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Qing X, Xie M, Liu P, Feng O, Leng H, Guo H, Zhang Y, Ma Y, Zheng W. Correlation between dysbiosis of vaginal microecology and endometriosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0306780. [PMID: 38976704 PMCID: PMC11230536 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0306780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometriosis, a complex gynecological condition, involves inflammation and immune dysregulation. The vaginal microbiota, characterized by its diversity, is an integral part of the vaginal microecology-interacting with vaginal anatomy, the endocrine system, and local mucosal immunity. Imbalances in this microecology are known to precipitate various inflammatory diseases. Despite extensive research, the connection between vaginal microbiota dysbiosis and endometriosis remains a subject of debate. Our study assesses the association between vaginal microecology dysbiosis and endometriosis. METHODS We systematically searched major electronic databases in English, including Embase, PubMed, The Cochrane Library, MEDLINE (Ovid), BIOSIS (Ovid), China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and Wanfang, up to August 15, 2023. Selected articles underwent screening based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Normal vaginal microecology was defined as a negative Amsel/Spiegel test or Nugent score of 0-3, or Lactobacillus predominance determined by 16S rRNA gene amplification sequencing. Deviations from this norm were classified as dysbiosis, further categorized into bacterial vaginosis (BV) and intermediate BV. Data analysis utilized Revman 5.4, with effect sizes presented as Odds Ratios (OR) and 95% Confidence Intervals (CI). RESULTS Out of 1081 articles, eight met the inclusion criteria. Utilizing fixed-effect models due to low heterogeneity, the analysis revealed a positive association between dysbiosis and endometriosis (OR = 1.17, 95% CI 0.81-1.70; I2 = 0%), but showed a slight negative association between normal vaginal microecology with endometriosis (OR = 0.90, 95% CI 0.55-1.46; I2 = 29%). However, the association was not significant. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses corroborated the stability of these associations. CONCLUSION A positive correlation exists between vaginal microecology dysbiosis and endometriosis, notably with intermediate BV. However, the mechanisms underpinning this relationship remain elusive, highlighting the need for further research to overcome limitations. TRIAL REGISTRATION Registration number: CRD42023445163.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuemei Qing
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qingbaijiang District People’s Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Min Xie
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qingbaijiang District People’s Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Ping Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qingbaijiang District People’s Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Ou Feng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qingbaijiang District People’s Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Hong Leng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qingbaijiang District People’s Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Hongying Guo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qingbaijiang District People’s Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mianyang Central Hospital, Mianyang, Sichuan, China
| | - Ying Ma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mianyang Central Hospital, Mianyang, Sichuan, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Wenxin Zheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Pathology, Harold C Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States of America
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Tavana Z, Askary E, Far MM, Fatehpoor F, Frooghinia S, Abadi AKH, Chamanara K, Alborzi S. Significant increased isolation of Escherichia coli in Iranian women with endometriosis: a case control - study. BMC Womens Health 2024; 24:383. [PMID: 38961459 PMCID: PMC11221174 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-024-03229-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The role of bacterial contamination in the development and progression of endometriosis lesions is currently a hot topic for gynecologists. In this study, we decided to compare the endometrial cultures of women affected by endometriosis with those of non-endometriotic women, focusing on specific microbial pathogens. MATERIAL AND METHOD In this cross-sectional case-control study, 30 women with endometriosis in stages 4 of the disease whose endometriosis was confirmed based on clinical, ultrasound, and histopathological findings, and 30 women without endometriosis who were candidates for surgery due to benign uterine diseases with regular menstrual cycle, underwent endometrial biopsy with Novak Kort in sterile conditions before starting their operation, and the results of their endometrial culture were analyzed and compared. RESULTS Results of the study indicate that there were no significant differences in terms of age, BMI, smoking, education level, place of residency, use of the intrauterine device, or vaginal douche, and age of menarche between the case and control groups. The only demographic difference observed was in parity, where the control group had a significantly higher parity than the case group (P = 0.001). Out of the 60 cultures, only 15 samples were positive in the endometriosis group, and E. coli was the most prevalent species, with 10 (33.3%) samples testing positive for it. Klebsiella spp. and Enterobacteria spp. were also detected in 3 (10.0%) and 2 (6.7%) samples, respectively. The comparison between the two groups showed that only E. coli had a significant association with the presence of endometriosis (P = 0.001). There was no significant relationship between the location of endometriosis in the pelvic cavity and culture results. It was observed that parity among the E. coli negative group was significantly higher compared to the E. coli positive group (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION Based on The high occurrence of E. coli in women with endometriosis, along with its potential involvement in the progression and/or recurrence of this condition, the researchers propose that treating women with endometriosis and recurrent IVF failure, as well as those with endometriosis recurrence after surgical treatment, with suitable antibiotics and repeated culture until the culture becomes negative, could be beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zohreh Tavana
- Obstetrics & Gynecology, Fellowship of infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Infertility Research Center, Shiraz University Of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Elham Askary
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fellowship of Gynecologic Endoscopy, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Maternal-Fetal medicine Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Obstetrics and Gynecology Office, Shahid Faghihi Hospital, Zand Avenue, Shiraz, 7134844119, Iran.
| | - Mohammad Motamedi Far
- Medical Microbiology, Department of Bacteriology and Virology, HIV/AIDS Research Center, Institute of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Faranak Fatehpoor
- Obstetrics & Gynecologist, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Saeedeh Frooghinia
- Fellowship of Gynecologic Endoscopy, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Alimohammad Keshtvarz Hesam Abadi
- Department of BioStatistics, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Fellowship of Gynecologic Endoscopy, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Kefayat Chamanara
- Fellowship of Gynecologic Endoscopy, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Saeed Alborzi
- Saeed Alborzi, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Laparoscopy Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Liu H, Li J, Guan C, Gao W, Li Y, Wang J, Yang Y, Du Y. Endometriosis is a disease of immune dysfunction, which could be linked to microbiota. Front Genet 2024; 15:1386411. [PMID: 38974388 PMCID: PMC11227297 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2024.1386411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Endometriosis, characterized by extrauterine endometrial tissue, leads to irregular bleeding and pelvic pain. Menstrual retrograde theory suggests fragments traverse fallopian tubes, causing inflammation and scar tissue. Prevalent among infertile women, risk factors include fewer pregnancies, delayed childbirth, irregular cycles, and familial predisposition. Treatments, medication, and surgery entail side effects. Studies link gut microbiota alterations to endometriosis, necessitating research to establish causation. We used Mendelian randomization to investigate the potential link between endometriosis and gut microbiota through genetic variants. Methods: Two-sample Mendelian randomization analyzed gut microbiota's potential causal effects on endometriosis. Instrumental variables, robustly associated with exposures, leveraged GWAS data from MiBioGen for gut microbiota and FinnGen R8 release for endometriosis. SNPs strongly associated with exposures were instrumental variables. Rigorous assessments ensured SNP impact scrutiny on endometriosis. Results: At the genus level, Anaerotruncus, Desulfovibrio, Haemophilus, and Holdemania showed causal association with endometriosis. Specific gut microbiota exhibited causal effects on different endometriosis stages. Holdemania and Ruminococcaceae UCG002 exerted reversible, stage-specific impacts. Conclusion: Mendelian randomization provides evidence for the causal link between specific gut microbiotas and endometriosis, emphasizing the pivotal role of gut microbiota dysbiosis. Modulating gut microbiota emerges as a promising strategy for preventing and treating endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyan Liu
- Department of Family Planning, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Junxia Li
- Department of Family Planning, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Chenchen Guan
- Department of Family Planning, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
- Department of Bioinformatics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Wenjie Gao
- Department of Family Planning, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Family Planning, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Jianmei Wang
- Department of Family Planning, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of Family Planning, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
- Department of Bioinformatics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yongrui Du
- Department of Family Planning, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
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Liu M, Peng R, Tian C, Shi J, Ma J, Shi R, Qi X, Zhao R, Guan H. Effects of the gut microbiota and its metabolite short-chain fatty acids on endometriosis. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1373004. [PMID: 38938880 PMCID: PMC11208329 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1373004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, a growing body of research has confirmed that the gut microbiota plays a major role in the maintenance of human health and disease. A gut microbiota imbalance can lead to the development of many diseases, such as pregnancy complications, adverse pregnancy outcomes, polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis, and cancer. Short-chain fatty acids are metabolites of specific intestinal bacteria and are crucial for maintaining intestinal homeostasis and regulating metabolism and immunity. Endometriosis is the result of cell proliferation, escape from immune surveillance, and invasive metastasis. There is a strong correlation between the anti-proliferative and anti-inflammatory effects of short-chain fatty acids produced by gut microbes and the development of endometriosis. Given that the mechanism of action of gut microbiota and Short-chain fatty acids in endometriosis remain unclear, this paper aims to provide a comprehensive review of the complex interactions between intestinal flora, short-chain fatty acids and endometriosis. In addition, we explored potential microbial-based treatment strategies for endometriosis, providing new insights into the future development of diagnostic tests and prevention and treatment methods for endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menghe Liu
- College of Pharmacy, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
| | - Ru Peng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hohhot Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
| | - Chunfang Tian
- Department of Oncology, Inner Mongolia Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
| | - Jianping Shi
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
| | - Jiannan Ma
- College of Pharmacy, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
| | - Ruiwen Shi
- College of Pharmacy, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
| | - Xiao Qi
- College of Pharmacy, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
| | - Rongwei Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
| | - Haibin Guan
- College of Pharmacy, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
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Cuffaro F, Russo E, Amedei A. Endometriosis, Pain, and Related Psychological Disorders: Unveiling the Interplay among the Microbiome, Inflammation, and Oxidative Stress as a Common Thread. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6473. [PMID: 38928175 PMCID: PMC11203696 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2024] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis (EM), a chronic condition in endometrial tissue outside the uterus, affects around 10% of reproductive-age women, significantly affecting fertility. Its prevalence remains elusive due to the surgical confirmation needed for diagnosis. Manifesting with a range of symptoms, including dysmenorrhea, dyschezia, dysuria, dyspareunia, fatigue, and gastrointestinal discomfort, EM significantly impairs quality of life due to severe chronic pelvic pain (CPP). Psychological manifestations, notably depression and anxiety, frequently accompany the physical symptoms, with CPP serving as a key mediator. Pain stems from endometrial lesions, involving oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, angiogenesis, and sensitization processes. Microbial dysbiosis appears to be crucial in the inflammatory mechanisms underlying EM and associated CPP, as well as psychological symptoms. In this scenario, dietary interventions and nutritional supplements could help manage EM symptoms by targeting inflammation, oxidative stress, and the microbiome. Our manuscript starts by delving into the complex relationship between EM pain and psychological comorbidities. It subsequently addresses the emerging roles of the microbiome, inflammation, and oxidative stress as common links among these abovementioned conditions. Furthermore, the review explores how dietary and nutritional interventions may influence the composition and function of the microbiome, reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, alleviate pain, and potentially affect EM-associated psychological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Cuffaro
- Division of Interdisciplinary Internal Medicine, Careggi University Hospital of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy;
| | - Edda Russo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Amedeo Amedei
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy
- Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), 50139 Florence, Italy
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6
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Paterson ESJ, Scheck S, McDowell S, Bedford N, Girling JE, Henry CE. Comparison of cervicovaginal fluid extracellular vesicles isolated from paired cervical brushes and vaginal swabs. JOURNAL OF EXTRACELLULAR BIOLOGY 2024; 3:e153. [PMID: 38939571 PMCID: PMC11080783 DOI: 10.1002/jex2.153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a common gynaecological condition, with a long diagnostic delay. Surgery is required to confirm a diagnosis, highlighting the need for a non-invasive biomarker. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) may have a role in endometriosis pathogenesis, yet there is limited EV biomarker literature available. This study aimed to investigate the feasibility of isolating cervico-vaginal fluid EVs sampled using cervical brushes and vaginal swabs and to compare these methods. After providing informed consent, patients undergoing surgery for suspected endometriosis had cervical brush and vaginal swab samples collected under general anaesthetic. Isolated EVs were characterised through negative stain transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Western blotting (TSG101, CD63, Calnexin, ApoB, Albumin), tunable resistive pulse sensing (TRPS), microBCA assays and RT-qPCR of miRNAs. PCR was performed on samples prior to EV isolation to assess bacteria present in samples. Cervical brush and vaginal swab EVs were intact vesicles with limited co-isolated contaminants. Cervical brushes had higher concentrations of particles compared to match vaginal swabs, although both samples had low concentrations. Protein and miRNA yield were similar between matched samples. PCR demonstrated only a small amount DNA within samples was bacterial (>0.5%). Cervico-vaginal fluids EVs were successfully isolated from cervical brushes and vaginal swabs, demonstrating a new method of sampling reproductive EVs. EV yield from both sample types was low. Similar protein and miRNA levels suggest either sampling method may be suitable for biomarker studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Simon Scheck
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Women's HealthUniversity of OtagoWellington, AotearoaNew Zealand
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyWellington Hospital, Te Whatu Ora ‐ Capital, Coast and Hutt ValleyWellington, AotearoaNew Zealand
| | - Simon McDowell
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyWellington Hospital, Te Whatu Ora ‐ Capital, Coast and Hutt ValleyWellington, AotearoaNew Zealand
| | - Nick Bedford
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyWellington Hospital, Te Whatu Ora ‐ Capital, Coast and Hutt ValleyWellington, AotearoaNew Zealand
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Dicks LMT. Gut Bacteria Provide Genetic and Molecular Reporter Systems to Identify Specific Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4431. [PMID: 38674014 PMCID: PMC11050607 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25084431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
With genetic information gained from next-generation sequencing (NGS) and genome-wide association studies (GWAS), it is now possible to select for genes that encode reporter molecules that may be used to detect abnormalities such as alcohol-related liver disease (ARLD), cancer, cognitive impairment, multiple sclerosis (MS), diabesity, and ischemic stroke (IS). This, however, requires a thorough understanding of the gut-brain axis (GBA), the effect diets have on the selection of gut microbiota, conditions that influence the expression of microbial genes, and human physiology. Bacterial metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) play a major role in gut homeostasis, maintain intestinal epithelial cells (IECs), and regulate the immune system, neurological, and endocrine functions. Changes in butyrate levels may serve as an early warning of colon cancer. Other cancer-reporting molecules are colibactin, a genotoxin produced by polyketide synthetase-positive Escherichia coli strains, and spermine oxidase (SMO). Increased butyrate levels are also associated with inflammation and impaired cognition. Dysbiosis may lead to increased production of oxidized low-density lipoproteins (OX-LDLs), known to restrict blood vessels and cause hypertension. Sudden changes in SCFA levels may also serve as a warning of IS. Early signs of ARLD may be detected by an increase in regenerating islet-derived 3 gamma (REG3G), which is associated with changes in the secretion of mucin-2 (Muc2). Pro-inflammatory molecules such as cytokines, interferons, and TNF may serve as early reporters of MS. Other examples of microbial enzymes and metabolites that may be used as reporters in the early detection of life-threatening diseases are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leon M T Dicks
- Department of Microbiology, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch 7600, South Africa
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Khan KN, de Ziegler D, Guo SW. Bacterial infection in endometriosis: a silver-lining for the development of new non-hormonal therapy? Hum Reprod 2024; 39:623-631. [PMID: 38300227 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deae006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 12/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The pathogenesis of endometriosis is a hotly debated topic, yet still cloaked in multiple layers of hypothetical theories. A recent report raises the possibility that bacterial infection, especially those of the genus Fusobacterium, may be the cause of endometriosis, at least in certain women. More importantly, the demonstration that treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics significantly reduced the size of lesions in a mouse endometriosis model rekindles the hope for new non-hormonal treatments. The development of new therapies has been plagued by strings of unsuccessful clinical trials over the last two decades. Is this antibiotic therapy, a silver lining for the research and development of non-hormonal drugs for endometriosis?
