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Hu S, Guo W, Shen Y. Potential link between the nerve injury-induced protein (Ninjurin) and the pathogenesis of endometriosis. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 114:109452. [PMID: 36446236 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.109452] [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: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 10/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis remains a widespread but severe gynecological disease in women of reproductive age, with an unknown etiology and few treatment choices. The menstrual reflux theory is largely accepted as the underlying etiology but does not explain the morbidity or unpleasant pain sensations of endometriosis. The neurological and immune systems are both involved in pain mechanisms of endometriosis, and interlinked through a complex combination of cytokines and neurotransmitters. Numerous pieces of evidence suggest that the nerve injury-inducible protein, Ninjurin, is actively expressed in endometriosis lesions, which contributes to the etiology and development of endometriosis. It may be explored in the future as a novel therapeutic target. The aim of the present review was to elucidate the multifaceted role of Ninjurin. Furthermore, we summarize the association of Ninjurin with the pain mechanism of endometriosis and outline the future research directions. A novel therapeutic pathway can be discovered based on the potential pathogenic variables.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sijian Hu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Weina Guo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Yi Shen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China.
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2
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Chung MS, Han SJ. Endometriosis-Associated Angiogenesis and Anti-angiogenic Therapy for Endometriosis. Front Glob Womens Health 2022; 3:856316. [PMID: 35449709 PMCID: PMC9016174 DOI: 10.3389/fgwh.2022.856316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a known estrogen-dependent inflammatory disease affecting reproductive-aged women. Common symptoms include pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, heavy menstrual bleeding, and infertility. The exact etiology of endometriosis is largely unknown, and, thus, the diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis are challenging. A complex interplay of many molecular mechanisms is thought to aid in the progression of endometriosis, most notably angiogenesis. This mini-review examines our current knowledge of the molecular etiology of endometriosis-associated angiogenesis and discusses anti-angiogenic therapy, in the blockade of endometriosis-associated angiogenesis, as potential non-hormonal therapy for the treatment of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica S. Chung
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Ob/Gyn, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Sang Jun Han
- Laboratory of Dan L. Duncan Cancer Center and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
- *Correspondence: Sang Jun Han
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3
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Nenicu A, Yordanova K, Gu Y, Menger MD, Laschke MW. Differences in growth and vascularization of ectopic menstrual and non-menstrual endometrial tissue in mouse models of endometriosis. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:2202-2214. [PMID: 34109385 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deab139] [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: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is there a difference in the growth and vascularization between murine endometriotic lesions originating from menstrual or non-menstrual endometrial fragments? SUMMARY ANSWER Endometriotic lesions developing from menstrual and non-menstrual tissue fragments share many similarities, but also exhibit distinct differences in growth and vascularization, particularly under exogenous estrogen stimulation. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Mouse models are increasingly used in endometriosis research. For this purpose, menstrual or non-menstrual endometrial fragments serve for the induction of endometriotic lesions. So far, these two fragment types have never been directly compared under identical experimental conditions. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This was a prospective experimental study in a murine peritoneal and dorsal skinfold chamber model of endometriosis. Endometrial tissue fragments from menstruated (n = 15) and non-menstruated (n = 21) C57BL/6 mice were simultaneously transplanted into the peritoneal cavity or dorsal skinfold chamber of non-ovariectomized (non-ovx, n = 17), ovariectomized (ovx, n = 17) and ovariectomized, estrogen-substituted (ovx+E2, n = 17) recipient animals and analyzed throughout an observation period of 28 and 14 days, respectively. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The engraftment, growth and vascularization of the newly developing endometriotic lesions were analyzed by means of high-resolution ultrasound imaging, intravital fluorescence microscopy, histology and immunohistochemistry. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Menstrual and non-menstrual tissue fragments developed into peritoneal endometriotic lesions without differences in growth, microvessel density and cell proliferation in non-ovx mice. Lesion formation out of both fragment types was markedly suppressed in ovx mice. In case of non-menstrual tissue fragments, this effect could be reversed by estrogen supplementation. In contrast, endometriotic lesions originating from menstrual tissue fragments exhibited a significantly smaller volume in ovx+E2 mice, which may be due to a reduced hormone sensitivity. Moreover, menstrual tissue fragments showed a delayed vascularization and a reduced blood perfusion after transplantation into dorsal skinfold chambers when compared to non-menstrual tissue fragments, indicating different vascularization modes of the two fragment types. To limit the role of chance, the experiments were conducted under standardized laboratory conditions. Statistical significance was accepted for a value of P < 0.05. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Endometriotic lesions were induced by syngeneic tissue transplantation into recipient mice without the use of pathological endometriotic tissue of human nature. Therefore, the results obtained in this study may not fully relate to human patients with endometriosis. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The present study significantly contributes to the characterization of common murine endometriosis models. These models represent important tools for studies focusing on the basic mechanisms of endometriosis and the development of novel therapeutic strategies for the treatment of this frequent gynecological disease. The presented findings indicate that the combination of different experimental models and approaches may be the most appropriate strategy to study the pathophysiology and drug sensitivity of a complex disease such as endometriosis under preclinical conditions. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) There was no specific funding of this study. The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Nenicu
- Institute for Clinical and Experimental Surgery, Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - K Yordanova
- Institute for Clinical and Experimental Surgery, Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Y Gu
- Institute for Clinical and Experimental Surgery, Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - M D Menger
- Institute for Clinical and Experimental Surgery, Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - M W Laschke
- Institute for Clinical and Experimental Surgery, Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
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The Effect of Novel Medical Nonhormonal Treatments on the Angiogenesis of Endometriotic Lesions. Obstet Gynecol Surv 2021; 76:281-291. [PMID: 34032860 DOI: 10.1097/ogx.0000000000000888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Importance Irrespective of the precise mechanisms leading to endometriosis, angiogenesis is essential for the establishment and long-term proliferation of the disease. As current surgical and medical management options for women with endometriosis have substantial drawbacks and limitations, novel agents are needed and molecules targeting the angiogenic cascade could serve as potential candidates. Objective Our aim was to review current data about the role of angiogenesis in the pathophysiology of endometriosis and summarize the novel antiangiogenic agents that could be potentially used in clinical management of patients with endometriosis. Evidence Acquisition Original research and review articles were retrieved through a computerized literature search. Results Loss of balance between angiogenic activators and suppressors triggers the nonphysiological angiogenesis observed in endometriotic lesions. Several proangiogenic mediators have been identified and most of them have demonstrated increased concentrations in the peritoneal fluid and/or serum of women with endometriosis. Among the antiangiogenic molecules, anti-vascular endothelial growth factor agents, dopamine agonists, romidepsin, and statins have shown the most promising results so far. Conclusions and Relevance Given the limitations of current treatments of endometriosis, there is a need for novel, more efficient agents. Antiangiogenic molecules could be used potentially in clinical management of women with endometriosis; however, their safety and efficiency should be carefully assessed prior to that. Further large prospective trials in humans are needed before any treatment is introduced into daily clinical practice.
