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Powell JE, Fung JN, Shakhbazov K, Sapkota Y, Cloonan N, Hemani G, Hillman KM, Kaufmann S, Luong HT, Bowdler L, Painter JN, Holdsworth-Carson SJ, Visscher PM, Dinger ME, Healey M, Nyholt DR, French JD, Edwards SL, Rogers PAW, Montgomery GW. Endometriosis risk alleles at 1p36.12 act through inverse regulation of CDC42 and LINC00339. Hum Mol Genet 2018; 25:5046-5058. [PMID: 28171565 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddw320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2016] [Revised: 08/28/2016] [Accepted: 09/12/2016] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified markers within the WNT4 region on chromosome 1p36.12 showing consistent and strong association with increasing endometriosis risk. Fine mapping using sequence and imputed genotype data has revealed strong candidates for the causal SNPs within these critical regions; however, the molecular pathogenesis of these SNPs is currently unknown. We used gene expression data collected from whole blood from 862 individuals and endometrial tissue from 136 individuals from independent populations of European descent to examine the mechanism underlying endometriosis susceptibility. Association mapping results from 7,090 individuals (2,594 cases and 4,496 controls) supported rs3820282 as the SNP with the strongest association for endometriosis risk (P = 1.84 × 10−5, OR = 1.244 (1.126-1.375)). SNP rs3820282 is a significant eQTL in whole blood decreasing expression of LINC00339 (also known as HSPC157) and increasing expression of CDC42 (P = 2.0 ×10−54 and 4.5x10−4 respectively). The largest effects were for two LINC00339 probes (P = 2.0 ×10−54; 1.0 × 10−34). The eQTL for LINC00339 was also observed in endometrial tissue (P = 2.4 ×10−8) with the same direction of effect for both whole blood and endometrial tissue. There was no evidence for eQTL effects for WNT4. Chromatin conformation capture provides evidence for risk SNPs interacting with the promoters of both LINC00339 and CDC4 and luciferase reporter assays suggest the risk SNP rs12038474 is located in a transcriptional silencer for CDC42 and the risk allele increases expression of CDC42. However, no effect of rs3820282 was observed in the LINC00339 expression in Ishikawa cells. Taken together, our results suggest that SNPs increasing endometriosis risk in this region act through CDC42, but further functional studies are required to rule out inverse regulation of both LINC00339 and CDC42.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph E Powell
- Centre for Neurogenetics and Statistical Genomics, Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Brisbane, Australia.,The Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Jenny N Fung
- Genetics and Computational Biology Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Konstantin Shakhbazov
- Centre for Neurogenetics and Statistical Genomics, Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Yadav Sapkota
- Genetics and Computational Biology Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Nicole Cloonan
- Genetics and Computational Biology Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Gibran Hemani
- Centre for Neurogenetics and Statistical Genomics, Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Brisbane, Australia.,MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Oakfield House, Bristol, UK
| | - Kristine M Hillman
- Genetics and Computational Biology Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Susanne Kaufmann
- Genetics and Computational Biology Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Hien T Luong
- Genetics and Computational Biology Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Lisa Bowdler
- Genetics and Computational Biology Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Jodie N Painter
- Genetics and Computational Biology Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Sarah J Holdsworth-Carson
- Gynaecology Research Centre, University of Melbourne, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville VIC, Australia
| | - Peter M Visscher
- Centre for Neurogenetics and Statistical Genomics, Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Marcel E Dinger
- Garvan Medical Research Institute, Sydney, Australia,St Vincent’s Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia and
| | - Martin Healey
- Gynaecology Research Centre, University of Melbourne, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville VIC, Australia
| | - Dale R Nyholt
- Genetics and Computational Biology Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia.,Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, Australia
| | - Juliet D French
- Genetics and Computational Biology Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Stacey L Edwards
- Genetics and Computational Biology Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Peter A W Rogers
- Gynaecology Research Centre, University of Melbourne, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville VIC, Australia
| | - Grant W Montgomery
- Genetics and Computational Biology Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
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Gogusev J, de Jolinière JB, Telvi L, Doussau M, Stojkoski A, Levradon M. Cellular and Genetic Constitution of Human Endometriosis Tissues. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1177/107155760000700201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jean Gogusev