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Affiliation(s)
- Khaleque N Khan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Clinical and Translational Research Center, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | | | - Sun-Wei Guo
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Research Institute, Shanghai Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Cheng YH, Huang CW, Lien HT, Hsiao YY, Weng PL, Chang YC, Cheng JH, Lan KC. A Preliminary Investigation of the Roles of Endometrial Cells in Endometriosis Development via In Vitro and In Vivo Analyses. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3873. [PMID: 38612685 PMCID: PMC11011664 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a complex gynecological disease that affects more than 10% of women in their reproductive years. While surgery can provide temporary relief from women's pain, symptoms often return in as many as 75% of cases within two years. Previous literature has contributed to theories about the development of endometriosis; however, the exact pathogenesis and etiology remain elusive. We conducted a preliminary investigation into the influence of primary endometrial cells (ECs) on the development and progression of endometriosis. In vitro studies, they were involved in inducing Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in rat-isolated primary endometrial cells, which resulted in increased nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) mRNA gene expression (quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis, qPCR) and protein expression (western blot analysis). Additionally, in vivo studies utilized autogenic and allogeneic transplantations (rat to rat) to investigate endometriosis-like lesion cyst size, body weight, protein levels (immunohistochemistry), and mRNA gene expression. These studies demonstrated that estrogen upregulates the gene and protein regulation of cytoskeletal (CK)-18, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), VEGF, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, particularly in the peritoneum. These findings may influence cell proliferation, angiogenesis, fibrosis, and inflammation markers. Consequently, this could exacerbate the occurrence and progression of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin-Hua Cheng
- Department of Medical Research and Development, Jen-Ai Hospital, Taichung 412, Taiwan;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (H.-T.L.); (Y.-Y.H.); (P.-L.W.); (Y.-C.C.)
| | - Ching-Wei Huang
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Jen-Ai Hospital, Taichung 412, Taiwan;
| | - Hao-Ting Lien
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (H.-T.L.); (Y.-Y.H.); (P.-L.W.); (Y.-C.C.)
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, Chang Gung University College, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Yang Hsiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (H.-T.L.); (Y.-Y.H.); (P.-L.W.); (Y.-C.C.)
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, Chang Gung University College, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Ling Weng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (H.-T.L.); (Y.-Y.H.); (P.-L.W.); (Y.-C.C.)
| | - Yung-Chiao Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (H.-T.L.); (Y.-Y.H.); (P.-L.W.); (Y.-C.C.)
| | - Jai-Hong Cheng
- Center for Shockwave Medicine and Tissue Engineering, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan;
- Medical Research, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
- Department of Leisure and Sports Management, Cheng Shiu University, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Chung Lan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (H.-T.L.); (Y.-Y.H.); (P.-L.W.); (Y.-C.C.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jen-Ai Hospital, Taichung 412, Taiwan
- Center for Menopause and Reproductive Medicine Research, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
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10
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Guo C, Zhang C. Role of the gut microbiota in the pathogenesis of endometriosis: a review. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1363455. [PMID: 38505548 PMCID: PMC10948423 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1363455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is classically defined as a chronic inflammatory heterogeneous disorder occurring in any part of the body, characterized by estrogen-driven periodic bleeding, proliferation, and fibrosis of ectopic endometrial glands and stroma outside the uterus. Endometriosis can take overwhelmingly serious damage to the structure and function of multi-organ, even impair whole-body systems, resulting in severe dysmenorrhea, chronic pelvic pain, infertility, fatigue and depression in 5-10% women of reproductive age. Precisely because of a huge deficiency of cognition about underlying etiology and complex pathogenesis of the debilitating disease, early diagnosis and treatment modalities with relatively minor side effects become bottlenecks in endometriosis. Thus, endometriosis warrants deeper exploration and expanded investigation in pathogenesis. The gut microbiota plays a significant role in chronic diseases in humans by acting as an important participant and regulator in the metabolism and immunity of the body. Increasingly, studies have shown that the gut microbiota is closely related to inflammation, estrogen metabolism, and immunity resulting in the development and progression of endometriosis. In this review, we discuss the diverse mechanisms of endometriosis closely related to the gut microbiota in order to provide new approaches for deeper exploration and expanded investigation for endometriosis on prevention, early diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chiyuan Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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11
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Tang F, Deng M, Xu C, Yang R, Ji X, Hao M, Wang Y, Tian M, Geng Y, Miao J. Unraveling the microbial puzzle: exploring the intricate role of gut microbiota in endometriosis pathogenesis. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1328419. [PMID: 38435309 PMCID: PMC10904627 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1328419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis (EMs) is a prevalent gynecological disorder characterized by the growth of uterine tissue outside the uterine cavity, causing debilitating symptoms and infertility. Despite its prevalence, the exact mechanisms behind EMs development remain incompletely understood. This article presents a comprehensive overview of the relationship between gut microbiota imbalance and EMs pathogenesis. Recent research indicates that gut microbiota plays a pivotal role in various aspects of EMs, including immune regulation, generation of inflammatory factors, angiopoietin release, hormonal regulation, and endotoxin production. Dysbiosis of gut microbiota can disrupt immune responses, leading to inflammation and impaired immune clearance of endometrial fragments, resulting in the development of endometriotic lesions. The dysregulated microbiota can contribute to the release of lipopolysaccharide (LPS), triggering chronic inflammation and promoting ectopic endometrial adhesion, invasion, and angiogenesis. Furthermore, gut microbiota involvement in estrogen metabolism affects estrogen levels, which are directly related to EMs development. The review also highlights the potential of gut microbiota as a diagnostic tool and therapeutic target for EMs. Interventions such as fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) and the use of gut microbiota preparations have demonstrated promising effects in reducing EMs symptoms. Despite the progress made, further research is needed to unravel the intricate interactions between gut microbiota and EMs, paving the way for more effective prevention and treatment strategies for this challenging condition.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Jinwei Miao
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, China
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12
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Cocomazzi G, Del Pup L, Contu V, Maggio G, Parmegiani L, Ciampaglia W, De Ruvo D, Faioli R, Maglione A, Baldini GM, Baldini D, Pazienza V. Gynecological Cancers and Microbiota Dynamics: Insights into Pathogenesis and Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2237. [PMID: 38396914 PMCID: PMC10889201 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25042237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, the relationship between the microbiota and various aspects of health has become a focal point of scientific investigation. Although the most studied microbiota concern the gastrointestinal tract, recently, the interest has also been extended to other body districts. Female genital tract dysbiosis and its possible impact on pathologies such as endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), and gynecological cancers have been unveiled. The incursion of pathogenic microbes alters the ecological equilibrium of the vagina, triggering inflammation and compromising immune defense, potentially fostering an environment conducive to cancer development. The most common types of gynecological cancer include cervical, endometrial, and ovarian cancer, which occur in women of any age but especially in postmenopausal women. Several studies highlighted that a low presence of lactobacilli at the vaginal level, and consequently, in related areas (such as the endometrium and ovary), correlates with a higher risk of gynecological pathology and likely contributes to increased incidence and worse prognosis of gynecological cancers. The complex interplay between microbial communities and the development, progression, and treatment of gynecologic malignancies is a burgeoning field not yet fully understood. The intricate crosstalk between the gut microbiota and systemic inflammation introduces a new dimension to our understanding of gynecologic cancers. The objective of this review is to focus attention on the association between vaginal microbiota and gynecological malignancies and provide detailed knowledge for future diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Cocomazzi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Fondazione IRCCS-Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, FG, Italy;
| | - Lino Del Pup
- Gynecological Endocrinology and Fertility, University Sanitary Agency Friuli Central (ASUFC), Via Pozzuolo, 330, 33100 Udine, FVG, Italy;
| | - Viviana Contu
- Integrative Medicine Unit, Humanitas Gradenigo, Corso Regina Margherita 8/10, 10153 Torino, FC, Italy;
| | - Gabriele Maggio
- Pia Fondazione Cardinale Giovanni Panico, Via S. Pio X, 4, 73039 Tricase, LE, Italy;
| | - Lodovico Parmegiani
- Next Fertility GynePro, NextClinics International Via T. Cremona 8, 40137 Bologna, RE, Italy; (L.P.); (W.C.)
| | - Walter Ciampaglia
- Next Fertility GynePro, NextClinics International Via T. Cremona 8, 40137 Bologna, RE, Italy; (L.P.); (W.C.)
| | - Daniele De Ruvo
- Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Reproductive Medicine Affidea Promea, Via Menabrea 14, 10126 Torino, TO, Italy;
| | - Raffaele Faioli
- Gynecology and Obstetrics, IRCCS “Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza”, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, FG, Italy; (R.F.); (A.M.)
| | - Annamaria Maglione
- Gynecology and Obstetrics, IRCCS “Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza”, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, FG, Italy; (R.F.); (A.M.)
| | - Giorgio Maria Baldini
- IVF Center, Momò Fertilife, 76011 Bisceglie Via Cala dell’Arciprete, 76011 Bisceglie, BT, Italy; (G.M.B.); (D.B.)
| | - Domenico Baldini
- IVF Center, Momò Fertilife, 76011 Bisceglie Via Cala dell’Arciprete, 76011 Bisceglie, BT, Italy; (G.M.B.); (D.B.)