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5
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Rudzitis-Auth J, Fuß SA, Becker V, Menger MD, Laschke MW. Inhibition of erythropoietin-producing hepatoma receptor B4 (EphB4) signalling suppresses the vascularisation and growth of endometriotic lesions. Br J Pharmacol 2020; 177:3225-3239. [PMID: 32144768 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Revised: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The development of endometriotic lesions is crucially dependent on the formation of new blood vessels. In the present study, we analysed whether this process is regulated by erythropoietin-producing hepatoma receptor B4 (EphB4) signalling. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH We first assessed the anti-angiogenic action of the EphB4 inhibitor NVP-BHG712 in different in vitro angiogenesis assays. Then, endometriotic lesions were surgically induced in the dorsal skinfold chamber and peritoneal cavity of NVP-BHG712- or vehicle-treated BALB/c mice. This allowed to study the effect of EphB4 inhibition on their vascularisation and growth by means of intravital fluorescence microscopy, high-resolution ultrasound imaging, histology and immunohistochemistry. KEY RESULTS Non-cytotoxic doses of NVP-BHG712 suppressed the migration, tube formation and sprouting activity of both human dermal microvascular endothelial cells (HDMEC) and mouse aortic rings. Accordingly, we also detected a lower blood vessel density in NVP-BHG712-treated endometriotic lesions. This was associated with a reduced lesion growth due to a significantly lower number of proliferating stromal cells when compared to vehicle-treated controls. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Inhibition of EphB4 signalling suppresses the vascularisation and growth of endometriotic lesions. Hence, EphB4 represents a promising pharmacological target for the treatment of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sophia A Fuß
- Institute for Clinical and Experimental Surgery, Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Vivien Becker
- Institute for Clinical and Experimental Surgery, Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Michael D Menger
- Institute for Clinical and Experimental Surgery, Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Matthias W Laschke
- Institute for Clinical and Experimental Surgery, Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
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De Niz M, Carvalho T, Penha-Gonçalves C, Agop-Nersesian C. Intravital imaging of host-parasite interactions in organs of the thoracic and abdominopelvic cavities. Cell Microbiol 2020; 22:e13201. [PMID: 32149435 DOI: 10.1111/cmi.13201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2019] [Revised: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Infections with protozoan and helminthic parasites affect multiple organs in the mammalian host. Imaging pathogens in their natural environment takes a more holistic view on biomedical aspects of parasitic infections. Here, we focus on selected organs of the thoracic and abdominopelvic cavities most commonly affected by parasites. Parasitic infections of these organs are often associated with severe medical complications or have health implications beyond the infected individual. Intravital imaging has provided a more dynamic picture of the host-parasite interplay and contributed not only to our understanding of the various disease pathologies, but has also provided fundamental insight into the biology of the parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana De Niz
- Institute of Cell Biology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Instituto de Medicina Molecular - João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Tânia Carvalho
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular - João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
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7
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Pluchino N, Mamillapalli R, Shaikh S, Habata S, Tal A, Gaye M, Taylor HS. CXCR4 or CXCR7 antagonists treat endometriosis by reducing bone marrow cell trafficking. J Cell Mol Med 2020; 24:2464-2474. [PMID: 31904910 PMCID: PMC7028867 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.14933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2019] [Revised: 10/29/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Adult stem cells have a major role in endometrial physiology, including remodelling and repair. However, they also have a critical role in the development and progression of endometriosis. Bone marrow-derived stem cells engraft eutopic endometrium and endometriotic lesions, differentiating to both stromal and epithelial cell fates. Using a mouse bone marrow transplantation model, we show that bone marrow-derived cells engrafting endometriosis express CXCR4 and CXCR7. Targeting either receptor by the administration of small molecule receptor antagonists AMD3100 or CCX771, respectively, reduced BM-derived stem cell recruitment into endometriosis implants. Endometriosis lesion size was decreased compared to vehicle controls after treatment with each antagonist in both an early growth and established lesion treatment model. Endometriosis lesion size was not effected when the local effects of CXCL12 were abrogated using uterine-specific CXCL12 null mice, suggesting an effect primarily on bone marrow cell migration rather than a direct endometrial effect. Antagonist treatment also decreased hallmarks of endometriosis physiopathology such as pro-inflammatory cytokine production and vascularization. CXCR4 and CXCR7 antagonists are potential novel, non-hormonal therapies for endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Pluchino
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Ramanaiah Mamillapalli
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Shafiq Shaikh
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Shutaro Habata
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Aya Tal
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Marie Gaye
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Hugh S Taylor
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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8
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Regelin N, Heyder S, Laschke MW, Hadizamani Y, Borgmann M, Moehrlen U, Schramm R, Bals R, Menger MD, Hamacher J. A murine model to study vasoreactivity and intravascular flow in lung isograft microvessels. Sci Rep 2019; 9:5170. [PMID: 30914786 PMCID: PMC6435642 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-41590-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2018] [Accepted: 02/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Intravital microscopy of orthotopic lung tissue is technically demanding, especially for repeated investigations. Therefore, we have established a novel approach, which allows non-invasive repetitive in vivo microscopy of ectopic lung tissue in dorsal skinfold chambers. Syngeneic subpleural peripheral lung tissue and autologous endometrium (control) were transplanted onto the striated muscle within dorsal skinfold chambers of C57BL/6 mice. Grafts were analysed by intravital fluorescence microscopy over 14 days. Angiogenesis occurred in the grafts on day 3, as indicated by sinusoidal microvessels on the grafts’ edges with very slow blood flow, perifocal oedema, and haemorrhage. By day 10, lung transplants were completely revascularized, exhibited a dense network of microvessels with irregular diameters, chaotic angioarchitecture, and high blood flow. Compared to lung tissue, endometrial grafts contained a structured, glomerulus-like vessel architecture with lower blood flow. Despite missing ventilation, hypoxic vasoconstriction of the lung tissue arterioles occurred. In contrast, endometrium tissue arterioles dilated during hypoxia and constricted in hyperoxia. This demonstrates that ectopic lung grafts keep their ability for organ-specific hypoxic vasoconstriction. These findings indicate that our approach is suitable for repetitive in vivo pulmonary microcirculation analyses. The high blood flow and hypoxia-induced vasoconstriction in lung grafts suggest a physiological intrinsic vasoregulation independent of the recipient tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nora Regelin
- Department of Internal Medicine V - Pulmonology, Allergology, Respiratory Intensive Care Medicine, Saarland University Hospital, 66424, Homburg, Germany.,Institute for Clinical & Experimental Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Saarland University, 66421, Homburg, Germany
| | - Susanne Heyder
- Department of Internal Medicine V - Pulmonology, Allergology, Respiratory Intensive Care Medicine, Saarland University Hospital, 66424, Homburg, Germany.,Institute for Clinical & Experimental Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Saarland University, 66421, Homburg, Germany.,Mediclin Albert Schweitzer Clinic, Pneumology, 78126, Königsfeld, Germany
| | - Matthias W Laschke
- Institute for Clinical & Experimental Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Saarland University, 66421, Homburg, Germany
| | - Yalda Hadizamani
- Pneumology, Clinic for General Internal Medicine, Lindenhofspital Bern, 3012, Bern, Switzerland.,Lungen-und Atmungsstiftung, Bern, 3012, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Michèle Borgmann
- Pneumology, Clinic for General Internal Medicine, Lindenhofspital Bern, 3012, Bern, Switzerland.,Lungen-und Atmungsstiftung, Bern, 3012, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Ueli Moehrlen
- Lungen-und Atmungsstiftung, Bern, 3012, Bern, Switzerland.,Pediatric Surgery, University Children's Hospital Zurich, 8032, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - René Schramm
- Institute for Clinical & Experimental Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Saarland University, 66421, Homburg, Germany.,Heart and Diabetes Centre North Rhine-Westphalia, University Hospital of the Ruhr University of Bochum, 32545, Bad Oeynhausen, Germany
| | - Robert Bals
- Department of Internal Medicine V - Pulmonology, Allergology, Respiratory Intensive Care Medicine, Saarland University Hospital, 66424, Homburg, Germany
| | - Michael D Menger
- Institute for Clinical & Experimental Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Saarland University, 66421, Homburg, Germany
| | - Jürg Hamacher
- Department of Internal Medicine V - Pulmonology, Allergology, Respiratory Intensive Care Medicine, Saarland University Hospital, 66424, Homburg, Germany. .,Institute for Clinical & Experimental Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Saarland University, 66421, Homburg, Germany. .,Pneumology, Clinic for General Internal Medicine, Lindenhofspital Bern, 3012, Bern, Switzerland. .,Lungen-und Atmungsstiftung, Bern, 3012, Bern, Switzerland.