- INSERM U507, Hôpital Necker, Paris; Service de Gynécologie Obstétrique, Hôpital Beaujon, Clichy; Service de Cytogénétique, Hôpital St. Vincent de Paul, Paris, France; INSERM U507, Hôpital Necker, 161, Rue de Sevres, 75743-Paris Cedex 15, France
| | | | | | | | | | - Michel Levradon
- INSERM U507, Hôpital Necker, Paris; Service de Gynécologie Obstétrique, Hôpital Beaujon, Clichy; and Service de Cytogénétique, Hôpital St. Vincent de Paul, Paris, France
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3
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Wei M, Cheng Y, Bu H, Zhao Y, Zhao W. Length of Menstrual Cycle and Risk of Endometriosis: A Meta-Analysis of 11 Case-Control Studies. Medicine (Baltimore) 2016; 95:e2922. [PMID: 26945395 PMCID: PMC4782879 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000002922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a complex disease that affects a large number of women worldwide and may cause pain and infertility. To systematically review published studies evaluating the relationship between menstrual cycle length and risk of endometriosis. We searched the Cochrane Library, PubMed, Web of Science, and EMBASE in databases in July 2014 using the keywords "case-control studies," "epidemiologic determinants," "risk factors," "menstrual cycle," "menstrual length," "menstrual character," and "endometriosis." We included case-control studies published in English that investigated cases of surgically confirmed endometriosis and examined the relationship between endometriosis risk and menstrual cycle. Eleven articles that met the inclusion criteria included data of 3392 women with endometriosis and 5006 controls. Fixed-effects and random-effects models were used for the evaluation. For the association of risk of endometriosis and menstrual cycle length shorter than or equal to 27 days (SEQ27) or length longer than or equal to 29 days (LEQ29), the odds ratio was 1.22 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.05-1.43) and 0.68 (95% CI: 0.48-0.96), respectively. In conclusion, this meta-analysis suggests that menstrual cycle length SEQ27 increase the risk of endometriosis and cycle length LEQ29 decrease the risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Wei
- From the Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology (MW), Clinical Research (YZ), and Neurology (WZ), Nankai Hospital, Tianjin Academy of Integrative Medicine; and Department of Public Health, School of Chinese Medicine (HEB) and Graduate School (YFC, WLZ), Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
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Bouquet De Jolinière J, Ayoubi JMB, Gianaroli L, Dubuisson JB, Gogusev J, Feki A. Endometriosis: a new cellular and molecular genetic approach for understanding the pathogenesis and evolutivity. Front Surg 2014; 1:16. [PMID: 25593940 PMCID: PMC4286973 DOI: 10.3389/fsurg.2014.00016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2013] [Accepted: 05/02/2014] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a benign disease with high prevalence in women of reproductive age estimated between 10 and 15% and is associated with considerable morbidity. Its etiology and pathogenesis are controversial but it is believed to involve multiple genetic, environmental, immunological, angiogenic, and endocrine processes. Altered expressions of growth factors, cytokines, adhesion molecules, matrix metalloproteinases, and enzymes for estrogen synthesis and metabolism have been frequently observed in this condition. The possibility of genetic basis of endometriosis is demonstrated in studies of familial disease, in which the incidence of endometriosis is higher for first-degree relatives of probands as compared to controls. This review describes mainly the cellular, cytochemical, cytogenetic, and molecular genetic features of endometriotic lesions and cultured endometriotic cells. In attempts to identify candidate gene (s) involved in the pathogenesis of endometriosis, a tissue-based approaches including conventional cytogenetics (RHG-banding), loss of heterozygosity (LOH), and comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) were employed. In addition to the karyotypic anomalies, consistent chromosome instability was confirmed by CGH and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). The nature and significance of the molecular genetic aberrations in relation to the locations and function of oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes will be discussed. At last, a possible pathogenic role of embryonic duct remnants was observed in seven female fetal reproductive tract in endometriosis and may induce a discussion about the beginning of ovarian tumors and malignant proliferations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean Bouquet De Jolinière
- Maternity and Surgical Department of Gynecology, HFR Hôpital Cantonal Fribourg , Fribourg , Switzerland ; Endodiag Research Laboratory Genopole , Evry , France
| | - Jean Marc Bernard Ayoubi
- Endodiag Research Laboratory Genopole , Evry , France ; Department of Gynecologic Surgery, Foch Hospital , Suresnes , France
| | - Luca Gianaroli
- S.I.S.Me.R. Reproductive Medicine Unit , Bologna , Italy
| | - Jean Bernard Dubuisson
- Maternity and Surgical Department of Gynecology, HFR Hôpital Cantonal Fribourg , Fribourg , Switzerland
| | - Jean Gogusev
- Endodiag Research Laboratory Genopole , Evry , France ; INSERM U507, Hospital Necker, Université Paris Descartes , Paris , France
| | - Anis Feki