| | - Valerio Pazienza
- Division of Gastroenterology, Fondazione IRCCS-Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, FG, Italy;
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13
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Yoneda E, Kim S, Tomita K, Minase T, Kayano M, Watanabe H, Tetsuka M, Sasaki M, Iwayama H, Sanai H, Muranishi Y. Evaluation of Lipopolysaccharide and Interleukin-6 as Useful Screening Tool for Chronic Endometritis. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2017. [PMID: 38396694 PMCID: PMC10888589 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25042017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2023] [Revised: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Universal diagnostic criteria for chronic endometritis (CE) have not been established due to differences in study design among researchers and a lack of typical clinical cases. Lipopolysaccharides (LPSs) have been reported to cause inflammation in the reproductive systems of several animals. This study aimed to elucidate the influence of LPS in the pathogenesis of CE in humans. We investigated whether LPS affected cytokine production and cell proliferation in the endometrium using in vivo and in vitro experiments. LPS concentrations were analyzed between control and CE patients using endometrial tissues. LPS administration stimulated the proliferation of EM-E6/E7 cells derived from human endometrial cells. High LPS concentrations were detected in CE patients. LPS concentration was found to correlate with IL-6 gene expression in the endometrium. Inflammation signaling evoked by LPS led to the onset of CE, since LPS stimulates inflammatory responses and cell cycles in the endometrium. We identified LPS and IL-6 as suitable candidate markers for the diagnosis of CE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erina Yoneda
- Department of Life and Food Science, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro 080-8555, Hokkaido, Japan (S.K.); (K.T.); (H.W.); (M.T.)
| | - Sangwoo Kim
- Department of Life and Food Science, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro 080-8555, Hokkaido, Japan (S.K.); (K.T.); (H.W.); (M.T.)
| | - Kisaki Tomita
- Department of Life and Food Science, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro 080-8555, Hokkaido, Japan (S.K.); (K.T.); (H.W.); (M.T.)
| | - Takashi Minase
- Sapporo Clinical Laboratory Inc., Sapporo 060-0005, Hokkaido, Japan;
| | - Mitsunori Kayano
- Research Center for Global Agro-Medicine, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro 080-8555, Hokkaido, Japan;
| | - Hiroyuki Watanabe
- Department of Life and Food Science, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro 080-8555, Hokkaido, Japan (S.K.); (K.T.); (H.W.); (M.T.)
| | - Masafumi Tetsuka
- Department of Life and Food Science, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro 080-8555, Hokkaido, Japan (S.K.); (K.T.); (H.W.); (M.T.)
| | - Motoki Sasaki
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro 080-8555, Hokkaido, Japan;
| | - Hiroshi Iwayama
- Obihiro ART Clinic, Obihiro 080-0803, Hokkaido, Japan; (H.I.); (H.S.)
| | - Hideomi Sanai
- Obihiro ART Clinic, Obihiro 080-0803, Hokkaido, Japan; (H.I.); (H.S.)
| | - Yuki Muranishi
- Department of Life and Food Science, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro 080-8555, Hokkaido, Japan (S.K.); (K.T.); (H.W.); (M.T.)
- Laboratory for Molecular and Developmental Biology, Institute for Protein Research, Suita 565-0871, Osaka, Japan
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14
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Muraoka A, Yokoi A, Kajiyama H. Emerging bacterial factors for understanding pathogenesis of endometriosis. iScience 2024; 27:108739. [PMID: 38269103 PMCID: PMC10805679 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.108739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The pathogenesis of endometriosis is a complex process, and recent research has introduced novel hypotheses in this field. This review summarizes recent studies on the pathogenesis of endometriosis. We focused on several classical hypotheses, as well as their interactions with the microenvironment of hormonal dependence and immunosuppression. Furthermore, we highlighted the emergence of bacterial factors associated with endometriosis. Recent advances in next-generation sequencing (NGS) have revealed the presence and detailed distribution of these bacteria as well as the involvement of specific bacteria in pathogenesis. These factors alter the microenvironment in the early stages of endometriosis development, leading to lesion formation. Understanding the mechanisms underlying the early development of endometriosis from a new perspective would be helpful for the development of novel therapeutic agents for endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayako Muraoka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | - Akira Yokoi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
- Nagoya University Institute for Advanced Research, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya 464-8603, Japan
- Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST), FOREST, 4-1-8 Honcho, Kawaguchi, Saitama 332-0012, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Kajiyama
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
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15
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Ye H, Tian Y, Yu X, Li L, Hou M. Association Between Pelvic Inflammatory Disease and Risk of Endometriosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2024; 33:73-79. [PMID: 37851499 DOI: 10.1089/jwh.2023.0300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Endometriosis is a common chronic disorder, which leads to dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, pelvic chronic pain, and infertility. It affects ∼6% to 10% of the general female population. However, the etiology of endometriosis remained unclear. We aimed to systematically assess the association between pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and the risk of endometriosis. Materials and Methods: Eligible studies published until May 21, 2022, were retrieved from the PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases. The studies were included based on the following criteria: (1) original articles on the association between PID and risk of endometriosis; (2) randomized controlled trials and cross-sectional, case-control, and cohort studies; and (3) studies involving humans. The Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale was used to assess the quality of the studies included in this systematic review. The association between PID and risk of endometriosis was evaluated using the overall odds ratio (OR) and correlative 95% confidence interval (CI). Results: The meta-analysis included 14 studies with 747,733 patients. The mean prevalence of PID in women with endometriosis was 33.80%. Our quantitative synthesis revealed that endometritis was associated with a significantly increased risk of endometriosis (OR: 1.63, 95% CI: 1.53-1.74, I2 = 59%). Conclusion: We study a statistically significant association between PID and the risk of endometriosis. In particular, endometritis might play an important role in endometriosis, based on the lower heterogeneity of the subgroup analysis. This finding suggests that reducing the incidence of endometritis might aid in the prevention and treatment of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Ye
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China
| | - Yilan Tian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiuzhang Yu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lin Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Minmin Hou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China
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16
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Xholli A, Cremonini F, Perugi I, Londero AP, Cagnacci A. Gut Microbiota and Endometriosis: Exploring the Relationship and Therapeutic Implications. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1696. [PMID: 38139822 PMCID: PMC10747908 DOI: 10.3390/ph16121696] [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: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a common inflammatory disease affecting women of reproductive age, characterized by the growth of endometrial tissue beyond the uterus. In addition to gynecological manifestations, many endometriosis patients experience gastrointestinal symptoms, indicating a potential association between gut health and the disease. Recent studies have revealed alterations in the gut microbiota of individuals with endometriosis, including reduced diversity, microbial composition imbalances, and pathogenic bacteria. These changes can disrupt immune function, increase inflammation, and contribute to the chronic inflammatory state observed in endometriosis. Moreover, dysregulation of intestinal permeability may further exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms in affected individuals. Understanding the role of the gut microbiota and intestinal permeability in endometriosis can provide valuable insights into disease pathogenesis, aid in non-invasive diagnostic approaches, and open new avenues for therapeutic interventions. Probiotics, in particular, have shown promise in improving endometriosis-associated pain symptoms and reducing endometriotic lesions in animal models. This review suggests that additional research and well-designed clinical trials are necessary to validate the potential diagnostic and therapeutic benefits of manipulating the gut microbiota in managing endometriosis and its gastrointestinal symptoms, thereby improving the quality of life for those affected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anjeza Xholli
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy; (A.X.); (F.C.); (I.P.)
| | - Francesca Cremonini
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy; (A.X.); (F.C.); (I.P.)
| | - Isabella Perugi
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy; (A.X.); (F.C.); (I.P.)
| | - Ambrogio Pietro Londero
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Infant Health, University of Genoa, 16132 Genova, Italy;
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, 16147 Genova, Italy
| | - Angelo Cagnacci
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy; (A.X.); (F.C.); (I.P.)
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Infant Health, University of Genoa, 16132 Genova, Italy;
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17
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Farooqi T, Bhuyan DJ, Low M, Sinclair J, Leonardi M, Armour M. Cannabis and Endometriosis: The Roles of the Gut Microbiota and the Endocannabinoid System. J Clin Med 2023; 12:7071. [PMID: 38002684 PMCID: PMC10671947 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12227071] [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: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis, a chronic condition affecting around 10-14% of women, is challenging to manage, due to its complex pathogenesis and limited treatment options. Research has suggested a potential role of the gut microbiota and the endocannabinoid system in the development and progression of endometriosis. This narrative review aims to explore the role of, and any potential interactions between, the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and the gut microbiota in endometriosis. This review found that both the ECS and microbiota influence endometriosis, with the former regulating inflammation and pain perception and the latter influencing immune responses and hormonal balance. There is evidence that a dysregulation of the endocannabinoid system and the gut microbiota influence endometriosis symptoms and progression via changes in CB1 receptor expression and increased circulating levels of endocannabinoids. Microbial imbalances in the gut, such as increases in Prevotella, have been directly correlated to increased bloating, a common endometriosis symptom, while increases in E. coli have supported the bacterial contamination hypothesis as a potential pathway for endometriosis pathogenesis. These microbial imbalances have been correlated with increases in inflammatory markers such as TNF-α and IL-6, both often raised in those with endometriosis. Protective effects of the ECS on the gut were observed by increases in endocannabinoids, including 2-AG, resulting in decreased inflammation and improved gut permeability. Given these findings, both the ECS and the gut microbiota may be targets for therapeutic interventions for endometriosis; however, clinical studies are required to determine effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toobah Farooqi
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Sydney 2751, Australia; (T.F.); (D.J.B.); (M.L.); (J.S.)
| | - Deep Jyoti Bhuyan
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Sydney 2751, Australia; (T.F.); (D.J.B.); (M.L.); (J.S.)
- School of Science, Western Sydney University, Sydney 2751, Australia
| | - Mitchell Low
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Sydney 2751, Australia; (T.F.); (D.J.B.); (M.L.); (J.S.)
| | - Justin Sinclair
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Sydney 2751, Australia; (T.F.); (D.J.B.); (M.L.); (J.S.)
| | - Mathew Leonardi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8V 5C2, Canada;
- Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide 5006, Australia
| | - Mike Armour
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Sydney 2751, Australia; (T.F.); (D.J.B.); (M.L.); (J.S.)
- Translational Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Sydney 2751, Australia
- Medical Research Institute of New Zealand, P.O. Box 7902, Wellington 6242, New Zealand
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18
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Brouns F, Van Haaps A, Keszthelyi D, Venema K, Bongers M, Maas J, Mijatovic V. Diet associations in endometriosis: a critical narrative assessment with special reference to gluten. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1166929. [PMID: 37731404 PMCID: PMC10507348 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1166929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is characterized by the presence of endometrium-like tissue outside the uterus. The etiology remains largely unknown. Despite adequate treatment, patients can still experience symptoms or side effects resulting in therapy incompliance and in self-management strategies such as dietary measures is increasing. A gluten free diet is thought to be contributory in reducing endometriosis-related pain, thereby optimizing quality of life. However, data is conflicting and currently provides no evidence for causality. This narrative review aims to put the effect of dietary self-management strategies on endometriosis in a balanced perspective, especially the effect of gluten and a gluten free diet. Several studies have found a strong overlap in symptoms, metabolic and immune responses associated with endometriosis and those associated with celiac disease, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, irritable bowel syndrome and non-celiac wheat sensitivity. However, it remains unclear whether these diseases and/or disorders are causal to an increased risk of endometriosis. Some studies have found a positive effect on the risk of endometriosis, endometriosis-related symptoms and quality of life (QoL) when women either avoided certain nutrients or foods, or applied a specific nutrient supplementation. This includes the avoidance of red meat and omega-3, an increasing intake of foods rich in anti-oxidants, micronutrients and dietary fibers (e.g., fruit, vegetables) and the appliance of a gluten free diet. However, data from the available studies were generally graded of low quality and it was noted that placebo and/or nocebo effects influenced the reported positive effects. In addition, such effects were no longer seen when adjusting for confounders such as overweight, when a translation was made from in vitro to in vivo, or when the nutrients were not supplemented as isolated sources but as part of a mixed daily diet. Finally, some studies showed that long-term adherence to a gluten free diet is often associated with an impaired diet quality and nutrient intake, leading to negative health outcomes and reduced QoL. Concluding, scientific evidence on the efficacy of dietary interventions on well-defined clinical endpoints of endometriosis is lacking and recommending a gluten free diet to women solely diagnosed with endometriosis should therefore not be advised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fred Brouns
- Department of Human Biology, School for Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Annelotte Van Haaps
- Endometriosis Center, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Daniel Keszthelyi
- Division of Gastroenterology-Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, School for Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Koen Venema
- Centre for Healthy Eating & Food Innovation (HEFI), Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Marlies Bongers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Máxima Medical Center, Veldhoven, Netherlands
- Grow-School of Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Jacques Maas
- Grow-School of Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology MUMC+, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Velja Mijatovic
- Endometriosis Center, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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19
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Son D, Park H, An G, Park S, Hwang DW, Park SJ, Kim HS, Lim W, You S, Song G. Establishment of Immortalized Human Endometriotic Stromal Cell Line from Ectopic Lesion of a Patient with Endometriosis. Reprod Sci 2023; 30:2703-2714. [PMID: 37067725 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01225-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent inflammatory disease characterized by the growth of endometrial-like tissues containing endometrial stromal cells and glandular epithelium outside the uterine cavity. An insufficient response to progesterone contributes to disease progression and systemic inflammation during the pathogenesis of endometriosis. Patients with endometriosis usually experience painful symptoms, dysmenorrhea, and infertility, which contribute to a significant reduction in their quality of life. To determine the possible molecular mechanisms of endometriosis and explore novel therapeutic targets, we derived primary human ovarian endometriotic stromal cells (hOESCs) from a patient of reproductive age with ovarian endometriosis. In this study, we successfully established immortalized human ovarian endometriotic stromal cell lines (ihOESCs) using primary stromal cells obtained from endometriotic lesions to overcome short lifespan and growth inhibition. Immortalization of hOESCs with human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) transfection led to cells that maintained a proliferative state under passage culture conditions without mutagenesis during cellular senescence. The morphology and karyotype of ihOESCs were unchanged compared with those of hOESCs. Moreover, ihOESCs were continuously positive for vimentin and negative for E-cadherin expression. Following decidual stimuli and inflammatory responses, both hOESCs and ihOESCs sensitively express decidualization markers and proinflammatory cytokines. Collectively, we characterized ihOESCs to maintain their phenotypic and functional properties with a longer lifespan and normal physiological responses than those of hOESCs. These immortalized cells could aid in a detailed understanding of the pathological mechanisms of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daryeon Son
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology and Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Hahyun Park
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology and Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Garam An
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology and Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Sunwoo Park
- Department of Plant & Biomaterials Science, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju-si, Gyeongnam, 52725, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Won Hwang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Soo Jin Park
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee Seung Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Whasun Lim
- Department of Biological Sciences, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea.