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9
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Rudzitis-Auth J, Nickels RM, Menger MD, Laschke MW. Inhibition of Cyclooxygenase-2 Suppresses the Recruitment of Endothelial Progenitor Cells in the Microvasculature of Endometriotic Lesions. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2018; 188:450-460. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2017.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2017] [Revised: 09/04/2017] [Accepted: 10/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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10
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Laschke MW, Menger MD. Basic mechanisms of vascularization in endometriosis and their clinical implications. Hum Reprod Update 2018; 24:207-224. [PMID: 29377994 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmy001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2017] [Revised: 12/19/2017] [Accepted: 01/01/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vascularization is a major hallmark in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. An increasing number of studies suggests that multiple mechanisms contribute to the vascularization of endometriotic lesions, including angiogenesis, vasculogenesis and inosculation. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE In this review, we provide an overview of the basic mechanisms of vascularization in endometriosis and give special emphasis on their future clinical implications in the diagnosis and therapy of the disease. SEARCH METHODS Literature searches were performed in PubMed for English articles with the key words 'endometriosis', 'endometriotic lesions', 'angiogenesis', 'vascularization', 'vasculogenesis', 'endothelial progenitor cells' and 'inosculation'. The searches included both animal and human studies. No restriction was set for the publication date. OUTCOMES The engraftment of endometriotic lesions is typically associated with angiogenesis, i.e. the formation of new blood vessels from pre-existing ones. This angiogenic process underlies the complex regulation by angiogenic growth factors and hormones, which activate intracellular pathways and associated signaling molecules. In addition, circulating endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) are mobilized from the bone marrow and recruited into endometriotic lesions, where they are incorporated into the endothelium of newly developing microvessels, referred to as vasculogenesis. Finally, preformed microvessels in shed endometrial fragments inosculate with the surrounding host microvasculature, resulting in a rapid blood supply to the ectopic tissue. These vascularization modes offer different possibilities for the establishment of novel diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Angiogenic growth factors and EPCs may serve as biomarkers for the diagnosis and classification of endometriosis. Blood vessel formation and mature microvessels in endometriotic lesions may be targeted by means of anti-angiogenic compounds and vascular-disrupting agents. WIDER IMPLICATIONS The establishment of vascularization-based approaches in the management of endometriosis still represents a major challenge. For diagnostic purposes, reliable angiogenic and vasculogenic biomarker panels exhibiting a high sensitivity and specificity must be identified. For therapeutic purposes, novel compounds selectively targeting the vascularization of endometriotic lesions without inducing severe side effects are required. Recent progress in the field of endometriosis research indicates that these goals may be achieved in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias W Laschke
- Institute for Clinical & Experimental Surgery, Saarland University, 66421 Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Michael D Menger
- Institute for Clinical & Experimental Surgery, Saarland University, 66421 Homburg/Saar, Germany
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11
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Melsens E, Verberckmoes B, Rosseel N, Vanhove C, Descamps B, Pattyn P, Ceelen W. The VEGFR Inhibitor Cediranib Improves the Efficacy of Fractionated Radiotherapy in a Colorectal Cancer Xenograft Model. Eur Surg Res 2016; 58:95-108. [PMID: 28002822 DOI: 10.1159/000452741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2016] [Accepted: 10/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE Radiotherapy (RT) increases local tumor control in locally advanced rectal cancer, but complete histological response is seen in only a minority of cases. Antiangiogenic therapy has been proposed to improve RT efficacy by "normalizing" the tumor microvasculature. Here, we examined whether cediranib, a pan-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor, improves microvascular function and tumor control in combination with RT in a mouse colorectal cancer (CRC) model. METHODS CRC xenografts (HT29) were grown subcutaneously in mice. Animals were treated for 5 consecutive days with vehicle, RT (1.8 Gy daily), cediranib (6 mg/kg po), or combined therapy (cediranib 2 h prior to radiation). Tumor volume was measured with calipers. Vascular changes were analyzed by dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI, oxygenation and interstitial fluid pressure probes and histology. To investigate vascular changes more in detail, a second set of mice were fitted with titanium dorsal skinfold window chambers, wherein a HT29 tumor cell suspension was injected. In vivo fluorescence microscopy was performed before and after treatment (same treatment protocol). RESULTS In vivo microscopy analyses showed that VEGFR inhibition with cediranib led to a "normalization" of the vessel wall, with decreased microvessel permeability (p < 0.0001) and tortuosity (p < 0.01), and a trend to decreased vessel diameters. This seemed to lead to lower tumor hypoxia rates in the cediranib and combination groups compared to the control and RT groups. This led to an increased tumor control in the combination group compared to controls or monotherapy (p < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS The combination of RT with cediranib enhances tumor control in a CRC xenograft mouse model. Microvascular analyses suggest that cediranib leads to vascular normalization and improved oxygenation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elodie Melsens
- Laboratory of Experimental Surgery, Department of Surgery, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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12
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Abstract
Adult stem cells have a major role in endometrial physiology, remodeling, and repair, but they also have a critical role in the development and progression of endometriosis. Bone marrow-derived stem cells (BMDSCs) engraft eutopic endometrium and endometriotic lesions, showing stromal and epithelial fate. Nevertheless, circulating BMDSCs are in limited supply, and the presence of endometriosis depletes stem cells from the blood circulation, preventing their homing in the uterus. Furthermore, stem cells migrate from endometriotic lesion into the uterus, leading to a dysfunctional endometrium. Stem cell trafficking is a central feature of endometriosis. Understanding molecular mechanisms regulating cell mobility and engraftment in endometriosis may reveal new targets for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Pluchino
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Hugh S Taylor
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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13
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Laschke MW, Menger MD. The gut microbiota: a puppet master in the pathogenesis of endometriosis? Am J Obstet Gynecol 2016; 215:68.e1-4. [PMID: 26901277 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2016.02.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2015] [Revised: 02/01/2016] [Accepted: 02/13/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a frequent gynecologic disease with a complex, multifactorial cause. It is characterized by the cyclic estrogen-driven proliferation and bleeding of endometriotic lesions (ie, ectopic endometrial glands and stroma) outside the uterus. These lesions induce a chronic activation of the innate immune system within the peritoneal cavity that is associated with the release of various inflammatory cytokines and angiogenic growth factors into the peritoneal fluid. This stimulates angiogenesis and the further spread of the lesions and triggers the typical pain that is symptomatic of the disease. Moreover, circulating stem and progenitor cells are recruited into the ectopic endometrial tissue and contribute to its growth and vascularization. In recent years, an increasing number of studies have indicated that the gut microbiota is not only essential for a physiologic gastrointestinal function but acts as a central regulator of a variety of inflammatory and proliferative conditions. Besides, the gut flora affects estrogen metabolism and stem-cell homeostasis. Based on these findings, we hypothesize that the gut microbiota may be involved crucially in the onset and progression of endometriosis. In the future, this novel view of the pathogenesis of endometriosis may be verified by analysis of the development of endometriotic lesions in animal models with a defined composition of the gut microbiota and by investigation of the microbiota of patients with endometriosis with modern next-generation sequencing tools. This could open the door for completely new preventive, diagnostic, and therapeutic approaches for endometriosis.
