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Vissers G, Giacomozzi M, Verdurmen W, Peek R, Nap A. The role of fibrosis in endometriosis: a systematic review. Hum Reprod Update 2024:dmae023. [PMID: 39067455 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmae023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fibrosis is an important pathological feature of endometriotic lesions of all subtypes. Fibrosis is present in and around endometriotic lesions, and a central role in its development is played by myofibroblasts, which are cells derived mainly after epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transdifferentiation (FMT). Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) has a key role in this myofibroblastic differentiation. Myofibroblasts deposit extracellular matrix (ECM) and have contracting abilities, leading to a stiff micro-environment. These aspects are hypothesized to be involved in the origin of endometriosis-associated pain. Additionally, similarities between endometriosis-related fibrosis and other fibrotic diseases, such as systemic sclerosis or lung fibrosis, indicate that targeting fibrosis could be a potential therapeutic strategy for non-hormonal therapy for endometriosis. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review aims to summarize the current knowledge and to highlight the knowledge gaps about the role of fibrosis in endometriosis. A comprehensive literature overview about the role of fibrosis in endometriosis can improve the efficiency of fibrosis-oriented research in endometriosis. SEARCH METHODS A systematic literature search was performed in three biomedical databases using search terms for 'endometriosis', 'fibrosis', 'myofibroblasts', 'collagen', and 'α-smooth muscle actin'. Original studies were included if they reported about fibrosis and endometriosis. Both preclinical in vitro and animal studies, as well as research concerning human subjects were included. OUTCOMES Our search yielded 3441 results, of which 142 studies were included in this review. Most studies scored a high to moderate risk of bias according to the bias assessment tools. The studies were divided in three categories: human observational studies, experimental studies with human-derived material, and animal studies. The observational studies showed details about the histologic appearance of fibrosis in endometriosis and the co-occurrence of nerves and immune cells in lesions. The in vitro studies identified several pro-fibrotic pathways in relation to endometriosis. The animal studies mainly assessed the effect of potential therapeutic strategies to halt or regress fibrosis, for example targeting platelets or mast cells. WIDER IMPLICATIONS This review shows the central role of fibrosis and its main cellular driver, the myofibroblast, in endometriosis. Platelets and TGF-β have a pivotal role in pro-fibrotic signaling. The presence of nerves and neuropeptides is closely associated with fibrosis in endometriotic lesions, and is likely a cause of endometriosis-associated pain. The process of fibrotic development after EMT and FMT shares characteristics with other fibrotic diseases, so exploring similarities in endometriosis with known processes in diseases like systemic sclerosis, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis or liver cirrhosis is relevant and a promising direction to explore new treatment strategies. The close relationship with nerves appears rather unique for endometriosis-related fibrosis and is not observed in other fibrotic diseases. REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guus Vissers
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Maddalena Giacomozzi
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Wouter Verdurmen
- Department of Medical BioSciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Ron Peek
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Annemiek Nap
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Zeng Y, Hang F, Peng C, Zhao L, Ou S, Luo L, Liu B. Research progress in rodent models of endometriosis. J Reprod Immunol 2024; 163:104219. [PMID: 38422807 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2024.104219] [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: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a common and frequent disease in gynecology; its etiology and pathogenesis are partially understood and still not clear. The construction of suitable animal models is beneficial for basic research related to the disease. Currently, rodents have the advantages of low cost, fast reproduction, easy rearing, and a similar endometrial structure to humans. Depending on the purpose of the experiment, different molding methods have their advantages. In this paper, we describe the traditional methods of constructing endometriosis rodent models, compare their advantages and disadvantages, and introduce newly developed rodent models, such as cell line injection models, pain models, genetically engineered mouse models, fluorescent tracer models, iron overload models, chemical induction models, and methods of constructing rodent models of different subtypes of endometriosis. Fertility and treatment of endometriosis rodent models are also described. This study provides a reference for researchers in the selection of animal models for pathogenesis and drug treatment studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zeng
- Guangxi Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Fu Hang
- Guangxi Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Chuyu Peng
- Guangxi Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Ling Zhao
- Guangxi Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Shanshan Ou
- Guangxi Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Liumei Luo
- Guangxi Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Bo Liu
- Guangxi Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China.