| | - Seungkwon You
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology and Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea.
| | - Gwonhwa Song
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology and Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea.
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20
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Kaluanga Bwanga P, Tremblay-Lemoine PL, Timmermans M, Ravet S, Munaut C, Nisolle M, Henry L. The Endometrial Microbiota: Challenges and Prospects. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:1540. [PMID: 37763663 PMCID: PMC10534531 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59091540] [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: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Contrary to popular belief, we have known for many years that the endometrium is not a sterile environment and is considered to be a low-biomass milieu compared to the vagina. Numerous trials and studies have attempted to establish a valid sampling method and assess its physiological composition, but no consensus has been reached. Many factors, such as ethnicity, age and inflammation, can influence the microbiome. Moreover, it possesses a higher alpha-diversity and, therefore, contains more diverse bacteria than the vagina. For instance, Lactobacillus has been shown to be a predominant genus in the vaginal microbiome of healthy women. Consequently, even if a majority of scientists postulate that a predominance of Lactobacillus inside the uterus improves reproductive outcomes, vaginal contamination by these bacteria during sampling cannot be ruled out. Certain pathologies, such as chronic endometritis, have been identified as inflammation perpetrators that hinder the embryo implantation process. This pro-inflammatory climate created by dysbiosis of the endometrial microbiota could induce secondary inflammatory mediators via Toll-like receptors, creating an environment conducive to the development of endometriosis and even promoting carcinogenesis. However, studies to this day have focused on small populations. In addition, there is no clearly defined healthy uterine composition yet. At most, only a few taxa have been identified as pathogenic. As sampling and analysis methods become increasingly precise, we can expect the endometrial microbiota to be incorporated into future diagnostic tools and treatments for women's health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pierre-Luc Tremblay-Lemoine
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHU of Liege-Citadelle Site, University of Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Marie Timmermans
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHU of Liege-Citadelle Site, University of Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Stéphanie Ravet
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, University of Liège-Citadelle Site, 4000 Liege, Belgium
| | - Carine Munaut
- Laboratory of Tumor and Development Biology, Giga-Cancer, University of Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Michelle Nisolle
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHU of Liege-Citadelle Site, University of Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Laurie Henry
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHU of Liege-Citadelle Site, University of Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, University of Liège-Citadelle Site, 4000 Liege, Belgium
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21
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Salmeri N, Sinagra E, Dolci C, Buzzaccarini G, Sozzi G, Sutera M, Candiani M, Ungaro F, Massimino L, Danese S, Mandarino FV. Microbiota in Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Endometriosis: Birds of a Feather Flock Together-A Review. Microorganisms 2023; 11:2089. [PMID: 37630649 PMCID: PMC10458414 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11082089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are chronic conditions affecting up to 10% of the global population, imposing significant burdens on healthcare systems and patient quality of life. Interestingly, around 20% of endometriosis patients also present with symptoms indicative of IBS. The pathogenesis of both these multifactorial conditions remains to be fully elucidated, but connections to gut microbiota are becoming more apparent. Emerging research underscores significant differences in the gut microbiota composition between healthy individuals and those suffering from either endometriosis or IBS. Intestinal dysbiosis appears pivotal in both conditions, exerting an influence via similar mechanisms. It impacts intestinal permeability, triggers inflammatory reactions, and initiates immune responses. Furthermore, it is entwined in a bidirectional relationship with the brain, as part of the gut-brain axis, whereby dysbiosis influences and is influenced by mental health and pain perception. Recent years have witnessed the development of microbiota-focused therapies, such as low FODMAP diets, prebiotics, probiotics, antibiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation, designed to tackle dysbiosis and relieve symptoms. While promising, these treatments present inconsistent data, highlighting the need for further research. This review explores the evidence of gut dysbiosis in IBS and endometriosis, underscoring the similar role of microbiota in both conditions. A deeper understanding of this common mechanism may enable enhanced diagnostics and therapeutic advancements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noemi Salmeri
- Gynecology/Obstetrics Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy; (C.D.); (G.B.); (M.C.)
| | - Emanuele Sinagra
- Gastroenterology & Endoscopy Unit, Fondazione Istituto G. Giglio, Contrada Pietra Pollastra Pisciotto, 90015 Cefalù, Italy;
| | - Carolina Dolci
- Gynecology/Obstetrics Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy; (C.D.); (G.B.); (M.C.)
| | - Giovanni Buzzaccarini
- Gynecology/Obstetrics Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy; (C.D.); (G.B.); (M.C.)
| | - Giulio Sozzi
- Gynecology/Obstetrics Unit, Fondazione Istituto G. Giglio, Contrada Pietra Pollastra Pisciotto, 90015 Cefalù, Italy; (G.S.); (M.S.)
| | - Miriam Sutera
- Gynecology/Obstetrics Unit, Fondazione Istituto G. Giglio, Contrada Pietra Pollastra Pisciotto, 90015 Cefalù, Italy; (G.S.); (M.S.)
| | - Massimo Candiani
- Gynecology/Obstetrics Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy; (C.D.); (G.B.); (M.C.)
| | - Federica Ungaro
- Department of Gastroenterology and Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy; (F.U.); (L.M.); (S.D.); (F.V.M.)
| | - Luca Massimino
- Department of Gastroenterology and Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy; (F.U.); (L.M.); (S.D.); (F.V.M.)
| | - Silvio Danese
- Department of Gastroenterology and Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy; (F.U.); (L.M.); (S.D.); (F.V.M.)
| | - Francesco Vito Mandarino
- Department of Gastroenterology and Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy; (F.U.); (L.M.); (S.D.); (F.V.M.)
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22
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Kobayashi H. Gut and reproductive tract microbiota: Insights into the pathogenesis of endometriosis (Review). Biomed Rep 2023; 19:43. [PMID: 37324168 PMCID: PMC10265574 DOI: 10.3892/br.2023.1626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is characterized by the presence of endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus and is associated with an inflammatory immune response. The gut and reproductive tract microbiota constitute a protective barrier against infection by pathogens and regulate inflammatory and immune functions. This review summarizes microbiota imbalance (i.e., dysbiosis) in endometriosis and discusses how dysbiosis influences disease development. The literature was searched for studies published from inception to March 2022 in the PubMed and Google Scholar databases using a combination of specific terms. An altered gut and reproductive tract microbiome has been reported in numerous conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease, allergies, autoimmunity, cancer and reproductive disorders (e.g., endometriosis). Furthermore, microbial dysbiosis is a hallmark of endometriosis and is characterized by a decrease in beneficial probiotics and an increase in pathogenic microbes, which leads to a series of estrobolomic and metabolomic changes. Gut or reproductive tract microbiome dysbiosis was reported in mice, nonhuman primates, and females with endometriosis. Animal models of endometriosis demonstrated the effects of the gut microbiome on lesion growth and vice versa. The immune system mediated by the microbiota-gut-reproductive tract axis triggers an inflammatory response that damages reproductive tract tissue, which possibly leads to endometriosis. However, whether the alteration of eubiosis (a balanced microbiota) to dysbiosis is a cause or a result of endometriosis is unclear. In conclusion, this review provides an overview of the relationship between the gut and reproductive tract microbiome and endometriosis, focusing on the mechanisms by which dysbiosis may increase the risk of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Kobayashi
- Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Ms. Clinic MayOne, Shijo-cho, Kashihara, Nara 634-0813, Japan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nara Medical University, Shijo-cho, Kashihara, Nara 634-8522, Japan
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23
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Sobstyl A, Chałupnik A, Mertowska P, Grywalska E. How Do Microorganisms Influence the Development of Endometriosis? Participation of Genital, Intestinal and Oral Microbiota in Metabolic Regulation and Immunopathogenesis of Endometriosis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10920. [PMID: 37446108 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241310920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Microorganisms inhabiting the human body play an extremely key role in its proper functioning, as well as in the development of the immune system, which, by maintaining the immune balance, allows you to enjoy health. Dysbiosis of the intestinal microbiota, or in the oral cavity or reproductive tract, understood as a change in the number and diversity of all microorganisms inhabiting them, may correlate with the development of many diseases, including endometriosis, as researchers have emphasized. Endometriosis is an inflammatory, estrogen-dependent gynecological condition defined by the growth of endometrial cells outside the uterine cavity. Deregulation of immune homeostasis resulting from microbiological disorders may generate chronic inflammation, thus creating an environment conducive to the increased adhesion and angiogenesis involved in the development of endometriosis. In addition, research in recent years has implicated bacterial contamination and immune activation, reduced gastrointestinal function by cytokines, altered estrogen metabolism and signaling, and abnormal progenitor and stem cell homeostasis, in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. The aim of this review was to present the influence of intestinal, oral and genital microbiota dysbiosis in the metabolic regulation and immunopathogenesis of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Sobstyl
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Medical University of Lublin, Chodzki Street, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Chałupnik
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Medical University of Lublin, Chodzki Street, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Paulina Mertowska
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Medical University of Lublin, Chodzki Street, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Ewelina Grywalska
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Medical University of Lublin, Chodzki Street, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
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24
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Cocomazzi G, De Stefani S, Del Pup L, Palini S, Buccheri M, Primiterra M, Sciannamè N, Faioli R, Maglione A, Baldini GM, Baldini D, Pazienza V. The Impact of the Female Genital Microbiota on the Outcome of Assisted Reproduction Treatments. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1443. [PMID: 37374945 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11061443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The vaginal microbiota plays a critical role in the health of the female genital tract, and its composition contributes to gynecological disorders and infertility. Lactobacilli are the dominant species in the female genital tract: their production of lactic acid, hydrogen peroxide, and bacteriocins prevents the invasion and growth of pathogenic microorganisms. Several factors such as hormonal changes, age of reproduction, sexual practices, menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and antimicrobial drugs use can cause imbalance and dysbiosis of the vaginal microbiota. This review aims to highlight the impact of the vaginal microbiota in Assisted Reproductive Technology techniques (ART) and it examines the factors that influence the vaginal microbiota, the consequences of dysbiosis, and potential interventions to restore a healthy female genital tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Cocomazzi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Fondazione IRCCS-Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | | | - Lino Del Pup
- Gynecological Endocrinology and Fertility, University Sanitary Agency Friuli Central (ASUFC), Via Pozzuolo, 330, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Simone Palini
- Ospedale "Cervesi" di Cattolica-AUSL Romagna Via Ludwig Van Beethoven, 1, 47841 Cattolica, Italy
| | - Matteo Buccheri
- Instituto Bernabeu Via Castellana, 88, 30030 Martellago, Italy
| | | | - Natale Sciannamè
- Gynecology and Obstetrics, IRCCS "Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza", 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Raffaele Faioli
- Gynecology and Obstetrics, IRCCS "Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza", 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Annamaria Maglione
- Gynecology and Obstetrics, IRCCS "Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza", 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Giorgio Maria Baldini
- IVF Center, Momò Fertilife, 76011 Bisceglie Via Cala dell'Arciprete, 76011 Bisceglie, Italy
| | - Domenico Baldini
- IVF Center, Momò Fertilife, 76011 Bisceglie Via Cala dell'Arciprete, 76011 Bisceglie, Italy
| | - Valerio Pazienza
- Division of Gastroenterology, Fondazione IRCCS-Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
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25