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14
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Olivares CN, Alaniz LD, Menger MD, Barañao RI, Laschke MW, Meresman GF. Inhibition of Hyaluronic Acid Synthesis Suppresses Angiogenesis in Developing Endometriotic Lesions. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0152302. [PMID: 27018976 PMCID: PMC4809563 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0152302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2016] [Accepted: 03/12/2016] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The development and long-term survival of endometriotic lesions is crucially dependent on an adequate vascularization. Hyaluronic acid (HA) through its receptor CD44 has been described to be involved in the process of angiogenesis. Objective To study the effect of HA synthesis inhibition using non-toxic doses of 4-methylumbelliferone (4-MU) on endometriosis-related angiogenesis. Materials and Methods The cytotoxicity of different in vitro doses of 4-MU on endothelial cells was firstly tested by means of a lactate dehydrogenase assay. The anti-angiogenic action of non-cytotoxic doses of 4-MU was then assessed by a rat aortic ring assay. In addition, endometriotic lesions were induced in dorsal skinfold chambers of female BALB/c mice, which were daily treated with an intraperitoneal injection of 0.9% NaCl (vehicle group; n = 6), 20mg/kg 4-MU (n = 8) or 80mg/kg 4-MU (n = 7) throughout an observation period of 14 days. The effect of 4-MU on their vascularization, survival and growth were studied by intravital fluorescence microscopy, histology and immunohistochemistry. Main Results Non-cytotoxic doses of 4-MU effectively inhibited vascular sprout formation in the rat aortic ring assay. Endometriotic lesions in dorsal skinfold chambers of 4-MU-treated mice dose-dependently exhibited a significantly smaller vascularized area and lower functional microvessel density when compared to vehicle-treated controls. Histological analyses revealed a downregulation of HA expression in 4-MU-treated lesions. This was associated with a reduced density of CD31-positive microvessels within the lesions. In contrast, numbers of PCNA-positive proliferating and cleaved caspase-3-positive apoptotic cells did not differ between 4-MU-treated and control lesions. Conclusions The present study demonstrates for the first time that targeting the synthesis of HA suppresses angiogenesis in developing endometriotic lesions. Further studies have to clarify now whether in the future this anti-angiogenic effect can be used beneficially for the treatment of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla N. Olivares
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
- * E-mail:
| | - Laura D. Alaniz
- CIT NOBA, Universidad Nacional del Noroeste de la Provincia de Buenos Aires (CONICET-UNNOBA), Junín, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Michael D. Menger
- Institute for Clinical & Experimental Surgery, University of Saarland, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Rosa I. Barañao
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Matthias W. Laschke
- Institute for Clinical & Experimental Surgery, University of Saarland, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Gabriela F. Meresman
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Laschke MW, Augustin VA, Sahin F, Anschütz D, Metzger W, Scheuer C, Bischoff M, Aktas C, Menger MD. Surface modification by plasma etching impairs early vascularization and tissue incorporation of porous polyethylene (Medpor®) implants. J Biomed Mater Res B Appl Biomater 2015; 104:1738-1748. [DOI: 10.1002/jbm.b.33528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2015] [Revised: 07/23/2015] [Accepted: 08/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Matthias W. Laschke
- Institute for Clinical & Experimental Surgery; Saarland University; 66421 Homburg/Saar Germany
| | - Victor A. Augustin
- Institute for Clinical & Experimental Surgery; Saarland University; 66421 Homburg/Saar Germany
| | - Fadime Sahin
- INM-Leibniz Institute for New Materials; 66123 Saarbrücken Germany
| | - Dieter Anschütz
- INM-Leibniz Institute for New Materials; 66123 Saarbrücken Germany
| | - Wolfgang Metzger
- Department of Trauma, Hand, and Reconstructive Surgery; Saarland University; 66421 Homburg/Saar Germany
| | - Claudia Scheuer
- Institute for Clinical & Experimental Surgery; Saarland University; 66421 Homburg/Saar Germany
| | - Markus Bischoff
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene; Saarland University; 66421 Homburg/Saar Germany
| | - Cenk Aktas
- INM-Leibniz Institute for New Materials; 66123 Saarbrücken Germany
| | - Michael D. Menger
- Institute for Clinical & Experimental Surgery; Saarland University; 66421 Homburg/Saar Germany
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Microvascular effects of the low molecular weight heparins in a colorectal xenograft model: an intravital microscopy study. J Surg Res 2015; 194:488-495. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2014.10.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2014] [Revised: 09/26/2014] [Accepted: 10/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Nenicu A, Körbel C, Gu Y, Menger MD, Laschke MW. Combined blockade of angiotensin II type 1 receptor and activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ by telmisartan effectively inhibits vascularization and growth of murine endometriosis-like lesions. Hum Reprod 2014; 29:1011-24. [PMID: 24578472 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deu035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is telmisartan effective in the treatment of endometriosis? SUMMARY ANSWER Combined blockade of angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) and activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-γ by telmisartan inhibits vascularization and growth of murine endometriosis-like lesions. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY AT1R and PPAR-γ are involved in the regulation of inflammation, proliferation and angiogenesis. These processes are also crucial for the pathogenesis of endometriosis and both receptors are expressed in endometrial tissue. Telmisartan is a partial agonist of PPAR-γ, which additionally blocks AT1R. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This was a randomized study in the mouse dorsal skinfold chamber and peritoneal model of endometriosis. Endometriosis-like lesions were induced in dorsal skinfold chambers of 21 female C57BL/6 mice, and in the peritoneal cavity of 15 additional animals, which were daily treated with an i.p. injection of pioglitazone (10 mg/kg, n = 12), telmisartan (10 mg/kg, n = 12) or vehicle (5% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), n = 12) throughout an observation period of 14 and 28 days, respectively. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The anti-angiogenic actions of pioglitazone, a full PPAR-γ agonist, and telmisartan were firstly assessed in vitro by an aortic ring assay. Endometriosis-like lesions were induced in the dorsal skinfold chamber or peritoneal cavity and the effects of telmisartan and pioglitazone on their vascularization, immune cell content and growth were studied by intravital fluorescence microscopy, high-resolution ultrasound imaging as well as histological, immunohistochemical and immunofluorescent analyses. Additional quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) arrays served for gene expression profiling of the lesions. To limit the role of chance, the experiments were conducted under standardized laboratory conditions with appropriate vehicle-treated controls. Statistical significance was accepted for a value of P < 0.05. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Telmisartan inhibited vascular sprout formation of aortic rings more effectively than pioglitazone. Accordingly, endometriosis-like lesions in dorsal skinfold chambers of telmisartan-treated animals exhibited a markedly lower functional microvessel density and blood perfusion. High-resolution ultrasound analyses of peritoneal endometriosis-like lesions revealed that the compound inhibited the stromal tissue growth, resulting in a significantly reduced final lesion volume. In contrast, the development of cysts did not differ between the groups. Moreover, telmisartan induced an up-regulation of PPAR-γ and a down-regulation of AT1R proteins in endometriosis-like lesions, which was associated with a decreased density of CD31-positive microvessels, a reduced immune cell content and a lower number of Ki67-positive proliferating cells. qRT-PCR arrays further demonstrated an inhibitory action of telmisartan on the expression of several angiogenic and inflammatory genes. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Endometriosis-like lesions were induced by syngeneic tissue transplantation into recipient mice without the use of pathological endometriotic tissue of human nature. Therefore, the results obtained in this study may not fully relate to human patients with endometriosis. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This study demonstrates that telmisartan inhibits vascularization, immune cell content and growth of endometriosis-like lesions. Accordingly, the combined blockade of AT1R and activation of PPAR-γ represents a promising new concept in the development of novel compounds for the treatment of endometriosis. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) There was no specific funding of this study. The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Nenicu
- Institute for Clinical and Experimental Surgery, University of Saarland, 66421 Homburg/Saar, Germany