- Maternity and Surgical Department of Gynecology, HFR Hôpital Cantonal Fribourg , Fribourg , Switzerland
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Abstract
Endometriosis is a common gynecological disease defined by extrauterine growth of endometrial glands and stroma. A variety of theories have been proposed to account for the pathogenesis of this disease, including retrograde transplantation theory, metaplasia of coelomic epithelium, hematogenic and lymphogenic spread, and remnants of the Mŭllerian duct. However, the etiopathology of endometriosis is still obscure. In this article, we aim to summarize recent researches concerning the growth mechanisms of endometriotic cells in implanted sites systematically, including the adhesion, invasion, angiogenesis, proliferation, apoptosis of endometriotic cells, variations of the immune molecules and endometriotic cells themselves, which may provide clues for future researches in the pathogenesis of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiao-Ying Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
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Siqueira JM, Barreto AB, Saad-Hossne R. Treatment of endometriosis with local acetylsalicylic acid injection: experimental study in rabbits. J Minim Invasive Gynecol 2012; 18:800-6. [PMID: 22024267 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmig.2011.08.721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2011] [Revised: 08/19/2011] [Accepted: 08/24/2011] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The objective of the present study was to estimate the effects of introduction of acetylsalicylic acid solution into peritoneal implants in autologous endometrium as a method for treating endometriosis. Forty adult female rabbits were subdivided into 4 groups of 10 rabbits each, and endometriosis was induced via autotransplantation of endometrial fragments into the peritoneal cavity. At 30 days after induction of endometriosis, all animals were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 protocols. In protocol 1, animals were evaluated at 24 hours after treatment; group 1 (control) received physiologic solution, and group 2 received acetylsalicylic acid. In protocol 2, animals were evaluated at 10 days after treatment, group 3 (control) and group 4 received acetylsalicylic acid. After measuring the lesion, the endometriotic focus was removed and prepared for mounting on slides for histologic analysis. Imaging software was used for analysis of the total remaining area of endometrial tissue. The affected area in acetylsalicylic acid-treated animals was smaller than that in control animals at 24 hours and 10 days after treatment; a significant difference was found between control and treated groups (p < .001). Statistical analysis comparing protocols 1 and 2 demonstrated no differences between controls groups or acetylsalicylic acid groups (p = .30), and no differences between times (p = .75). Acetylsalicylic acid solution led to less growth (or higher involution) of endometrial implants. Acetylsalicylic acid injected directly into endometriotic foci was effective in their destruction. This presents new perspectives for treatment of endometriosis and for clinical applications based on further clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Menezes Siqueira
- Department of Surgery, Botucatu Medical School, Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
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7
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Cheung KT, Trevisan J, Kelly JG, Ashton KM, Stringfellow HF, Taylor SE, Singh MN, Martin-Hirsch PL, Martin FL. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy discriminates a spectral signature of endometriosis independent of inter-individual variation. Analyst 2011; 136:2047-55. [DOI: 10.1039/c0an00972e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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Vercellini P, Somigliana E, Viganò P, Abbiati A, Barbara G, Crosignani PG. Endometriosis: current therapies and new pharmacological developments. Drugs 2009; 69:649-75. [PMID: 19405548 DOI: 10.2165/00003495-200969060-00002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory condition that is responsive to management with steroids. The establishment of a steady hormonal environment and inhibition of ovulation can temporarily suppress ectopic implants and reduce inflammation as well as associated pain symptoms. In terms of pharmacological management, the currently available agents are not curative, and treatment often needs to be continued for years or until pregnancy is desired. Similar efficacy has been observed from the various therapies that have been investigated for endometriosis. Accordingly, combined oral contraceptives and progestins, based on their favourable safety profile, tolerability and cost, should be considered as first-line options, as an alternative to surgery and for post-operative adjuvant use. In situations where progestins and oral contraceptives prove ineffective, are poorly tolerated or are contraindicated, gonadotrophin-releasing hormone analogues, danazol or gestrinone may be used. Future therapeutic options for managing endometriosis must compare favourably against existing agents before they can be considered for inclusion into current practice. Finally, as reproductive prognosis is not ameliorated by medical treatment, it is not indicated for women seeking conception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Vercellini