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Pollack B, von Saltza E, McCorkell L, Santos L, Hultman A, Cohen AK, Soares L. Female reproductive health impacts of Long COVID and associated illnesses including ME/CFS, POTS, and connective tissue disorders: a literature review. FRONTIERS IN REHABILITATION SCIENCES 2023; 4:1122673. [PMID: 37234076 PMCID: PMC10208411 DOI: 10.3389/fresc.2023.1122673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Long COVID disproportionately affects premenopausal women, but relatively few studies have examined Long COVID's impact on female reproductive health. We conduct a review of the literature documenting the female reproductive health impacts of Long COVID which may include disruptions to the menstrual cycle, gonadal function, ovarian sufficiency, menopause, and fertility, as well as symptom exacerbation around menstruation. Given limited research, we also review the reproductive health impacts of overlapping and associated illnesses including myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), connective tissue disorders like Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), and endometriosis, as these illnesses may help to elucidate reproductive health conditions in Long COVID. These associated illnesses, whose patients are 70%-80% women, have increased rates of dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, oligomenorrhea, dyspareunia, endometriosis, infertility, vulvodynia, intermenstrual bleeding, ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids and bleeding, pelvic congestion syndrome, gynecological surgeries, and adverse pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia, maternal mortality, and premature birth. Additionally, in Long COVID and associated illnesses, symptoms can be impacted by the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause. We propose priorities for future research and reproductive healthcare in Long COVID based on a review of the literature. These include screening Long COVID patients for comorbid and associated conditions; studying the impacts of the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause on symptoms and illness progression; uncovering the role of sex differences and sex hormones in Long COVID and associated illnesses; and addressing historical research and healthcare inequities that have contributed to detrimental knowledge gaps for this patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beth Pollack
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | | | - Lisa McCorkell
- Patient-Led Research Collaborative, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Lucia Santos
- Patient-Led Research Collaborative, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Ashley Hultman
- Patient-Led Research Collaborative, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Alison K. Cohen
- Patient-Led Research Collaborative, Washington, DC, United States
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Letícia Soares
- Patient-Led Research Collaborative, Washington, DC, United States
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26
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Magata F, Tsukamura H, Matsuda F. The impact of inflammatory stress on hypothalamic kisspeptin neurons: Mechanisms underlying inflammation-associated infertility in humans and domestic animals. Peptides 2023; 162:170958. [PMID: 36682622 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2023.170958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Inflammatory diseases attenuate reproductive functions in humans and domestic animals. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), an endotoxin released by bacteria, is known to disrupt female reproductive functions in various inflammatory diseases. LPS administration has been used to elucidate the impact of pathophysiological activation of the immune system on reproduction. Hypothalamic kisspeptin neurons are the master regulators of mammalian reproduction, mediating direct stimulation of hypothalamic gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) release and consequent release of gonadotropins, such as luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone from the pituitary. The discovery of kisspeptin neurons in the mammalian hypothalamus has drastically advanced our understanding of how inflammatory stress causes reproductive dysfunction in both humans and domestic animals. Inflammation-induced ovarian dysfunction could be caused, at least partly, by aberrant GnRH and LH secretion, which is regulated by kisspeptin signaling. In this review, we focus on the effects of LPS on hypothalamic kisspeptin neurons to outline the impact of inflammatory stress on neuroendocrine regulation of mammalian reproductive systems. First, we summarize the attenuation of female reproduction by LPS during inflammation and the effects of LPS on ovarian and pituitary function. Second, we outline the inhibitory effects of LPS on pulsatile- and surge-mode GnRH/LH release. Third, we discuss the LPS-responsive hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and hypothalamic neural systems in terms of the cytokine-mediated pathway and the possible direct action of LPS via its hypothalamic receptors. This article describes the impact of LPS on hypothalamic kisspeptin neurons and the possible mechanisms underlying LPS-mediated disruption of LH pulses/surge via kisspeptin neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fumie Magata
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, the University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan.
| | - Hiroko Tsukamura
- Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8601, Japan.
| | - Fuko Matsuda
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, the University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan.
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27
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Cousins FL, McKinnon BD, Mortlock S, Fitzgerald HC, Zhang C, Montgomery GW, Gargett CE. New concepts on the etiology of endometriosis. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2023; 49:1090-1105. [PMID: 36746607 PMCID: PMC10946875 DOI: 10.1111/jog.15549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a serious, chronic disorder where endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus, causing severe pelvic pain and infertility. It affects 11% of women. Endometriosis is a multifactorial disorder of unclear etiology, although retrograde menstruation plays a major role. It has a genetic component with over 40 genetic risk factors mapped, although their mechanism of action is still emerging. New evidence suggests a role for retrograde menstruation of endometrial stem/progenitor cells, now that identifying markers of these cells are available. Recent lineage tracing and tissue clearing microscopy and 3D reconstruction has provided new understanding of endometrial glandular structure, particularly the horizontal orientation and interconnection of basalis glands. New sequencing technologies, particularly whole genome DNA sequencing are revealing somatic mutations, including in cancer driver genes, in normal and eutopic endometrium of patients with endometriosis, as well as ectopic endometriotic lesions. Methylome sequencing is offering insight into the regulation of genes and the role of the environmental factors. Single cell RNA sequencing reveals the transcriptome of individual endometrial cells, shedding new light on the diversity and range of cellular subpopulations of the major cell types present in the endometrium and in endometriotic lesions. New endometrial epithelial organoid cultures replicating glandular epithelium are providing tractable models for studying endometriosis. Organoids derived from menstrual fluid offer a non-invasive source of endometrial tissue and a new avenue for testing drugs and developing personalized medicine for treating endometriosis. These new approaches are rapidly advancing our understanding of endometriosis etiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona L. Cousins
- The Ritchie CentreHudson Institute of Medical ResearchClaytonVictoriaAustralia
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyMonash UniversityClaytonVictoriaAustralia
| | - Brett D. McKinnon
- Institute for Molecular Biosciences, The University of QueenslandBrisbaneAustralia
| | - Sally Mortlock
- Institute for Molecular Biosciences, The University of QueenslandBrisbaneAustralia
| | - Harriet C. Fitzgerald
- The Ritchie CentreHudson Institute of Medical ResearchClaytonVictoriaAustralia
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyMonash UniversityClaytonVictoriaAustralia
| | - Chenyu Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyMonash UniversityClaytonVictoriaAustralia
| | - Grant W. Montgomery
- Institute for Molecular Biosciences, The University of QueenslandBrisbaneAustralia
| | - Caroline E. Gargett
- The Ritchie CentreHudson Institute of Medical ResearchClaytonVictoriaAustralia
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyMonash UniversityClaytonVictoriaAustralia
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28
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Han AR, Lee S, Cha J, Kim JY, Kim DK, Han JW, Kim CJ, Lee SK. Genital tract infection and pelvic surgery contribute to the development of endometriosis. J Reprod Immunol 2023; 156:103831. [PMID: 36841045 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2023.103831] [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: 08/27/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/14/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a multifactorial disease, and inflammation is considered a core pathology. Inflammation related to genital tract infection (GTI) and surgical injury may cause endometriosis. Therefore, we investigated the incidence of endometriosis in women with a recent history of GTI, pelvic surgery, or both. Using the Korean National Health Insurance Service-National Sample Cohort, 20- to 49-year-old women diagnosed with GTI or who underwent pelvic surgeries between 2002 and 2008 were collected and followed up for five years. After excluding women who had already been diagnosed with endometriosis or diseases that may affect endometriosis, a total of 30,336 women were diagnosed with GTI (Study 1), 2894 women who underwent pelvic surgery (Study 2), and 788 women who underwent GTI and pelvic surgery, both (Study 3) were enrolled for each study. The comparison groups in which sociodemographic factors matched for each group were collected. The incidence of endometriosis per 1000 person-year was 5.37, 5.17, and 20.81 in each case group and was significantly higher than each comparison group. A recent history of GTI increased an adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) of 2.29 (1.99-2.63, 95% confidence interval) for the development of endometriosis. The aHRs of pelvic surgery history and the history of both GTI and pelvic surgery were 2.10 and 7.82, respectively. In conclusion, the pelvic inflammation resulting from genital infection and pelvic surgical injury may play a role in developing endometriosis. Active treatment of genital infections and careful surgical procedures to minimize tissue injury may reduce the incidence of pelvic endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ae Ra Han
- CHA Fertility Center Daegu, CHA University School of Medicine, 41936, Republic of Korea
| | - Suehyun Lee
- Healthcare Data Science Center, Konyang University Hospital, Daejeon 35365, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaehun Cha
- Healthcare Data Science Center, Konyang University Hospital, Daejeon 35365, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong-Yeup Kim
- Healthcare Data Science Center, Konyang University Hospital, Daejeon 35365, Republic of Korea; Department of Otorhinolaryngology, College of Medicine, Konyang University, Daejeon 35365, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong-Kyu Kim
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Chuncheon Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University College of Medicine, Chuncheon 24253, Republic of Korea; Institute of New Frontier Research, Division of Big Data and Artificial Intelligence, Chuncheon Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University College of Medicine, Chuncheon 24253, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jae Won Han
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, Konyang University, Daejeon 35365, Republic of Korea; Myunggok Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine, Konyang University, Daejeon 15 35365, Republic of Korea
| | - Chul Jung Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, Konyang University, Daejeon 35365, Republic of Korea; Myunggok Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine, Konyang University, Daejeon 15 35365, Republic of Korea.
| | - Sung Ki Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, Konyang University, Daejeon 35365, Republic of Korea; Myunggok Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine, Konyang University, Daejeon 15 35365, Republic of Korea.
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29
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Kobayashi H. Similarities in Pathogenetic Mechanisms Underlying the Bidirectional Relationship between Endometriosis and Pelvic Inflammatory Disease. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13050868. [PMID: 36900012 PMCID: PMC10000848 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13050868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometriosis is a common inflammatory disease characterized by the presence of endometrial cells outside of the uterine cavity. Endometriosis affects 10% of women of reproductive age and significantly reduces their quality of life as a result of chronic pelvic pain and infertility. Biologic mechanisms, including persistent inflammation, immune dysfunction, and epigenetic modifications, have been proposed as the pathogenesis of endometriosis. In addition, endometriosis can potentially be associated with an increased risk of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Changes in the vaginal microbiota associated with bacterial vaginosis (BV) result in PID or a severe form of abscess formation, tubo-ovarian abscess (TOA). This review aims to summarize the pathophysiology of endometriosis and PID and to discuss whether endometriosis may predispose to PID and vice versa. METHODS Papers published between 2000 and 2022 in the PubMed and Google Scholar databases were included. RESULTS Available evidence supports that women with endometriosis are at increased risk of comorbid PID and vice versa, supporting that endometriosis and PID are likely to coexist. There is a bidirectional relationship between endometriosis and PID that shares a similar pathophysiology, which includes the distorted anatomy favorable to bacteria proliferation, hemorrhage from endometriotic lesions, alterations to the reproductive tract microbiome, and impaired immune response modulated by aberrant epigenetic processes. However, whether endometriosis predisposes to PID or vice versa has not been identified. CONCLUSIONS This review summarizes our current understanding of the pathogenesis of endometriosis and PID and discusses the similarities between them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Kobayashi
- Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Ms.Clinic MayOne, Kashihara 634-0813, Japan;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nara Medical University, Kashihara 634-8522, Japan
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Current Updates on the Role of Microbiome in Endometriosis: A Narrative Review. Microorganisms 2023; 11:microorganisms11020360. [PMID: 36838325 PMCID: PMC9962481 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11020360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis affects approximately 6 to 10% of reproductive-age women globally. Despite much effort invested, the pathogenesis that promotes the development, as well as the progression of this chronic inflammatory disease, is poorly understood. The imbalance in the microbiome or dysbiosis has been implicated in a variety of human diseases, especially the gut microbiome. In the case of endometriosis, emerging evidence suggests that there may be urogenital-gastrointestinal crosstalk that leads to the development of endometriosis. Researchers may now exploit important information from microbiome studies to design endometriosis treatment strategies and disease biomarkers with the use of advanced molecular technologies and increased computational capacity. Future studies into the functional profile of the microbiome would greatly assist in the development of microbiome-based therapies to alleviate endometriosis symptoms and improve the quality of life of women suffering from endometriosis.