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Feng D, Menger MD, Wang H, Laschke MW. Luminal epithelium in endometrial fragments affects their vascularization, growth and morphological development into endometriosis-like lesions in mice. Dis Model Mech 2013; 7:225-32. [PMID: 24291760 PMCID: PMC3917243 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.013664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In endometriosis research, endometriosis-like lesions are usually induced in rodents by transplantation of isolated endometrial tissue fragments to ectopic sites. In the present study, we investigated whether this approach is affected by the cellular composition of the grafts. For this purpose, endometrial tissue fragments covered with luminal epithelium (LE(+)) and without luminal epithelium (LE(-)) were transplanted from transgenic green-fluorescent-protein-positive (GFP(+)) donor mice into the dorsal skinfold chamber of GFP(-) wild-type recipient animals to analyze their vascularization, growth and morphology by means of repetitive intravital fluorescence microscopy, histology and immunohistochemistry during a 14-day observation period. LE(-) fragments developed into typical endometriosis-like lesions with cyst-like dilated endometrial glands and a well-vascularized endometrial stroma. In contrast, LE(+) fragments exhibited a polypoid morphology and a significantly reduced blood perfusion after engraftment, because the luminal epithelium prevented the vascular interconnection with the microvasculature of the surrounding host tissue. This was associated with a markedly decreased growth rate of LE(+) lesions compared with LE(-) lesions. In addition, we found that many GFP(+) microvessels grew outside the LE(-) lesions and developed interconnections to the host microvasculature, indicating that inosculation is an important mechanism in the vascularization process of endometriosis-like lesions. Our findings demonstrate that the luminal epithelium crucially affects the vascularization, growth and morphology of endometriosis-like lesions. Therefore, it is of major importance to standardize the cellular composition of endometrial grafts in order to increase the validity and reliability of pre-clinical rodent studies in endometriosis research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dilu Feng
- Institute for Clinical & Experimental Surgery, University of Saarland, 66421 Homburg/Saar, Germany
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19
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Feng D, Menger MD, Laschke MW. Vascular disrupting effects of combretastatin A4 phosphate on murine endometriotic lesions. Fertil Steril 2013; 100:1459-67. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2013.07.1967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2013] [Revised: 07/15/2013] [Accepted: 07/16/2013] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Edwards AK, Nakamura DS, Virani S, Wessels JM, Tayade C. Animal models for anti-angiogenic therapy in endometriosis. J Reprod Immunol 2013; 97:85-94. [PMID: 23432875 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2012.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2012] [Revised: 10/10/2012] [Accepted: 10/16/2012] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a gynecological disease characterized by the growth of endometrium outside of the uterine cavity. It is often associated with dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, pelvic pain and infertility. One of the key requirements for endometriotic lesions to survive is development of a blood supply to support their growth. Indeed, dense vascularization is characteristic feature of endometriotic lesions. This has led to the idea that suppression of blood vessel growth (anti-angiogenic therapy) may be a successful therapeutic approach for endometriosis. Potential effectiveness of anti-angiogenic therapies has been assessed in some animal models but there are no reports of human clinical trials. Without understanding the specific mechanism by which endometriosis lesions establish a new blood supply, short-term animal experiments will have limited value for translation into human medicine. Further, it is crucial to use appropriate animal models to assess efficacy of anti-angiogenic compounds. Syngeneic and autologous rodent models, where endometrial fragments are auto-transplanted into the peritoneal cavity are commonly used in anti-angiogenic therapy studies. Another approach is xenograft models where human endometrium is engrafted into immunodeficient mice. Here we review the animal models and experimental techniques used to evaluate anti-angiogenic therapies for endometriosis. We also review our own work on the role of stromal cell derived factor-1 in the recruitment of endothelial progenitor cells in endometriotic lesion angiogenesis, and the effects of the anti-angiogenic peptide ABT-898, a thrombospondin-1 mimetic, on endometriotic lesion growth and vascular development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew K Edwards
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
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21
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Abstract
A comprehensive review was performed to survey the role of angiogenesis in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. This is a multifactorial disease in which the development and maintenance of endometriotic implants depend on their invasive capacity and angiogenic potential. The peritoneal fluid of patients with endometriosis is a complex suspension carrying inflammatory cytokines, growth factors, steroid hormones, proangiogenic factors, macrophages, and endometrial and red blood cells. These cells and their signaling products concur to promote the spreading of new blood vessels at the endometriotic lesions and surroundings, which contributes to the endometriotic implant survival. Experimental studies of several antiangiogenic agents demonstrated the regression of endometriotic lesions by reducing their blood supply. Further studies are necessary before these novel agents can be introduced into clinical practice, in particular the establishment of the safety of anti-angiogenic medications in women who are seeking to become pregnant.
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22
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Olivieri DN, Tadokoro CE. Techniques for visualization of cell-cell contact at the fetal-maternal interface. Am J Reprod Immunol 2013; 69:419-26. [PMID: 23289481 DOI: 10.1111/aji.12070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2012] [Accepted: 12/05/2012] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Historically, several in vitro/ex vivo microscopy imaging techniques have been used to study cellular interactions within the uterus and the placenta. As these experimental methods have revealed compelling facts about the biologic phenomena of cell-cell contacts in these organs, they cannot be used to study complex dynamic behavior of living cells inside their physiologic environment. For this, recent advances in intravital imaging techniques, together with two-photon microscopy, offer an exciting opportunity to study such dynamic immunologic processes at the cellular level in the complex uterine and placental tissues. In this article, we review experimental imaging techniques that have been used for studying the uterus and placenta. In particular, we describe the advantages of intravital techniques and discuss novel procedures that can be used in reproductive immunology. We also describe several technical details involved in image sequence post-processing required to extract useful data. Finally, we conclude by discussing how the reproductive immunology field may benefit from the broad use of these intravital techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- David N Olivieri
- Escuela Superior de Ingeniería Informatica, University of Vigo, Vigo, Spain
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23
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Laschke M, Menger M. Anti-angiogenic treatment strategies for the therapy of endometriosis. Hum Reprod Update 2012; 18:682-702. [DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dms026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/30/2023] Open
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24
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Feng D, Welker S, Körbel C, Rudzitis-Auth J, Menger MD, Montenarh M, Laschke MW. Protein kinase CK2 is a regulator of angiogenesis in endometriotic lesions. Angiogenesis 2012; 15:243-52. [DOI: 10.1007/s10456-012-9256-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2011] [Accepted: 02/09/2012] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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25
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Laschke MW, Vorsterman van Oijen AE, Scheuer C, Menger MD. In vitro and in vivo evaluation of the anti-angiogenic actions of 4-hydroxybenzyl alcohol. Br J Pharmacol 2011; 163:835-44. [PMID: 21366552 PMCID: PMC3111685 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2011.01292.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2010] [Revised: 12/21/2010] [Accepted: 01/15/2011] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE 4-Hydroxybenzyl alcohol (HBA) is a phenolic plant compound, which has been shown to influence many cellular mechanisms. In the present study, we analysed in vitro and in vivo the anti-angiogenic actions of this pleiotropic agent. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Migration and protein expression of HBA- and vehicle-treated endothelial-like eEND2 cells was assessed by cell migration assay and Western blot analyses. HBA action on vascular sprouting was analysed in an aortic ring assay. In vivo anti-angiogenic actions of HBA were studied in the dorsal skinfold chamber model of endometriosis in mice. KEY RESULTS Western blot analyses demonstrated that HBA inhibited proliferation of eEND2 cells, as indicated by down-regulation of proliferating cell nuclear antigen expression, and reduced expression of vascular endothelial growth factor and matrix metalloproteinase 9. HBA suppressed the migration of eEND2 cells, accompanied by inhibition of actin filament reorganization, revealed by fluorescence staining of the cytoskeleton. In addition, HBA reduced vascular sprouting in the aortic ring assay. Finally, we found, in the dorsal skinfold chamber model in vivo using intravital fluorescence microscopy, that HBA inhibited the vascularization of developing endometriotic lesions, as indicated by a decreased functional capillary density of lesions in HBA-treated mice and a reduced lesion size, compared with control animals. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS HBA targets several angiogenic mechanisms and therefore represents a promising anti-angiogenic agent for the treatment of angiogenic diseases, such as endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- M W Laschke
- Institute for Clinical & Experimental Surgery, University of Saarland, Homburg/Saar, Germany.