- Clinica Ostetrica e Ginecologica I, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
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9
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Gajbhiye R, Suryawanshi A, Khan S, Meherji P, Warty N, Raut V, Chehna N, Khole V. Multiple endometrial antigens are targeted in autoimmune endometriosis. Reprod Biomed Online 2008; 16:817-24. [PMID: 18549691 DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)60147-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis is defined as the growth of endometrial glands and stroma in ectopic locations. Its aetiology is multifactorial, but autoimmunity has been shown to play a role in its onset and development. The present study aimed to investigate the presence of both IgG and IgM anti-endometrial antibodies in sera of endometriosis patients in comparison with age-matched controls, and to also investigate the cognate endometrial proteins involved. Sera from these groups were screened by western blot and immunohistochemistry. Thirteen out of the 40 sera tested were positive for IgG isotype, and 10/27 IgG negative patients were positive for IgM isotype. These findings indicate that endometrial antibodies of IgG and IgM classes could be detected in almost 60% of endometriosis patients. Of the various identified endometrial antigens, 30 and 45 kDa antigens were immunodominant in both IgG and IgM positive endometriosis patients. With immunohistochemistry, positive sera showed reactivity in luminal epithelium, glandular epithelium and stroma. These anti-endometrial antibodies might be partially responsible for failure of implantation leading to infertility. Identification of specific targets would be a help in understanding the pathophysiology of endometriosis, and would also help in setting up a non-invasive test for the diagnosis of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Gajbhiye
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research, J. M. Street, Parel, Mumbai, India, 400 012
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10
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Vercellini P, Somigliana E, Viganò P, Abbiati A, Daguati R, Crosignani PG. Endometriosis: current and future medical therapies. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2008; 22:275-306. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2007.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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11
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Viganò P, Parazzini F, Somigliana E, Vercellini P. Endometriosis: epidemiology and aetiological factors. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2006; 18:177-200. [PMID: 15157637 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2004.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 422] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Estimates of the frequency of endometriosis vary widely. Based on the few reliable data, the prevalence of the condition can reasonably be assumed to be around 10%. Although no consistent information is available on the incidence of the disease, temporal trends suggest an increase among women of reproductive age. This could be explained-at least in part-by changing reproductive habits. Numerous epidemiological studies have indicated that nulliparous women and women reporting short and heavy menstrual cycles are at increased risk of developing endometriosis; data on other risk factors are less consistent. These epidemiological findings strongly support the menstrual reflux hypothesis. Additional evidence in favour of this theory includes the demonstration of viable endometrial cells in the menstrual effluent and peritoneal fluid, experimental implantation and growth of endometrium within the peritoneal cavity, observation of some degree of retrograde menstruation in most women undergoing laparoscopy during menses, and an association between obstructed menstrual outflow and endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Viganò
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Cusano Milanino, University of Milan, Milano, Italy
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12
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Fedele L, Bianchi S, Fontana E, Berlanda N, Frontino G, Bulfoni A. Medical management of endometriosis. WOMEN'S HEALTH (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2006; 2:297-308. [PMID: 19803901 DOI: 10.2217/17455057.2.2.297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Current approved medical therapies for endometriosis rely on drugs that suppress ovarian steroids and induce a hypoestrogenic state, which determines the atrophy of the ectopic endometrium. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogs such as danazol, progestogens and estrogen-progestin combinations have all proven effective in relieving pain and reducing the extent of endometriotic implants. However, symptoms often recur after discontinuation of therapy and hypoestrogenism-related side effects limit the long-term use of most medications. Recently, knowledge of the pathogenesis of endometriosis, particularly at the molecular level, has grown substantially, providing a rational basis for the development of new drugs with precise targets that may be safely administered over the long term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Fedele
- Clinica Ostetrico-Ginecologica "Luigi Mangiagalli", Università di Milano, Via commenda n 1220122 Milano, Italy.