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Guo B, Chen JH, Zhang JH, Fang Y, Liu XJ, Zhang J, Zhu HQ, Zhan L. Pattern-recognition receptors in endometriosis: A narrative review. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1161606. [PMID: 37033937 PMCID: PMC10076794 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1161606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is closely associated with ectopic focal inflammation and immunosuppressive microenvironment. Multiple types of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) are present in the innate immune system, which are able to detect pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and danger-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) in both intracellular and external environments. However, the exact role of PRRs in endometriosis and the underlying molecular mechanism are unclear. PRRs are necessary for the innate immune system to identify and destroy invasive foreign infectious agents. Mammals mainly have two types of microbial recognition systems. The first one consists of the membrane-bound receptors, such as toll-like receptors (TLRs), which recognize extracellular microorganisms and activate intracellular signals to stimulate immune responses. The second one consists of the intracellular PRRs, including nod-like receptors (NLRs) and antiviral proteins retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I) and melanoma differentiation-associated gene 5 (MDA-5) with helix enzyme domain. In this review, we mainly focus on the key role of PRRs in the pathological processes associated with endometriosis. PRRs recognize PAMPs and can distinguish pathogenic microorganisms from self, triggering receptor ligand reaction followed by the stimulation of host immune response. Activated immune response promotes the transmission of microbial infection signals to the cells. As endometriosis is characterized by dysregulated inflammation and immune response, PRRs may potentially be involved in the activation of endometriosis-associated inflammation and immune disorders. Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2), toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3), toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), nod-like receptor family caspase activation and recruitment domain (CARD) domain containing 5 (NLRC5), nod-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3), and c-type lectin receptors (CLRs) play essential roles in endometriosis development by regulating immune and inflammatory responses. Absent in melanoma 2 (AIM2)-like receptors (ALRs) and retinoic acid-inducible gene I-like receptors (RLRs) may be involved in the activation of endometriosis-associated immune and inflammation disorders. PRRs, especially TLRs, may serve as potential therapeutic targets for alleviating pain in endometriosis patients. PRRs and their ligands interact with the innate immune system to enhance inflammation in the stromal cells during endometriosis. Thus, targeting PRRs and their new synthetic ligands may provide new therapeutic options for treating endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bao Guo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Jia hua Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Jun hui Zhang
- First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yuan Fang
- First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Xiao jing Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Hai qing Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Lei Zhan
- Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- *Correspondence: Lei Zhan,
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Zizolfi B, Foreste V, Gallo A, Martone S, Giampaolino P, Di Spiezio Sardo A. Endometriosis and dysbiosis: State of art. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1140774. [PMID: 36891056 PMCID: PMC9986482 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1140774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a complex and heterogeneous disease affecting approximately 10% of reproductive age women. The hypothesis that alterations in the microbiota are involved in the pathogenesis of endometriosis has been postulated. Possible explanations for the implications of dysbiosis in endometriosis include the Bacterial Contamination hypothesis and immune activation, cytokine-impaired gut function, altered estrogen metabolism and signaling. Thus, dysbiosis, disrupt normal immune function, leading to the elevation of proinflammatory cytokines, compromised immunosurveillance and altered immune cell profiles, all of which may contribute to the pathogenesis of endometriosis. The aim of this review is to summarize the available literature data about the relationship between microbiota and endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brunella Zizolfi
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- *Correspondence: Brunella Zizolfi,
| | - Virginia Foreste
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Alessandra Gallo
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Simona Martone
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
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Uzuner C, Mak J, El-Assaad F, Condous G. The bidirectional relationship between endometriosis and microbiome. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1110824. [PMID: 36960395 PMCID: PMC10028178 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1110824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis has been described by many different theories of pathogenesis over the years. It is now also appreciated to be a state of chronic inflammation, and the role of immune dysfunction in its development has been proven. There is increasing evidence to support the role of the microbiome in the formation and progression of endometriosis via inflammatory pathways. The dysbiosis seen in endometriosis is thought to be both causative and a consequence of the pathogenesis. Gut, peritoneal fluid and female reproductive tract microbiota has been studied to understand if there are any microbiome signatures specific to endometriosis. New research on how to manipulate the microbiome for better detection and treatment of endometriosis is emerging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cansu Uzuner
- Endometriosis Ultrasound and Advanced Endosurgery Unit, Sydney Medical School Nepean, University of Sydney, Nepean Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- *Correspondence: Cansu Uzuner,
| | - Jason Mak
- Endometriosis Ultrasound and Advanced Endosurgery Unit, Sydney Medical School Nepean, University of Sydney, Nepean Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Fatima El-Assaad
- University of New South Wales Microbiome Research Centre, St. George and Sutherland Clinical Campuses, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - George Condous
- Endometriosis Ultrasound and Advanced Endosurgery Unit, Sydney Medical School Nepean, University of Sydney, Nepean Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Irandoost E, Najibi S, Talebbeigi S, Nassiri S. Focus on the role of NLRP3 inflammasome in the pathology of endometriosis: a review on molecular mechanisms and possible medical applications. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2022; 396:621-631. [PMID: 36542122 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-022-02365-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis (EMS) is a gynecological disease that leads to pathological conditions, which are connected to the initiation of pro-inflammatory cytokine production. Inflammation plays a vital role in the pathogenesis of EMS. The activation and formation of cytoplasmic inflammasome complexes is considered an important step of inflammation and a key regulator of pyroptosis, a form of cell death. NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome complex modulates innate immune activity and inflammation. The NLRP3 inflammasome activates cysteine protease caspase-1, which produces active pro-inflammatory interleukins (ILs), including IL-1β and IL-18. The aim of this review article was to discuss the involvement of NLRP3 inflammasome assembly and its activation in the pathophysiology of EMS and target related pathways in designing appropriate therapeutic approaches. Dysregulation of sex hormone signaling pathways was associated with over-activation of the NLPR3 inflammasome. In this study, we demonstrated the involvement of NLRP3 inflammasome signaling pathways in the pathophysiology of EMS. The manuscript also discusses the beneficial effects of targeted therapy through synthetic inhibitors of NLRP3 signaling pathways to control EMS lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elnaz Irandoost
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shaparak Najibi
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saba Talebbeigi
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saina Nassiri
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Wang K, Gao S, Wang J, Yu F, Ye C. Protective effects of chicoric acid on LPS-induced endometritis in mice via inhibiting ferroptosis by Nrf2/HO-1 signal axis. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 113:109435. [PMID: 36403522 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.109435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Chicoric acid (CA), a natural phenolic acid extracted from Mediterranean vegetable chicory, has anti-oxidative effect. We aimed to investigate the effects of CA on endometritis and clarify the underlying mechanism. C57BL/6 mice were divided into five groups: control group, LPS group, and LPS + CA groups. All mice except control group were infused of LPS into the uterus. The mice of LPS + CA groups were intraperitoneally injected CA 1 h before LPS challenge. CA significantly alleviatedLPS-induced pathological damage, MPO activity, and inflammatory cytokine production. CA significantly suppressed ferroptosis in LPS-induced endometritis. CA also attenuated LPS-induced NF-κB activation. Furthermore, Nrf2 and HO-1 expression were increased by CA. Moreover, the inhibition of CA on LPS-induced endometritis and ferroptosis were markedly prevented in Nrf2 knockdown mice. In conclusion, the results suggested CA protected mice against LPS-induced endometritisthrough inhibiting ferroptosis via Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kexin Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Erdao District, 126 Sendai Street, Changchun, Jilin Province 130033, China
| | - Shouyang Gao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130033, China
| | - Junrong Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130033, China
| | - Fan Yu
- Department of Gartroenterology and Hepatology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Erdao District, 126 Sendai Street, Changchun, Jilin Province 130033, China.
| | - Cong Ye
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130033, China.
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Magata F, Toda L, Sato M, Sakono T, Chambers JK, Uchida K, Tsukamura H, Matsuda F. Intrauterine LPS inhibited arcuate Kiss1 expression, LH pulses, and ovarian function in rats. Reproduction 2022; 164:207-219. [PMID: 36099331 DOI: 10.1530/rep-22-0047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
In brief Uterine inflammatory diseases are a major cause of infertility in humans and domestic animals. The current findings that intrauterine lipopolysaccharide is absorbed in systemic circulation and attenuates ovarian cyclic activities could provide a basis for developing novel treatments to improve fertility. Abstract Uterine inflammatory diseases are a major cause of infertility in humans and domestic animals. Circulating lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a bacterial endotoxin causing uterine inflammation, reportedly downregulates the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis to mediate ovarian dysfunction. In contrast, the mechanism whereby intrauterine LPS affects ovarian function has not been fully clarified. This study aimed to elucidate whether uterine exposure to LPS downregulates hypothalamic kisspeptin gene (Kiss1) expression, gonadotropin release, and ovarian function. Uterine inflammation was induced by intrauterine LPS administration to ovary-intact and ovariectomized female rats. As a result, plasma LPS concentrations were substantially higher in control rats until 48 h post injection, and the estrous cyclicity was disrupted with a prolonged diestrous phase. Three days post injection, the number of Graafian follicles and plasma estradiol concentration were reduced in LPS-treated rats, while numbers of Kiss1-expressing cells in the anteroventral periventricular nucleus and arcuate nucleus (ARC) were comparable in ovary-intact rats. Four days post injection, ovulation rate and plasma progesterone levels reduced significantly while gene expression of interleukin1β and tumor necrosis factor α was upregulated in the ovaries of LPS-treated rats that failed to ovulate. Furthermore, the number of Kiss1-expressing cells in the ARC and pulsatile luteinizing hormone (LH) release were significantly reduced in ovariectomized rats 24 h post injection. In conclusion, these results indicate that intrauterine LPS is absorbed in systemic circulation and attenuates ovarian function. This detrimental effect might be caused, at least partly, by the inhibition of ARC Kiss1 expression and LH pulses along with an induction of ovarian inflammatory response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fumie Magata
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Lisa Toda
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Marimo Sato
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takahiro Sakono
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - James K Chambers
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuyuki Uchida
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroko Tsukamura
- Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Fuko Matsuda
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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Iwasaki S, Kaneda K. Genes Relating to Biological Processes of Endometriosis: Expression Changes Common to a Mouse Model and Patients. Drug Res (Stuttg) 2022; 72:523-533. [PMID: 36055285 DOI: 10.1055/a-1894-6817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis is one of the most common gynecological diseases in women of reproductive age. Retrograde menstruation is considered a major reason for the development of endometriosis. The syngeneic transplantation mouse model is an endometriosis animal model that is considered to mimic retrograde menstruation. However, it remains poorly understood which genetic signatures of endometriosis are reflected in this model. Here, we employed an in vivo syngeneic mouse endometriosis model and identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the ectopic and eutopic tissues using microarray analysis. Three gene expression profile datasets, GSE5108, GSE7305, and GSE11691, were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database and DEGs between ectopic and eutopic tissues from the same patients were identified. Gene ontology analysis of the DEGs revealed that biological processes including cell adhesion, the inflammatory response, the response to mechanical stimulus, cell proliferation, and extracellular matrix organization were enriched in both the model and patients. Of the 195 DEGs common to the model and patients, 154 showed the same expression pattern, and 28 of these 154 DEGs came up when PubMed was searched for each gene along with the terms "endometriosis" and "development". This is the first comparison of the DEGs of the mouse syngeneic endometriosis model and those of patients, and we identified the biological processes common to the model and patients at the transcriptional level. This model may be useful to evaluate the efficacy of drugs which target these biological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiho Iwasaki
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan.,Discovery Research Laboratories, Nippon Shinyaku Co., Ltd., Kyoto, Japan
| | - Katsuyuki Kaneda
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Endometriosis is a complex benign gynaecologic condition with heterogenous presentations and a large impact on the global healthcare system and on the quality of life for millions of women. Currently, the gold standard for diagnosis involves direct visualization of lesions during surgery confirmed by histopathological diagnosis, resulting in an average delay in its initial diagnosis of 8-10 years. Therefore, the search for noninvasive diagnostic testing options has been subject to a large body of research. RECENT FINDINGS Multiple potential biomarkers have been explored for noninvasive testing for endometriosis, including glycoproteins, inflammatory cytokines, immunological molecules, angiogenesis markers, hormones, micro RNAs (miRNAs), proteomics, metabolomics, genomics and the microbiome. SUMMARY Although there are challenges to consider, areas for real promise and advancement in the noninvasive diagnosis of endometriosis are currently being explored with real promise in the area of miRNAs, proteomics, metabolomics, genomics and the microbiome.