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Roller J, Laschke MW, Tschernig T, Schramm R, Veith NT, Thorlacius H, Menger MD. How to detect a dwarf: in vivo imaging of nanoparticles in the lung. NANOMEDICINE-NANOTECHNOLOGY BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2011; 7:753-62. [PMID: 21419874 DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2011.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2010] [Revised: 02/10/2011] [Accepted: 02/24/2011] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Nanotechnology is a rapidly developing field in science and industry. The exposure to nanoparticles (NPs) will steadily grow in the future and there is thus an urgent need to study potential impacts of the interaction between NPs and the human body. The respiratory tract is the route of entry for all accidentally inhaled NPs. Moreover, NPs may intentionally be delivered into the lung as contrast agents and drug delivery systems. The present review provides an overview of currently used techniques for the in vivo imaging of NPs in the lung, including x-ray imaging, computed tomography, gamma camera imaging, positron emission tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, near-infrared imaging, and intravital fluorescence microscopy. Studies based on these techniques may contribute to the development of novel NP-based drug delivery systems and contrast agents. In addition, they may provide completely new insights into nanotoxicological processes. FROM THE CLINICAL EDITOR Nanoparticles are rapidly gaining ground in various therapeutic and diagnostic applications. This review provides an overview of current in vivo imaging techniques of NPs in the lung, including x-ray, CT, gamma camera imaging, PET, MRI, near-infrared imaging, and intravital fluorescence microscopy, aiding the development of novel NP-based techniques and nanotoxicology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Roller
- Institute for Clinical & Experimental Surgery, University of Saarland, Homburg/Saar, Germany.
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Endothelial progenitor cells contribute to the vascularization of endometriotic lesions. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2010; 178:442-50. [PMID: 21224081 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2010.11.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2010] [Revised: 07/26/2010] [Accepted: 09/21/2010] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a frequent gynecological disease that is characterized by the development of vascularized endometriotic lesions inside the peritoneal cavity. Herein, we analyzed whether circulating endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) are recruited and incorporated into the microvasculature of these lesions. Intraperitoneal endometriotic lesions were surgically induced in irradiated FVB/N mice, which were reconstituted with bone marrow from FVB/N-TgN (Tie2/green fluorescent protein [GFP]) 287 Sato mice. Vascularization and recruitment of GFP-positive EPCs in the lesions was analyzed by intravital fluorescence microscopy and immunohistochemistry over 4 weeks. The numbers of stem cell antigen-1 (Sca-1)/vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2-positive EPCs in blood and hematopoietic organs of additional endometriotic and control mice were assessed by flow cytometry. We found that approximately 15% of the microvascular endothelium in engrafting endometriotic lesions consisted of incorporated GFP-positive EPCs. Recruitment of EPCs into the lesions coincided with the establishment of own blood supply and the expression of stromal cell-derived factor-1. Accordingly, treatment with the stromal cell-derived factor-1/chemokine receptor type 4 axis antagonist AMD3100 significantly decreased the number of recruited EPCs and the vascularization of endometriotic lesions. However, endometriosis did not induce increased levels of EPCs in the blood, bone marrow, and spleen of C57BL/6 mice. To our knowledge, our findings indicate for the first time that vasculogenesis (ie, de novo generation of blood vessels from EPCs) may represent an integral mechanism in the pathogenesis of endometriosis.
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Katayama H, Katayama T, Uematsu K, Hiratsuka M, Kiyomura M, Shimizu Y, Sugita A, Ito M. Effect of dienogest administration on angiogenesis and hemodynamics in a rat endometrial autograft model. Hum Reprod 2010; 25:2851-8. [PMID: 20813806 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deq241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We aimed to establish an endometrial autograft model in rats that would allow for repetitive in vivo analyses of angiogenesis. Dienogest (DNG) is an orally active progestin used for the treatment of endometriosis. We investigated whether DNG would affect angiogenesis of the ectopic endometrium in our model. METHODS Mechanically isolated endometrial fragments were transplanted into dorsal skinfold chambers in rats. We analyzed the effect of DNG on angiogenesis of the ectopic endometrium on Days 0, 2, 4, 7, 10 and 14 after transplantation using intravital fluorescence microscopy. RESULTS The DNG-administered group showed significant suppression of angiogenesis of endometrial autografts, as indicated by the reduced size of the microvascular network and decreased microvessel density compared with those of control animals. The newly formed microvessels of the DNG-administered group showed consistently elevated diameters and centerline red blood cell velocity was decreased. Immunohistochemistry revealed a significant reduction in the level of perivascular α-smooth muscle actin within endometrial grafts of the DNG-administered group. CONCLUSIONS DNG inhibited angiogenesis of the ectopic endometrium, with confirmed structural changes in the microvessels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroko Katayama
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, Ehime University, Shitsukawa Toon, Ehime, Japan
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Körbel C, Menger MD, Laschke MW. Size and spatial orientation of uterine tissue transplants on the peritoneum crucially determine the growth and cyst formation of endometriosis-like lesions in mice. Hum Reprod 2010; 25:2551-8. [PMID: 20693239 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deq201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In many studies in rodents, intraperitoneal endometriosis-like lesions are surgically induced by syngeneic or autologous transplantation of uterine tissue samples, which are sutured to the abdominal wall. However, until now the surgical techniques have not been standardized, and we address this issue here. METHODS Uterine tissue samples were transplanted to the peritoneum of C57BL/6 mice (four study groups, n = 7 each). Using non-invasive high-resolution ultrasound imaging over a period of 4 weeks, we analyzed growth characteristics and cyst formation of the endometriosis-like lesions which developed, in relation to mode of transplantation (syngeneic versus autologous), type of tissue fixed adjacent to the peritoneum (endometrium versus perimetrium), and size of tissue transplanted (2 versus 3 