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Yao Z, Shen X, Capodanno I, Donnelly M, Fenyk-Melody J, Hausamann J, Nunes C, Strauss J, Vakerich K. Validation of rat endometriosis model by using raloxifene as a positive control for the evaluation of novel SERM compounds. J INVEST SURG 2005; 18:177-83. [PMID: 16126628 DOI: 10.1080/08941930591004412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Approximately 10% of women of reproductive age suffer from endometriosis, a potentially painful disease process and important cause of female infertility. Raloxifene, a commercially available SERM (selective estrogen receptor modulator) compound, used for the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis, has preclinically demonstrated its estrogen antagonist effect on uterine tissue in rats. There is potential that SERM compounds may become a viable treatment option for human endometriosis, although more investigation is needed. In this study, raloxifene was administered at various doses to determine the efficacy and an appropriate dose level for use as a positive control in a rat model of endometriosis. Prior to dose administration, all rats underwent a bilateral ovariectomy, autologous transplantation of uterine tissue onto the peritoneal surface of the abdominal wall, and implantation of a subcutaneous estrogen pellet (E2). Two separate postsurgical experiments were performed. In experiment 1, following a 4-wk recovery, the rats bearing implants were assigned to three groups: (1) removal of the E2 pellet and dosing vehicle only (n = 7); (2) E2 and vehicle (n = 6); and (3) E2 and raloxifene at 10.0 mg/kg (n = 6). In experiment 2, also following a 4-week recovery, the rats bearing implants were assigned to five groups (n = 8/group): (1) E2 and vehicle only; (2) E2 and raloxifene, 0.3 mg/kg/d; (3) E2 and raloxifene, 1.0 mg/kg/d; (4) E2 and raloxifene, 3.0 mg/kg/d; (5) E2 and raloxifene, 10.0 mg/kg/d. All rats were dosed orally BID for 14 d. At the end of the study, the implanted endometrium was remeasured and compared to the pretreatment measurement. The results from both studies demonstrated that Raloxifene at only one dose (10.0 mg/kg) displayed significant implant regression (p < .05). Subsequently, our rat endometriosis experimental model consistently uses the exogenous E2 pellet and raloxifene at 10 mg/kg, BID, as a positive control to help screen and compare novel SERM compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z Yao
- Merck Research Laboratories, Department of Laboratory, Animal Resources Rahway, New Jersey 07065, USA.
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15
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Blumenfeld Z. Hormonal suppressive therapy for endometriosis may not improve patient health. Fertil Steril 2004; 81:487-92. [PMID: 15037387 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2003.07.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2003] [Revised: 07/25/2003] [Accepted: 07/25/2003] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To critically examine the possible association between hormonal treatment of endometriosis and ovarian cancer. RESULT(S) The malignant potential of endometriosis has been suggested by several clinical studies. Although controversial, ovarian carcinoma of the endometrioid and clear cell subtypes has been associated with endometriosis, particularly among subjects with a longstanding disease. Furthermore, a significantly higher frequency of endometriosis has been found in patients undergoing surgery for endometrioid, clear cell, and mixed subtypes of ovarian carcinoma, as compared with the other subtypes. Changes in the genomic material in endometriotic implants were observed by many investigators in chromosomes 1, 5, 6, 7, 16, and 22 by several methods (fluorescent in situ hybridization, comparative genomic hybridization, and others). Because hormonal ablative treatments may suppress the normal, eukaryotic cells more than the aneuploid cells bearing chromosomal aberrations, it may increase the rate of dyskaryotic cells in the endometriotic implants, possibly augmenting the risk of malignant transformation. A recent published association between Danazol and ovarian cancer suggests that such a theoretical risk may occur. CONCLUSION(S) The hormonal ablative treatment of endometriosis may increase the risk of malignant transformation in the endometriotic implants by causing a negative selection and increasing the rate of dyskaryosis and loss of heterozygosity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeev Blumenfeld
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rambam Medical Center, and the B Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion, Isreal Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel.