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Wei ET, Mahmoud AA, Naser-Tavakolian K, Yun Sung DL. Superinfected endometrioma, ultrasound guided drainage. Radiol Case Rep 2022; 17:2501-2505. [PMID: 35601388 PMCID: PMC9114154 DOI: 10.1016/j.radcr.2022.04.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Infected endometriomas are rarely described in the literature with most cases being managed laparoscopically or open laparotomy. We present an infected endometrioma in a 48-year-old female with a history of extensive peritoneal adhesions in the setting of a contralateral tubo-ovarian abscess that was unresponsive to antibiotic therapy. Initially, the tubo-ovarian abscess was percutaneously drained, however, the patient did not clinically improve. The suspected infected endometrioma was then percutaneously drained which then led to clinical improvement. Typically, endometriomas are managed laparoscopically chiefly due to the risk of content spillage into the peritoneum, however, the case presented demonstrated that an ultrasound-guided transabdominal approach drainage can be feasible in a surgically complicated patient who was unresponsive to antibiotics in which a percutaneous approach was favored rather than a surgical approach.
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Anand U, Vithanage M, Rajapaksha AU, Dey A, Varjani S, Bontempi E. Inapt management of menstrual hygiene waste (MHW): An urgent global environmental and public health challenge in developed and developing countries. Heliyon 2022; 8:e09859. [PMID: 35815120 PMCID: PMC9260619 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e09859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Uttpal Anand
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Meththika Vithanage
- Ecosphere Resilience Research Center, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, CO 10250, Sri Lanka
| | - Anushka Upamali Rajapaksha
- Ecosphere Resilience Research Center, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, CO 10250, Sri Lanka
- Instrument Center, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, 10250, Sri Lanka
| | - Abhijit Dey
- Department of Life Sciences, Presidency University, 86/1 College Street, Kolkata 700073, West Bengal, India
| | - Sunita Varjani
- Gujarat Pollution Control Board, Paryavaran Bhavan, CHH Road, Sector 10A, Gandhinagar 382 010, Gujarat, India
| | - Elza Bontempi
- INSTM and Chemistry for Technologies Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Brescia, Via Branze, 38, 25123, Brescia, Italy
- Corresponding author.
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Oishi S, Mekaru K, Tanaka SE, Arai W, Ashikawa K, Sakuraba Y, Nishioka M, Nakamura R, Miyagi M, Akamine K, Aoki Y. Microbiome analysis in women with endometriosis: Does a microbiome exist in peritoneal fluid and ovarian cystic fluid? Reprod Med Biol 2022; 21:e12441. [PMID: 35386386 PMCID: PMC8967307 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2021] [Revised: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To investigate the relationship between the microbiome of the female genital tract and endometriosis. Methods This prospective cohort study included 36 women who underwent laparoscopic surgery for ovarian tumor from July 2019 to April 2020. Of them, 18 had endometriosis, and 18 did not have endometriosis. Vaginal secretions, endometrial fluid, peritoneal fluid, and ovarian cystic fluid were collected during surgery. Next‐generation sequencing of bacterial 16S rRNA was performed to characterize the microbiome. Results Specific microbiomes were not detected in either peritoneal fluid or ovarian cystic fluid regardless of the presence or absence of endometriosis and the type of cyst. When the cutoff value of infectious bacterial abundance in the vagina was set as 64.3%, there were many cases more than a cutoff value in the endometriosis group significantly (p = 0.01). When the cutoff value of infectious bacterial abundance in the endometrium was set as 18.6%, there were many cases more than a cutoff level in the endometriosis cases significantly (p = 0.02). Conclusion Peritoneal fluid and ovarian cystic fluid are almost sterile, although dysbiosis may occur in the vaginal and endometrial microbiome in women with endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sugiko Oishi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Graduate School of Medical Science University of the Ryukyus Okinawa Japan
| | - Keiko Mekaru
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Graduate School of Medical Science University of the Ryukyus Okinawa Japan
| | | | | | | | | | - Mikiko Nishioka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Mie University Mie Japan
| | - Rie Nakamura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Graduate School of Medical Science University of the Ryukyus Okinawa Japan
| | - Maho Miyagi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Graduate School of Medical Science University of the Ryukyus Okinawa Japan
| | - Kozue Akamine
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Graduate School of Medical Science University of the Ryukyus Okinawa Japan
| | - Yoichi Aoki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Graduate School of Medical Science University of the Ryukyus Okinawa Japan
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Kusama K, Satoyoshi A, Azumi M, Yoshie M, Kojima J, Mizuno Y, Ono M, Nishi H, Kajihara T, Tamura K. Toll-like receptor signaling pathway triggered by inhibition of serpin A1 stimulates production of inflammatory cytokines by endometrial stromal cells. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:966455. [PMID: 36093086 PMCID: PMC9448891 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.966455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is characterized by the presence of inflamed and fibrotic endometrial tissue outside the uterine cavity. Previously, we found decreased SERPINA1 (alpha-1 antitrypsin) expression in endometriosis-like lesions in a mouse model of endometriosis, suggesting that it exacerbated inflammation in these lesions. However, the molecular mechanism(s) by which SERPINA1 affects expression of inflammatory factors and development of endometriotic lesions have not been fully characterized. To investigate the role of intracellular SERPINA1 in endometrial stromal cells (ESCs), we performed RNA sequence analysis using RNA extracted from ESCs in which SERPINA1 was knocked down. The analysis identified several toll-like receptor (TLR)-related factors as being upregulated. Silencing of SERPINA1 increased expression of TLR3 and TLR4 in ESCs, as well as several TLR signaling pathway components, including MYD88, IRAK1/4, interleukin (IL)-1β, and interferon (IFN)-β. TLR3 or TLR4 agonists increased expression of inflammatory factors in SERPINA1-knockdown ESCs, whereas TLR3 or TLR4 inhibitors decreased expression. In addition, treatment with recombinant IL-1β or IFN-β increased expression of MYD88 and inflammatory factors in ESCs. Immunohistochemical analysis of endometriotic tissues showed that TLR3, TLR4, and MYD88 were localized in endometriosis lesions. Taken together, the data suggest that reduced expression of SERPINA1 induces expression of inflammatory factors by ESCs, which in turn are associated with TLR3/4, IL-1β, and IFN-β signaling. Regulation of intracellular SERPINA1 levels in ESCs may be a strategy to inhibit inflammatory responses in endometriotic lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuya Kusama
- Department of Endocrine Pharmacology, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Tokyo, Japan
- *Correspondence: Kazuya Kusama,
| | - Ayaka Satoyoshi
- Department of Endocrine Pharmacology, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mana Azumi
- Department of Endocrine Pharmacology, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mikihiro Yoshie
- Department of Endocrine Pharmacology, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Junya Kojima
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yumi Mizuno
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saitama Medical University, Saitama, Japan
| | - Masanori Ono
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hirotaka Nishi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takeshi Kajihara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saitama Medical University, Saitama, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Tamura
- Department of Endocrine Pharmacology, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Tokyo, Japan
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Novel diagnostic options for endometriosis - Based on the glycome and microbiome. J Adv Res 2021; 33:167-181. [PMID: 34603787 PMCID: PMC8463906 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2021.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Revised: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 01/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Endometriosis is a chronic gynaecological disease whose aetiology is still unknown. Despite its prevalence among women of reproductive age, the pathology of the disease has not yet been elucidated and only symptomatic treatment is available. Endometriosis has high latency and diagnostic methods are both limited and invasive. Aim of review The aim of this review is to summarise minimally invasive or non-invasive diagnostic methods for endometriosis and their diagnostic efficiencies. Furthermore, we discuss the identification and diagnostic potential of novel disease biomarkers of microbial or glycan origin. Key scientific concepts of review Great efforts have been made to develop minimally invasive or non-invasive diagnostic methods in endometriosis. The problem with most potential biomarker candidates is that they have high accuracy only in cases of severe disease. Therefore, it is necessary to examine other potential biomarkers more closely. Associations between gastrointestinal and genital tract microbial health and endometriosis have been identified. For instance, irritable bowel syndrome is more common in women with endometriosis, and hormonal imbalance has a negative impact on the microbiome of both the genital tract and the gastrointestinal system. Further interrogation of these associations may have potential diagnostic significance and may identify novel therapeutic avenues. Glycomics may also be a potent source of biomarkers of endometriosis, with a number of glyco-biomarkers already approved by the FDA. Endometriosis-associated microbial and glycomic profiles may represent viable targets for development of innovative diagnostics in this debilitating disease.
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Wessels JM, Domínguez MA, Leyland NA, Agarwal SK, Foster WG. Endometrial microbiota is more diverse in people with endometriosis than symptomatic controls. Sci Rep 2021; 11:18877. [PMID: 34556738 PMCID: PMC8460742 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-98380-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a chronic, estrogen-dependent gynecological condition affecting approximately 10% of reproductive age women. The most widely accepted theory of its etiology includes retrograde menstruation. Recent reports suggest the uterus is not sterile. Thus, the refluxed menstrual effluent may carry bacteria, and contribute to inflammation, the establishment and growth of endometriotic lesions. Here, we compared and contrasted uterine bacteria (endometrial microbiota) in people with surgically confirmed presence (N = 12) or absence of endometriosis (N = 9) using next-generation 16S rRNA gene sequencing. We obtained an average of > 9000 sequence reads per endometrial biopsy, and found the endometrial microbiota of people with endometriosis was more diverse (greater Shannon Diversity Index and proportion of 'Other' taxa) than symptomatic controls (with pelvic pain, surgically confirmed absence of endometriosis; diagnosed with other benign gynecological conditions). The relative abundance of bacterial taxa enriched in the endometrial microbiota of people with endometriosis belonged to the Actinobacteria phylum (Gram-positive), Oxalobacteraceae (Gram-negative) and Streptococcaceae (Gram-positive) families, and Tepidimonas (Gram-negative) genus, while those enriched in the symptomatic controls belonged to the Burkholderiaceae (Gram-negative) family, and Ralstonia (Gram-negative) genus. Taken together, results suggest the endometrial microbiota is perturbed in people with endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jocelyn M Wessels
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - Miguel A Domínguez
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Autónoma de Tamaulipas, 87000, Cd. Victoria, TAMPS, Mexico
| | - Nicholas A Leyland
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - Sanjay K Agarwal
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Warren G Foster
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4K1, Canada.