mm). Immunohistochemical analysis was also performed. RESULTS When the perimetrium, with underlying myometrium, was sutured next to the host peritoneum the endometriosis-like lesions which developed exhibited a higher growth rate (P< 0.05 versus endometrium), and contained more proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA)-positive cells and an increased microvessel density (both P< 0.05 versus endometrium). In the group with 3 mm uterine tissue grafts, lesion growth was significantly decreased when compared with 2 mm samples (P< 0.05). However, the larger grafts developed more cysts throughout the observation period than the smaller ones. There was no difference between syngeneic and autologous endometriosis-like lesions. CONCLUSIONS Our study demonstrates that size and spatial orientation of peritoneally fixed uterine tissue samples crucially determine growth and cyst formation of endometriotic lesions in mice. These findings should improve the standardization and reliability of future studies, performed in the frequently used mouse model of surgically induced endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Körbel
- Institute for Clinical & Experimental Surgery, University of Saarland, 66421 Homburg/Saar, Germany
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Laschke MW, Schwender C, Vollmar B, Menger MD. Genistein Does Not Affect Vascularization and Blood Perfusion of Endometriotic Lesions and Ovarian Follicles in Dorsal Skinfold Chambers of Syrian Golden Hamsters. Reprod Sci 2010; 17:568-77. [DOI: 10.1177/1933719110364417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Matthias W. Laschke
- Institute for Clinical & Experimental Surgery, University of Saarland, Homburg/Saar, Germany,
| | - Christine Schwender
- Institute for Clinical & Experimental Surgery, University of Saarland, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Brigitte Vollmar
- Institute for Experimental Surgery, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Michael D. Menger
- Institute for Clinical & Experimental Surgery, University of Saarland, Homburg/Saar, Germany
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Debergh I, Van Damme N, Pattyn P, Peeters M, Ceelen WP. The low-molecular-weight heparin, nadroparin, inhibits tumour angiogenesis in a rodent dorsal skinfold chamber model. Br J Cancer 2010; 102:837-43. [PMID: 20125158 PMCID: PMC2833243 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bjc.6605535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 12/10/2009] [Accepted: 12/16/2009] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recently, low-molecular-weight heparins (LMWHs) were found to confer a survival advantage in cancer patients. The mechanism underlying this observation is unclear, but may involve inhibition of tumour angiogenesis. We aimed to examine the effects of nadroparin on tumour angiogenesis using a dorsal skinfold window chamber model in the Syrian hamster. METHODS AMel-3 and HAP-T1 tumours were grown in donor animals and fragments implanted in the window chambers. Animals (N=46) were treated with 200 IU of nadroparin or saline for 10 days. Repeated intravital fluorescence microscopy was performed to calculate functional microcirculatory parameters: number (N) and length (L) of microvessels, vascular area fraction (AF), and red blood cell velocity (V). Microvessel density (MVD), fractal dimension, and pericyte coverage were assessed histologically. RESULTS Active angiogenesis was observed in control animals, resulting in a significant increase in N, L, and AF. In nadroparin-treated animals, however, N and L did not increase whereas AF decreased significantly. Both groups showed an initial increase in V, but nadroparin treatment resulted in an earlier decrease in red blood cell velocity over time. Compared with control animals, nadroparin-treated animals showed a significantly lower MVD and fractal dimension but significantly higher pericyte coverage index (PCI). CONCLUSIONS Taken together, these results suggest that the LMWH nadroparin inhibits tumour angiogenesis and results in microvessel normalisation.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Debergh
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital, Ghent B-9000, Belgium
| | - N Van Damme
- Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospital, Ghent B-9000, Belgium
| | - P Pattyn
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital, Ghent B-9000, Belgium
| | - M Peeters
- Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospital, Ghent B-9000, Belgium
| | - W P Ceelen
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital, Ghent B-9000, Belgium
- Senior Clinical Investigator of the Research Foundation – Flanders (Belgium) (FWO)
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Kruchten P, Werth R, Marchais-Oberwinkler S, Bey E, Ziegler E, Oster A, Frotscher M, Hartmann RW. Development of biological assays for the identification of selective inhibitors of estradiol formation from estrone in rat liver preparations. CR CHIM 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.crci.2009.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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Staton CA, Reed MWR, Brown NJ. A critical analysis of current in vitro and in vivo angiogenesis assays. Int J Exp Pathol 2009; 90:195-221. [PMID: 19563606 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2613.2008.00633.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 332] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The study of angiogenesis has grown exponentially over the past 40 years with the recognition that angiogenesis is essential for numerous pathologies and, more recently, with the advent of successful drugs to inhibit angiogenesis in tumours. The main problem with angiogenesis research remains the choice of appropriate assays to evaluate the efficacy of potential new drugs and to identify potential targets within the angiogenic process. This selection is made more complex by the recognition that heterogeneity occurs, not only within the endothelial cells themselves, but also within the specific microenvironment to be studied. Thus, it is essential to choose the assay conditions and cell types that most closely resemble the angiogenic disease being studied. This is especially important when aiming to translate data from in vitro to in vivo and from preclinical to the clinic. Here we critically review and highlight recent advances in the principle assays in common use including those for endothelial cell proliferation, migration, differentiation and co-culture with fibroblasts and mural cells in vitro, vessel outgrowth from organ cultures and in vivo assays such as chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM), zebrafish, sponge implantation, corneal, dorsal air sac, chamber and tumour angiogenesis models. Finally, we briefly discuss the direction likely to be taken in future studies, which include the use of increasingly sophisticated imaging analysis systems for data acquisition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn A Staton
- Microcirculation Research Group, Academic Unit of Surgical Oncology, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK.