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Sharpe-Timms KL, Zimmer RL, Ricke EA, Piva M, Horowitz GM. Endometriotic haptoglobin binds to peritoneal macrophages and alters their function in women with endometriosis. Fertil Steril 2002; 78:810-9. [PMID: 12372461 DOI: 10.1016/s0015-0282(02)03317-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effects of endometriotic haptoglobin on peritoneal macrophage function. DESIGN Prospective laboratory study. SETTING School of medicine. PATIENT(S) Twenty-three women with and without endometriosis. INTERVENTION(S) Peritoneal macrophages cultured without or with haptoglobin. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Peritoneal macrophage haptoglobin immunoreactivity, adhesion, and interleukin-6 (IL-6) production. RESULT(S) In vivo, significantly more peritoneal macrophages from women with endometriosis bound haptoglobin and exhibited reduced adhesion compared to women without endometriosis. In vitro, haptoglobin treatment significantly decreased peritoneal macrophage adherence only in women without endometriosis; this effect was not seen in women with endometriosis, probably owing to in vivo haptoglobin saturation. Conversely, haptoglobin treatment robustly increased IL-6 production only by macrophages from women with endometriosis, suggesting differential immune response in these women. CONCLUSION(S) Endometriotic lesions synthesize and secrete a unique form of haptoglobin (endometriosis protein-I) that is up-regulated by IL-6. This study shows that haptoglobin adheres to peritoneal macrophages; decreases adhesion, which may influence phagocytic function; and up-regulates IL-6 production. Hence, a feed-forward loop is proposed whereby endometriotic lesion haptoglobin decreases macrophage phagocytic function while increasing IL-6 production, which in turn increases endometriotic haptoglobin and promotes establishment of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathy L Sharpe-Timms
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, Missouri 65212, USA.
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Vignali M, Infantino M, Matrone R, Chiodo I, Somigliana E, Busacca M, Viganò P. Endometriosis: novel etiopathogenetic concepts and clinical perspectives. Fertil Steril 2002; 78:665-78. [PMID: 12372439 DOI: 10.1016/s0015-0282(02)03233-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To discuss current ideas about therapy for endometriosis derived from new observations generated by using molecular biology techniques and in vivo animal models of disease. METHOD(S) The MEDLINE database was reviewed for English-language articles on new drugs that affect the endocrine or immunologic system, the possibility that endometriosis has multiple forms, and the association of endometriosis with cancer. Specific attention was given to in vivo studies in animals or humans. CONCLUSION(S) Among the novel potential candidate drugs, aromatase inhibitors and raloxifene should be considered for treatment of postmenopausal women with endometriosis. Notable observations have emerged from studies of immunomodulators and antiinflammatory agents in animal models of disease. These findings must be confirmed in women. The histogenesis of ovarian endometriomas is still unclear, thus limiting new experimental approaches to this form of disease. Given the low but established risk for malignant transformation of endometriosis, efforts should be directed toward identification of susceptibility loci for the disease and its potential transformation into cancer.
