuclear antigen, metalloproteinase 2, estrogen receptor-alpha, cyclooxygenase-2, and prostaglandin E(2) receptors EP2 and EP4 proteins were expressed in both endometriosis glandular epithelial and stromal cells of the induced endometriosis-like lesions. CONCLUSION(S) This xenograft model could be used as a potential experimental tool to understand the molecular and cellular aspects of the pathogenesis of endometriosis in humans.
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Nowak NM, Fischer OM, Gust TC, Fuhrmann U, Habenicht UF, Schmidt A. Intraperitoneal inflammation decreases endometriosis in a mouse model. Hum Reprod 2008; 23:2466-74. [PMID: 18653673 PMCID: PMC2569845 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/den189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The role of the immune system in the pathogenesis of endometriosis remains elusive. It has been shown that patients have an altered peritoneal environment with increased levels of inflammatory cytokines, activated macrophages and reduced clearance of retrogradely transported endometrial fragments. However, it is not known if this unique inflammatory situation is cause or consequence of endometriosis. This study investigates the impact of a pre-existing peritoneal inflammation on endometriosis establishment in a mouse model. METHODS Endometriosis was induced by intraperitoneal injection of enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP)-expressing endometrium in mice. In parallel, a peritonitis model was established via intraperitoneal injection of thioglycolate medium (TM). Finally, endometriosis was induced in the inflamed peritoneal cavity and lesion establishment as well as morphological and histological characteristics were analysed. RESULTS Induction of endometriosis in an inflamed peritoneal cavity resulted in fewer lesions and significantly lower sum of lesion surface area per mouse in the TM-treated group. Additionally, a higher amount of non-attached debris could be detected in the peritoneal cavity of TM-treated mice. CONCLUSIONS An intraperitoneal inflammation decreases endometriosis establishment in this mouse model. Thus, a pre-existing peritoneal inflammation might not be a factor favouring the development of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- N M Nowak
- GDD-TRG Women's Healthcare, Bayer Schering Pharma AG, Berlin, Germany
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Van Langendonckt A, Donnez J, Defrere S, Dunselman GA, Groothuis PG. Antiangiogenic and vascular-disrupting agents in endometriosis: pitfalls and promises. Mol Hum Reprod 2008; 14:259-68. [DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gan019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
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Banu SK, Lee J, Speights VO, Starzinski-Powitz A, Arosh JA. Cyclooxygenase-2 regulates survival, migration, and invasion of human endometriotic cells through multiple mechanisms. Endocrinology 2008; 149:1180-9. [PMID: 18039779 DOI: 10.1210/en.2007-1168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a debilitating disease characterized by the presence of functional endometrial glandular epithelium and stroma outside the uterine cavity that affects up to 20% of women of child-bearing age. Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), a rate-limiting enzyme in the biosynthesis of prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)), is highly expressed in endometriotic tissues and results in increased concentrations of peritoneal PGE(2) in women. In this study, we determined the expression of COX-2 protein in ectopic and eutopic endometria in humans and the role of COX-2 in endometriotic cell survival, migration, and invasion in humans. Our results indicate that COX-2 protein is abundantly expressed in ectopic endometria compared with eutopic endometria. Comparatively, expression of COX-2 protein is higher in eutopic endometria from women with endometriosis compared with women without endometriosis. Inhibition of COX-2 decreases survival, migration, and invasion of endometriotic cells that are associated with decreased production of PGE(2). Cell growth inhibitory effects of COX-2 inhibition/silencing are mediated through nuclear poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase-mediated apoptosis. Cell motility and invasion inhibitory effects of COX-2 inhibition/silencing are mediated through matrix metalloproteinase-2 and -9 activities. Interestingly, effects of COX-2 inhibition is more profound in endometriotic epithelial than in stromal cells. Furthermore, inhibition of COX-2 affects invasion rather than migration of endometriotic epithelial and stromal cells. It is the first evidence showing that inhibition of COX-2 decreases endometriotic epithelial and stromal cell survival, migration, and invasion in humans. Our results support the emerging concept that COX-2/PGE(2) promotes the pathophysiology and pathogenesis of endometriosis in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- S K Banu
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Cell Signaling Laboratory, Department of Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, USA
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Nagai N, Hoylaerts MF, Gallacher DJ, Lu HR, Lijnen HR. Prothrombotic effect of Rofecoxib in a murine venous thrombosis model. Thromb Res 2008; 122:668-73. [DOI: 10.1016/j.thromres.2008.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2008] [Revised: 04/24/2008] [Accepted: 04/30/2008] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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Fainaru O, Adini A, Benny O, Adini I, Short S, Bazinet L, Nakai K, Pravda E, Hornstein MD, D'Amato RJ, Folkman J. Dendritic cells support angiogenesis and promote lesion growth in a murine model of endometriosis. FASEB J 2007; 22:522-9. [PMID: 17873101 DOI: 10.1096/fj.07-9034com] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis affects 10-15% of women and is associated with pelvic pain and infertility. Angiogenesis plays an essential role in its pathogenesis. Dendritic cells (DCs) were recently implicated in supporting tumor angiogenesis. As both tumors and endometriosis lesions depend on angiogenesis, we investigated the possibility that DCs may also play a role in endometriosis. We induced endometriosis in 8-wk-old female C57BL/6 mice by implantation of autologous endometrium into the peritoneal cavity. We observed an abundance of CD11c(+) DCs infiltrating sites of angiogenesis in endometriosis lesions. We noticed a similar pattern of infiltrating DCs at sites of angiogenesis in the peritoneal Lewis lung carcinoma tumor model. These DCs were immature (major histocompatability complex class II(low)) and expressed vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2. Peritoneal implanted bone marrow-derived DCs (BMDCs) incorporated into both endometriosis lesions and into B16 melanoma tumors and enhanced their growth at 8 days compared with controls (5.1+/-2.5 vs. 1.5+/-0.5 mm(2), n=4 and 4, P<0.0001 for endometriosis; 67.6+/-15.1 vs. 22.7+/-14.6 mm(2), n=5 and 7, P=0.0004 for mouse melanoma). Finally, immature BMDCs but not mature BMDCs enhanced microvascular endothelial cell migration in vitro (219+/-51 vs. 93+/-32 cells, P=0.02). Based on these findings, we suggest a novel role for DCs in supporting angiogenesis and promoting lesion growth both in endometriosis and in tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ofer Fainaru
- Vascular Biology Program, Children's Hospital Boston, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Ave., Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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Becker CM, D'Amato RJ. Angiogenesis and antiangiogenic therapy in endometriosis. Microvasc Res 2007; 74:121-30. [PMID: 17574280 DOI: 10.1016/j.mvr.2007.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2007] [Revised: 04/25/2007] [Accepted: 04/26/2007] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis, the presence of endometrium-like tissue outside of the uterine cavity, is a common disease among women of reproductive age. Typical symptoms include abdominal pain and painful menstruation. In addition, endometriosis is associated with reduced fertility. Current treatment modalities, the surgical removal of endometriotic lesions and the hormonal suppression of estrogen are associated with significant morbidity, side-effects and recurrence rates. Despite uncertainties about the pathophysiology of the disease it has recently become apparent that angiogenesis plays a pivotal role in endometriosis. This review focuses on a multitude of factors involved in the angiogenic phenotype of endometriosis demonstrating that many biological systems such as the immune system and steroid hormones are closely connected to angiogenic pathways in this disease. In addition, experimental and clinical data are discussed that concentrate on the inhibition of angiogenesis as a novel therapeutic approach for endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian M Becker
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, UK
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