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Khan KN, Fujishita A, Muto H, Masumoto H, Ogawa K, Koshiba A, Mori T, Itoh K, Teramukai S, Matsuda K, Nakashima M, Kitawaki J. Levofloxacin or gonadotropin releasing hormone agonist treatment decreases intrauterine microbial colonization in human endometriosis. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2021; 264:103-116. [PMID: 34298448 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2021.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We examined the hypothesis that antibiotic treatment with or without gonadotropin releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa) may decrease intrauterine infection with consequent decrease in tissue inflammation, cell proliferation and angiogenesis in human endometriosis. STUDY DESIGN This is a prospective non-randomized observational study. Endometrial/endometriotic samples were collected during surgery from 53 women with endometriosis and 47 control women who were treated with levofloxacin (LVFX, 500 mg, once per os) or GnRHa (1.88 mg/IM for 3 months) before surgery. Endometrial samples were analyzed by broad-range polymerase-chain reaction (PCR) amplification of bacteria targeting V5-V6 region of 16S rRNA gene. Immunohistochemical analysis was performed using antibodies against CD138 (Syndecan-1, a marker of plasma cells), CD68 (marker of macrophages), Ki-67 (cell proliferation marker), and CD31 (vascular cells marker). RESULTS 16S rDNA metagenome assay indicated that treatment with either of LVFX or GnRHa + LVFX significantly decreased some components of major bacterial genera comparing to untreated group. In women with endometriosis, treatment with either of LVFX or GnRHa + LVFX significantly decreased Gardnerella, Prevotella, Acidibactor, Atopobium, Megasphaera, and Bradyrhizobium (p < 0.05 for each) comparing to untreated group. Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel test indicated that occurrence rate of chronic endometritis was significantly decreased after GnRHa + LVFX treatment comparing to GnRHa treatment group (p = 0.041). These findings were coincided with significantly decreased CD68-stained macrophage infiltration, Ki-67- stained cell proliferation and CD31-stained micro-vessel density in endometria and endometriotic lesions with histology proven improvement in the morphological appearance of ovarian endometrioma. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that clinical administration of a broad-spectrum antibiotic with or without GnRHa may be effective in improving uterine infection with decrease of tissue inflammation, cell proliferation, and angiogenesis in human endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khaleque N Khan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, 465 Kajii-cho, Kamigyo-ku, 602-8566 Kyoto, Japan.
| | - Akira Fujishita
- Department of Gynecology, Saiseikai Nagasaki Hospital, 2-5-1, Katafuchi, 850-0000 Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Hideki Muto
- Biomedical Research Support Center, Nagasaki University School of Medicine, 1-12-4 Sakamoto, 852-8523 Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Masumoto
- Biomedical Research Support Center, Nagasaki University School of Medicine, 1-12-4 Sakamoto, 852-8523 Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Kanae Ogawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, 465 Kajii-cho, Kamigyo-ku, 602-8566 Kyoto, Japan
| | - Akemi Koshiba
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, 465 Kajii-cho, Kamigyo-ku, 602-8566 Kyoto, Japan
| | - Taisuke Mori
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, 465 Kajii-cho, Kamigyo-ku, 602-8566 Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kyoko Itoh
- Department of Pathology and Applied Neurobiology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, 465 Kajii-cho, Kamigyo-ku, 602-8566 Kyoto, Japan
| | - Satoshi Teramukai
- Department of Biostatistics, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, 465 Kajii-cho, Kamigyo-ku, 602-8566 Kyoto, Japan
| | - Katsuya Matsuda
- Department of Molecular and Diagnostic Pathology, Atomic Bomb Disease Institute, Nagasaki University School of Medicine, 1-12-4 Sakamoto, 852-8523 Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Masahiro Nakashima
- Department of Molecular and Diagnostic Pathology, Atomic Bomb Disease Institute, Nagasaki University School of Medicine, 1-12-4 Sakamoto, 852-8523 Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Jo Kitawaki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, 465 Kajii-cho, Kamigyo-ku, 602-8566 Kyoto, Japan
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Jiang I, Yong PJ, Allaire C, Bedaiwy MA. Intricate Connections between the Microbiota and Endometriosis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:5644. [PMID: 34073257 PMCID: PMC8198999 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 05/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Imbalances in gut and reproductive tract microbiota composition, known as dysbiosis, disrupt normal immune function, leading to the elevation of proinflammatory cytokines, compromised immunosurveillance and altered immune cell profiles, all of which may contribute to the pathogenesis of endometriosis. Over time, this immune dysregulation can progress into a chronic state of inflammation, creating an environment conducive to increased adhesion and angiogenesis, which may drive the vicious cycle of endometriosis onset and progression. Recent studies have demonstrated both the ability of endometriosis to induce microbiota changes, and the ability of antibiotics to treat endometriosis. Endometriotic microbiotas have been consistently associated with diminished Lactobacillus dominance, as well as the elevated abundance of bacterial vaginosis-related bacteria and other opportunistic pathogens. Possible explanations for the implications of dysbiosis in endometriosis include the Bacterial Contamination Theory and immune activation, cytokine-impaired gut function, altered estrogen metabolism and signaling, and aberrant progenitor and stem-cell homeostasis. Although preliminary, antibiotic and probiotic treatments have demonstrated efficacy in treating endometriosis, and female reproductive tract (FRT) microbiota sampling has successfully predicted disease risk and stage. Future research should aim to characterize the "core" upper FRT microbiota and elucidate mechanisms behind the relationship between the microbiota and endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Mohamed A. Bedaiwy
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia, D415A-4500 Oak Street, Vancouver, BC V6H 3N1, Canada; (I.J.); (P.J.Y.); (C.A.)
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de Azevedo BC, Mansur F, Podgaec S. A systematic review of toll-like receptors in endometriosis. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2021; 304:309-316. [PMID: 33928453 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-021-06075-x] [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] [Received: 11/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The pathogen-associated molecular patterns and the danger-associated molecular patterns are possibly responsible for the activation of the inflammatory process in endometriosis through the activation of toll-like receptors (TLRs). OBJECTIVE The aim of this systematic review was to critically analyze the findings of published articles on TLRs in endometriosis. METHODS The keywords used were "endometriosis" and "toll-like" and the search was performed in Pubmed, Scielo and Lilacs databases. This study followed the PRISMA guidelines and the risk of bias of articles was conducted by Newcastle-Ottawa scale (NOS). RESULTS Overall, the studies analyzed in this review point toward an increased expression of TLRs two, four and nine in women with endometriosis. Among all TLRs, TLR4 was the most cited receptor. CONCLUSION Despite the evidence demonstrating elevated TLR levels in endometriosis, the relationship with the disease is still unclear and needs to be clarified in further studies about innate immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruna Cestari de Azevedo
- Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, Instituto Israelita de Ensino e Pesquisa Albert Einstein, Avenida Albert Einstein, 627, Morumbi, São Paulo, CEP 05652-900, Brazil.
| | - Fernanda Mansur
- Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, Instituto Israelita de Ensino e Pesquisa Albert Einstein, Avenida Albert Einstein, 627, Morumbi, São Paulo, CEP 05652-900, Brazil
| | - Sérgio Podgaec
- Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, Instituto Israelita de Ensino e Pesquisa Albert Einstein, Avenida Albert Einstein, 627, Morumbi, São Paulo, CEP 05652-900, Brazil
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Lee SR, Lee JC, Kim SH, Oh YS, Chae HD, Seo H, Kang CS, Shin TS. Altered Composition of Microbiota in Women with Ovarian Endometrioma: Microbiome Analyses of Extracellular Vesicles in the Peritoneal Fluid. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22094608. [PMID: 33925708 PMCID: PMC8124866 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Human microbiota refers to living microorganisms which colonize our body and crucially contribute to the metabolism of nutrients and various physiologic functions. According to recently accumulated evidence, human microbiota dysbiosis in the genital tract or pelvic cavity could be involved in the pathogenesis and/or pathophysiology of endometriosis. We aimed to investigate whether the composition of microbiome is altered in the peritoneal fluid in women with endometriosis. We recruited 45 women with histological evidence of ovarian endometrioma and 45 surgical controls without endometriosis. Following the isolation of extracellular vesicles from peritoneal fluid samples from women with and without endometriosis, bacterial genomic DNA was sequenced using next-generation sequencing of the 16S rDNA V3–V4 regions. Diversity analysis showed significant differences in the microbial community at phylum, class, order, family, and genus levels between the two groups. The abundance of Acinetobacter, Pseudomonas, Streptococcus, and Enhydrobacter significantly increased while the abundance of Propionibacterium, Actinomyces, and Rothia significantly decreased in the endometriosis group compared with those in the control group (p < 0.05). These findings strongly suggest that microbiome composition is altered in the peritoneal environment in women with endometriosis. Further studies are necessary to verify whether dysbiosis itself can cause establishment and/or progression of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sa-Ra Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Korea; (S.-R.L.); (J.-C.L.); (Y.-S.O.); (H.-D.C.)
| | - Jae-Chul Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Korea; (S.-R.L.); (J.-C.L.); (Y.-S.O.); (H.-D.C.)
| | - Sung-Hoon Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Korea; (S.-R.L.); (J.-C.L.); (Y.-S.O.); (H.-D.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-2-3010-3647; Fax: +82-2-476-7331
| | - Young-Sang Oh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Korea; (S.-R.L.); (J.-C.L.); (Y.-S.O.); (H.-D.C.)
| | - Hee-Dong Chae
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Korea; (S.-R.L.); (J.-C.L.); (Y.-S.O.); (H.-D.C.)
| | - Hochan Seo
- MD Healthcare Inc., Seoul 121-270, Korea; (H.S.); (C.-S.K.); (T.-S.S.)
| | - Chil-Sung Kang
- MD Healthcare Inc., Seoul 121-270, Korea; (H.S.); (C.-S.K.); (T.-S.S.)
| | - Tae-Seop Shin
- MD Healthcare Inc., Seoul 121-270, Korea; (H.S.); (C.-S.K.); (T.-S.S.)
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D'Alterio MN, Giuliani C, Scicchitano F, Laganà AS, Oltolina NM, Sorrentino F, Nappi L, Orrù G, Angioni S. Possible role of microbiome in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. Minerva Obstet Gynecol 2021; 73:193-214. [PMID: 33851803 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-606x.21.04788-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is an urgent necessity to explore the complex pathophysiological nature of endometriosis, which may enable the rationale for new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies to be discovered. This systematic review aimed to clarify the bidirectional relationship between endometriosis and the microbiome and evaluate if the microbiome may be involved in endometriosis's pathogenesis, establishing a potential connection between the different studies. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION Studies were identified through a systematic literature search of papers that evaluated the microbiomes of human or other animal species with endometriosis and of those without in the electronic database PubMed/Medline, and Embase without a date restriction. We included all cohort studies focusing on the interaction between endometriosis and the microbiomes of humans or other mammals, evaluating if the microbiome may be involved in endometriosis's pathogenesis. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS Endometriosis appears to be associated with elevated levels of different microorganisms across various microbiome sites. An ineffective immune response seems to play a key role in endometriosis pathogenesis, and there is some scientific proof to state that the immune response may be modulated by the microbiome. Interestingly, nine studies of our review detected species belonging to the phyla Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Negativicutes characterized by Gram-negative staining, that were significantly increased in endometriosis cohorts. CONCLUSIONS Laboratory and clinical investigations indicate that hosts' microbiome profiles with and without endometriosis can be significantly different. To further our understanding of the relationships between endometriosis and the host microbiome, more studies are necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio N D'Alterio
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy -
| | - Carlotta Giuliani
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Francesco Scicchitano
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Antonio S Laganà
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Filippo del Ponte Hospital, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Noemi M Oltolina
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Filippo del Ponte Hospital, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Felice Sorrentino
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Luigi Nappi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Germano Orrù
- Molecular Biology Service Lab, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Stefano Angioni
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
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50
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Poli-Neto OB, Carlos D, Favaretto A, Rosa-E-Silva JC, Meola J, Tiezzi D. Eutopic endometrium from women with endometriosis and chlamydial endometritis share immunological cell types and DNA repair imbalance: A transcriptome meta-analytical perspective. J Reprod Immunol 2021; 145:103307. [PMID: 33725527 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2021.103307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to identify the key similarities between the eutopic endometrium of women with endometriosis and chlamydia-induced endometritis taking into account tissue microenvironment heterogeneity, transcript gene profile, and enriched pathways. A meta-analysis of whole transcriptome microarrays was performed using publicly available data, including samples containing both glandular and stromal endometrial components. Control samples were obtained from women without any reported pathological condition. Only samples obtained during the proliferative menstrual phase were included. Cellular tissue heterogeneity was predicted using a method that integrates gene set enrichment and deconvolution approaches. The batch effect was estimated by principal variant component analysis and removed using an empirical Bayes method. Differentially expressed genes were identified using an adjusted p-value < 0.05 and fold change = 1.5. The protein-protein interaction network was built using the STRING database and interaction score over 400. The Molecular Signatures Database was used to analyse the functional enrichment analysis. Both conditions showed similarities in cell types in the microenvironment, particularly CD4+ and CD8+ Tem cells, NKT cells, Th2 cells, basophils, and eosinophils. With regards to the regulation of cellular senescence and DNA integrity/damage checkpoint, which are commonly enriched pathways, 21 genes were down-regulated and directly related to DNA repair. Compared to the endometriosis samples, some chlamydial endometritis samples presented a lack of enriched immune pathways. Our results suggest that both conditions show similar distributions of microenvironment cell types, the downregulation of genes involved in DNA repair and cell cycle control, and pathways involved in immune response evasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omero Benedicto Poli-Neto
- Gynecological and Obstetrics Department, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, 14049-900, SP, Brazil.
| | - Daniela Carlos
- Biochemistry and Immunology Department, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Aureo Favaretto
- Gynecological and Obstetrics Department, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, 14049-900, SP, Brazil
| | - Julio Cesar Rosa-E-Silva
- Gynecological and Obstetrics Department, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, 14049-900, SP, Brazil
| | - Juliana Meola
- Gynecological and Obstetrics Department, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, 14049-900, SP, Brazil
| | - Daniel Tiezzi
- Gynecological and Obstetrics Department, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, 14049-900, SP, Brazil
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