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Perez MC, Bodine PVN, Leiva MC, Isaacson KB, Komm BS. Signal transduction pathways involved in macrophage migration induced by peritoneal fluid chemotactic factors in stages I and II endometriosis. Fertil Steril 2002; 77:1261-8. [PMID: 12057738 DOI: 10.1016/s0015-0282(02)03130-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the role of G-protein coupled signaling pathways in activation of macrophage migration in endometriosis stages I and II. DESIGN Case controlled study. SETTING University hospital. PATIENT(S) Fifteen patients undergoing laparoscopy for elective sterilization (n = 5) or for diagnosis of endometriosis stages I and II associated with infertility (n = 10). INTERVENTION(S) Peritoneal fluid samples were collected during laparoscopy. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Macrophage migration induced by peritoneal fluid from patients with endometriosis stages I and II (PF SI-II) and potential G-protein coupled receptors and second messengers involved in macrophage activation. RESULT(S) Potential G-protein coupled receptors and second messengers involved in macrophage activation were evaluated after incubation of U-937 cells differentiated into macrophages with inhibitors of phospholipase A and C, adenylate cyclase, and protein kinase A and C. Macrophage chemotactic activity induced by PF SI-II was inhibited in the presence of a phospholipase C and A2 inhibitor (IC50= 30 microM) and after treatment with myristoylated protein kinase C peptide inhibitor (50 nM). An increase in inositol phosphate (IP3) was also observed in macrophages exposed to PF SI-II. Activation of multiple G-proteins in macrophages was examined after exposure of cells to PF SI-II in the presence and absence of Bordettela pertussis and cholera toxins. No effect on macrophage migration was observed. CONCLUSION(S) Macrophage chemotaxis induced by PF SI-II appears to involve activation of pertussis toxin-insensitive G-protein coupled receptors in macrophages. Our data suggest that these events lead to subsequent activation of phospholipases followed by generation of IP3 and potential mobilization of intracellular Ca2+. Subsequent phosphorylation of target proteins by protein kinase C may regulate the chemotactic responses. The adenylate cyclase pathway does not appear to play a role in this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Claudia Perez
- Endocrinology Department, Women's Health Research Institute, Wyeth Pharmaceuticals, Collegeville, Pennsylvania 19426, USA.
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Sharpe-Timms KL, Cox KE. Paracrine regulation of matrix metalloproteinase expression in endometriosis. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2002; 955:147-56; discussion 157-8, 396-406. [PMID: 11949944 DOI: 10.1111/j.1749-6632.2002.tb02775.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Following retrograde menstruation, shed endometrial tissue fragments attach to and invade the peritoneal surface to form established endometriotic lesions. With disease progression, the biochemically active lesions undergo remodeling and become fibrotic. Matrix metalloproteinase enzymes (MMPs) and the tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) play a significant role in normal endometrial remodeling during menses. Anomalous expression of MMPs and TIMPs has been identified in endometriotic lesions as compared to their highly regulated expression in eutopic endometrium. The paracrine mechanisms regulating misexpression of MMPs and TIMPs by endometriotic lesions are, however, not well defined. Misexpression of the MMPs and TIMPs may be due to innate anomalies in the eutopic endometrium from women with endometriosis, in the resident immune cells and peritoneal cells that juxtapose the ectopic endometrium, and/or numerous substances present in peritoneal fluid of women with endometriosis. The majority of MMPs are under strict transcriptional regulation. Steroid hormones and cytokines appear to act on the MMP promoter, either independently or in consort, to provide both positive and negative regulation of these genes. Misregulated expression of MMPs and TIMPs is associated with a more aggressive phenotype and a cascade of events facilitating peritoneal extracellular matrix degradation and establishment or remodeling of endometriotic lesions. The mechanisms by which MMP and TIMP expression are misregulated warrant further investigation as such information may provide insight into novel therapeutic modalities for endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathy L Sharpe-Timms
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Missouri-Columbia, 65212, USA.
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Cox KE, Piva M, Sharpe-Timms KL. Differential regulation of matrix metalloproteinase-3 gene expression in endometriotic lesions compared with endometrium. Biol Reprod 2001; 65:1297-303. [PMID: 11566756 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod65.4.1297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
In vivo levels of mRNA and the specificity of the extrauterine environment on matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-3, MMP-2, and tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase (TIMP)-1 were evaluated in eutopic and ectopic endometrial tissue during the establishment of endometriosis in a rat model. Uteri and endometriotic implants were collected and frozen at 36 h, 2 wk, and 4 wk postsurgery to study in vivo mRNA levels. Intact uteri, uterine tissues implanted in the peritoneum or under the skin, and peritoneal adipose implants were collected at 2 wk, halved, and either frozen or cultured. Gene-specific reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction was performed to detect and quantify MMP-2, MMP-3, and TIMP-1 mRNA levels. The peritoneal endometriotic implants progressed from avascularized implants, to vascularized red lesions, to well-established encapsulated cysts. In vivo, MMP-3 mRNA was detectable at all times in ectopic tissues but not in eutopic uterine tissues, whereas MMP-2 and TIMP-1 were ubiquitously expressed at all times in both tissues. In vitro, only MMP-3 mRNA levels were elevated in endometrial tissues collected from the intact uterine and from under the skin, at levels similar to in vivo endometriotic implant MMP-3. In conclusion, ectopic endometrial MMP-3 may participate in the process of invasion and tissue remodeling that is hypothesized to occur in the pathogenesis of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- K E Cox
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri 65212, USA
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21
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Abstract
Endometriotic lesions are defined by extrauterine growth of endometrial glands and stroma. Retrograde menstruation with subsequent attachment, invasion, and neovascularization are believed to give rise to the endometriotic lesions. As most women exhibit some degree of retrograde menstruation, some other unidentified factor(s) must render certain women susceptible to attachment and growth of ectopic endometrial tissue. A variety of theories have been proposed to account for this susceptibility, including genetic predisposition, aberrant immunological response, and an altered peritoneal environment. Ectopic endometriotic lesions are histologically similar to their putative eutopic precursors, yet significant biochemical differences exist between these two tissues. Less information is available regarding differences between eutopic endometrium from women with or without endometriosis. This report describes anomalies in structure, proliferation, immune components, adhesion molecules, proteolytic enzymes and inhibitors, steroid and cytokine production and responsiveness, and gene expression and protein production that have been identified in eutopic endometrium from women with endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- K L Sharpe-Timms
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Animal Sciences, University of Missouri-Columbia, 65212, USA.