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Kruchten P, Werth R, Marchais-Oberwinkler S, Frotscher M, Hartmann RW. Development of a biological screening system for the evaluation of highly active and selective 17beta-HSD1-inhibitors as potential therapeutic agents. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2009; 301:154-7. [PMID: 18984028 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2008.09.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2008] [Revised: 09/26/2008] [Accepted: 09/27/2008] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
17beta-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (17beta-HSD1) catalyses the intracellular conversion of oestrone (E1) to oestradiol (E2). E2 is known to be involved in the development and progression of breast cancer and endometriosis. Since 17beta-HSD1 is overexpressed in these oestrogen-dependent diseases, inhibition of this enzyme may be a more target-directed therapeutical approach compared to established medical treatments. For the identification of highly active and selective 17beta-HSD1-inhibitors that are suitable for application as potential therapeutics, there is a need for an appropriate, efficient and reliable screening system. Here, we report the development and application of our screening system using our in house library of potential 17beta-HSD1-inhibitors. Four potent and selective compounds with a good first pharmacokinetic profile were identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Kruchten
- 8.2 Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Saarland University, PO Box 15 11 50, D-66041 Saarbrücken, Germany
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Laschke MW, Schwender C, Scheuer C, Vollmar B, Menger MD. Dietary glycine does not affect physiological angiogenesis and reproductive function, but inhibits apoptosis in endometrial and ovarian tissue by down-regulation of nuclear factor-κB. Fertil Steril 2008; 90:1460-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2007.08.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2007] [Revised: 07/26/2007] [Accepted: 08/16/2007] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Laschke MW, Schwender C, Scheuer C, Vollmar B, Menger MD. Epigallocatechin-3-gallate inhibits estrogen-induced activation of endometrial cells in vitro and causes regression of endometriotic lesions in vivo. Hum Reprod 2008; 23:2308-18. [PMID: 18603648 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/den245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), the major component of green tea, is a pleiotropic substance, which may inhibit tumor growth via multiple intracellular signaling pathways. Herein, we studied whether EGCG may also be effective in the treatment of endometriosis. METHODS We investigated the effect of EGCG on activation by estradiol (E(2)), proliferation and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression of isolated hamster endometrial stromal cells and glandular cells in vitro using the water-soluble tetrazolium (WST)-1 colorimetric assay and western blot analysis. In the dorsal skinfold chamber model of Syrian golden hamsters, which were treated for 14 days with EGCG or vehicle, we further analyzed angiogenesis, blood perfusion and tissue integrity of both endometriotic lesions and ovarian follicles by intravital fluorescence microscopy and histology. RESULTS We found that EGCG suppresses E(2)-stimulated activation, proliferation and VEGF expression of endometrial cells in vitro (all P < 0.05). Furthermore, EGCG selectively inhibited angiogenesis and blood perfusion (P < 0.05) of endometriotic lesions in vivo without affecting blood vessel development in ovarian follicles. Histology confirmed that EGCG-treatment induces regression of the endometriotic lesions. CONCLUSIONS Our data indicate that EGCG might be a promising therapeutic agent in the treatment of endometriosis, preventing the establishment of new endometriotic lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias W Laschke
- Institute for Clinical and Experimental Surgery, University of Saarland, Homburg, Saar, 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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Laschke MW, Menger MD. In vitro and in vivo approaches to study angiogenesis in the pathophysiology and therapy of endometriosis. Hum Reprod Update 2007; 13:331-42. [PMID: 17347159 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmm006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis represents one of the most common gynaecological disorders. According to the implantation theory, angiogenesis is a major prerequisite for the initiation and progression of the disease. Thus, during the last decade, many studies have focused on the mechanisms regulating angiogenesis in endometriotic lesions. For this purpose, sophisticated in vitro and in vivo approaches have been established, which are highlighted in this review. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays demonstrate the imbalance of pro- and anti-angiogenic growth factors in isolated peritoneal fluid from endometriosis patients. Histological, immunohistochemical and gene expression analyses of endometriotic tissue provide detailed information on the angio-architecture of endometriotic lesions and the different growth factor expression by various cell populations. Moreover, cell culture systems are useful tools for the identification of hormonal and immunological factors involved in the angiogenic process. Finally, sophisticated in vivo models, such as rodent models of peritoneal endometriosis as well as the chorioallantoic membrane assay and the dorsal skinfold chamber, allow for the detailed analysis of blood vessel development in ectopic endometrium and the efficacy of angiogenesis inhibitors. The findings resulting from all these approaches will help to provide better insights into the pathophysiology of endometriosis and to establish new anti-angiogenic treatment strategies for the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias W Laschke
- Institute for Clinical and Experimental Surgery, University of Saarland, D-66421 Homburg/Saar, Germany.
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LASCHKE M, ELITZSCH A, SCHEUER C, VOLLMAR B, MENGER M. Selective cyclo-oxygenase-2 inhibition induces regression of autologous endometrial grafts by down-regulation of vascular endothelial growth factor-mediated angiogenesis and stimulation of caspase-3-dependent apoptosis. Fertil Steril 2007; 87:163-71. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2006.05.068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2006] [Revised: 05/29/2006] [Accepted: 05/29/2006] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Esfandiari N, Khazaei M, Ai J, Bielecki R, Gotlieb L, Ryan E, Casper RF. Effect of a statin on an in vitro model of endometriosis. Fertil Steril 2006; 87:257-62. [PMID: 17097652 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2006.06.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2006] [Revised: 06/22/2006] [Accepted: 06/22/2006] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the inhibitory effect of a statin on angiogenesis in a three-dimensional (3-D) culture of human endometrial fragments in vitro. Angiogenesis has been proposed as an important mechanism in the pathogenesis of endometriosis, and statins (3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase inhibitors) have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic activity. DESIGN Experimental in vitro study of human endometrial biopsies and 3-D culture in fibrin matrix. SETTING Research laboratory at a university-affiliated infertility center. PATIENT(S) Forty-six normal ovulating women undergoing infertility treatment. INTERVENTION(S) Endometrial samples obtained from the fundus of the uterine cavity were minced, and the fragments were placed in a three-dimensional fibrin matrix culture system. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Presence or absence of proliferation of stromal cells and invasion of the fibrin matrix, presence or absence of vessel sprouting, and immunohistochemical characterization of cellular components. RESULT(S) During the 1st week of culture, invasion of stromal cells into the fibrin matrix occurred in the control group and in some wells outgrowths were observed. After 2 weeks, endometrial glands were observed in the outgrowths at a distance from the main tissue and were growing in conjunction with new vessel formation until the end of culture period. A concentration-dependent effect of lovostatin was seen on cell growth and angiogenesis in the experimental groups. In the presence of 5 and 10 microM of statin, angiogenesis was abolished, and cell proliferation was inhibited. In the presence of 1 microM of lovastatin, angiogenesis was reduced, but cell proliferation was not affected. CONCLUSION(S) The statins were shown to be effective in inhibiting the mechanisms of cell proliferation and angiogenesis in an experimental model for the development of endometriosis-like tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Navid Esfandiari
- Toronto Centre for Advanced Reproductive Technology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Sciences, Samuel Lunenfeld Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Laschke MW, Elitzsch A, Scheuer C, Holstein JH, Vollmar B, Menger MD. Rapamycin induces regression of endometriotic lesions by inhibiting neovascularization and cell proliferation. Br J Pharmacol 2006; 149:137-44. [PMID: 16894343 PMCID: PMC2013796 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bjp.0706857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Rapamycin is a widely used drug with antifungal, immunosuppressant and antiangiogenic effects. Herein, we studied whether immunosuppressive doses of rapamycin are capable of influencing endometriotic lesions. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH We tested in vitro the potential of rapamycin to inhibit endothelial cell sprouting using the aortic ring assay and we further studied its effect on the expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), apoptotic cell death-associated activated caspase-3 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in cultured endometrial tissue fragments. In addition, we analyzed the drug in vivo after induction of endometriotic lesions by transplanting isolated endometrial fragments into the dorsal skinfold chamber of Syrian golden hamsters. Using intravital fluorescence microscopy, we repetitively analyzed angiogenesis, neovascularization and microcirculatory parameters over a time period of 14 days in rapamycin-treated animals and DMSO-treated controls. KEY RESULTS Administration of rapamycin significantly reduced the size of the endometriotic lesions. This was associated by inhibition of VEGF-mediated angiogenesis as indicated by a suppression of endothelial cell sprouting in vitro and a reduction of microvessel density in endometriotic lesions in vivo. Moreover, rapamycin directly inhibited cell proliferation within endometrial tissue, while manifestation of apoptotic cell death remained unaffected. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Our data indicate that administration of rapamycin may represent a novel therapeutic approach for an antiangiogenic treatment of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- M W Laschke
- Institute for Clinical and Experimental Surgery, University of Saarland, Homburg/Saar, Germany.
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Abstract
Oral contraceptives, androgenic agents, progestins and gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogues have all been successfully used in the treatment of endometriosis. However, none of these drugs can eradicate the disease. It is widely accepted that the growth of newly formed blood vessels is essential for the establishment and growth of endometriotic lesions; therefore, inhibition of angiogenesis may offer a new option for treatment of this disorder. In this paper, we reviewed anti-vascular endothelial growth factor agents and other angiostatic drugs (i.e., TNP470, endostatin, anginex, rapamycin) that have been studied in laboratory and animal models of endometriosis. Although preliminary results are interesting, further investigations are required before clinical trials can be planned in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Ferrero
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, San Martino Hospital and University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.
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