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Koutsilieris M, Mastrogamvrakis G, Lembessis P, Sourla A, Miligos S, Michalas S. Increased Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 Activity Can Rescue KLE Endometrial-like Cells from Apoptosis. Mol Med 2001. [DOI: 10.1007/bf03401835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
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Abstract
Endometriosis is characterised by the presence of abnormally located tissue resembling the endometrium with glands and stroma. Several hypotheses have attempted to explain the development of such tissue. The most often cited theory, that of implantation, proposes that the physiological phenomenon of endometrial reflux in the fallopian tubes during menstruation may, in certain conditions, overcome local defense mechanisms, implant, and proliferate. The implantation theory does not explain why endometriosis will develop only in approximately 10-15% of women, while the reflux of endometrial tissue via the fallopian tubes during menstruation is a quasi-universal phenomenon. The endometrium of women affected by endometriosis could be abnormal compared with endometrium of healthy women. The abnormal endometrium could be able to protect itself from harmful effects of immune cells by expressing specific antigens, by harbouring a different immune cell population and by synthetizing and secreting immunosuppressive factors. Several others characteristic features of endometrium have been described in women with endometriosis: (1) production of its own estrogens in too heavy amount; (2) aptitude for setting up on peritoneum; (3) tendencies to proliferate and to invade tissue; (4) aggressiveness for the peritoneum; (5) auto-protection from physiological apoptosis; (6) abnormal expression of heat shock proteins; and (7) excessive angiogenesis.
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Somigliana E, Viganò P, Rossi G, Carinelli S, Vignali M, Panina-Bordignon P. Endometrial ability to implant in ectopic sites can be prevented by interleukin-12 in a murine model of endometriosis. Hum Reprod 1999; 14:2944-50. [PMID: 10601076 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/14.12.2944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 159] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune dysfunctions in endometriosis are widely documented but the effectiveness of immunotherapies for the management of the disease is still debated. Progress in this field has also been limited by the lack of an appropriate animal model of the disease. In this study, we created a model of endometriosis in immunocompetent mice to verify the ability of endometrium to implant in ectopic sites and to investigate the potential application of the cytokine interleukin (IL)-12 in preventing this ectopic implantation. Endometriotic lesions were induced in both C57BL/6 and BALB/c mice by inoculating syngenic endometrial fragments through a small laparotomic incision into the peritoneal space. All the animals challenged with syngenic endometrium showed evidence of peritoneal endometriosis at 3 weeks. Histologically, endometriotic lesions consisted of cystic endometrial glands surrounded by a stroma. Intraperitoneal injection of IL-12 was able to reduce total weight and total surface area of endometriotic lesions respectively of 77 and 61% in C57BL/6 and of 42 and 28% in BALB/c mice. These results demonstrate that IL-12 is able to induce a significant prevention of ectopic endometrial implantation in an in-vivo model of endometriosis. These findings support the possibility of using the immune system to generate novel therapies for the management of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Somigliana
- II Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Milano, Italy
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