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Ochoa Bernal MA, Fazleabas AT. The Known, the Unknown and the Future of the Pathophysiology of Endometriosis. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5815. [PMID: 38892003 PMCID: PMC11172035 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25115815] [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: 04/02/2024] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is one of the most common causes of chronic pelvic pain and infertility, affecting 10% of women of reproductive age. A delay of up to 9 years is estimated between the onset of symptoms and the diagnosis of endometriosis. Endometriosis is currently defined as the presence of endometrial epithelial and stromal cells at ectopic sites; however, advances in research on endometriosis have some authors believing that endometriosis should be re-defined as "a fibrotic condition in which endometrial stroma and epithelium can be identified". There are several theories on the etiology of the disease, but the origin of endometriosis remains unclear. This review addresses the role of microRNAs (miRNAs), which are naturally occurring post-transcriptional regulatory molecules, in endometriotic lesion development, the inflammatory environment within the peritoneal cavity, including the role that cytokines play during the development of the disease, and how animal models have helped in our understanding of the pathology of this enigmatic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Ariadna Ochoa Bernal
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA;
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Asgerally T. Fazleabas
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA;
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Zheng H, Liu X, Guo S. Aberrant expression of histone deacetylase 8 in endometriosis and its potential as a therapeutic target. Reprod Med Biol 2023; 22:e12531. [PMID: 37564680 PMCID: PMC10410010 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To screen Zn2+-dependent histone deacetylase (HDAC) 1-11 in endometriotic cells and then evaluated the HDACs identified from the screening in ovarian endometrioma (OE) and deep endometriotic (DE) lesions, and to evaluate the therapeutic potential of HDAC8 inhibition in mice. Methods Quantification of gene and protein expression levels of HDAC1-11 in endometriotic cells stimulated by TGF-β1, and immunohistochemistry analysis of Class I HDACs and HDAC6 in OE/DE lesion samples. The therapeutic potential of HDAC8 inhibition was evaluated by a mouse model of deep endometriosis. Results The screening identified Class I HDACs and HDAC6 as targets of interest. Immunohistochemistry analysis found a significant elevation in HDAC8 immunostaining in both OE and DE lesions, which was corroborated by gene and protein expression quantification. For other Class I HDACs and HDAC6, their lesional expression was more subtle and nuanced. HDAC1 and HDAC6 staining was significantly elevated in DE lesions while HDAC2 and HDAC3 staining was reduced in DE lesions. Treatment of mice with induced deep endometriosis with an HDAC8 inhibitor resulted in significantly longer hotplate latency, a reduction of lesion weight by nearly two-thirds, and significantly reduced lesional fibrosis. Conclusions These findings highlight the progression-dependent nature of specific HDAC aberrations in endometriosis, and demonstrate, for the first titme, the therapeutic potential of suppressing HDAC8.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanxi Zheng
- Department of Gynecology, Shanghai Obstetrics and Gynecology HospitalFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
- Present address:
Center for Human Reproduction and Genetics, Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu SchoolNanjing Medical UniversitySuzhouChina
| | - Xishi Liu
- Department of Gynecology, Shanghai Obstetrics and Gynecology HospitalFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine‐Related DiseasesFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Sun‐Wei Guo
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine‐Related DiseasesFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
- Research Institute, Shanghai Obstetrics and Gynecology HospitalFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
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Myeloid-derived suppressor cells: A new emerging player in endometriosis. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2023; 375:191-220. [PMID: 36967153 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2022.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a common gynecological disorder defined by the presence of endometrial tissue outside the uterus. This is commonly associated with chronic pelvic pain, infertility, and dysmenorrhea, which occurs in approximately 10% of women of reproductive age. Although the exact mechanism remains uncertain, it has been widely accepted to be an estrogen-dependent and inflammatory disease. Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are a heterogeneous group of immune cells with immunosuppressive capacity and non-immunological functions. They have been found to be aggressively involved in the pathologies of various disorders. In regards to tumors, the functions of MDSCs have been profoundly shown to inhibit tumor immune response and to promote angiogenesis, tumor metastasis, fibrosis, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). In recent years, the elevation of MDSCs in endometriosis was reported by several studies that provoke the assumption that MDSCs might exert similar roles to promote the development of endometriosis. Such that, precision treatments targeting MDSCs might be a promising direction for future study. Herein, we will review the research progress of MDSCs in endometriosis and its potential relevance to the pathogenesis, progression, and therapeutics strategy of endometriosis.
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Akarca-Dizakar SÖ, Demirel MA, Coşkun Akçay N, Sipahi M, Karakoç Sökmensüer L, Boyunaga H, Köylü A, Ömeroğlu S. The therapeutic effects of coenzyme Q10 on surgically induced endometriosis in Sprague Dawley rats. J OBSTET GYNAECOL 2022; 42:3290-3298. [PMID: 36048875 DOI: 10.1080/01443615.2022.2114322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of coenzyme Q10 in the treatment of endometriosis rat models. Twenty seven Sprague Dawley rats were divided into four groups; Control Group (n = 7; Endometriosis group), Reference Group (n = 6; Endometriosis + Buserelin acetate, 20 mg/kg), CoQ10 Group-I (n = 7; Endometriosis + CoQ10, 50 mg/kg) and CoQ10 Group-II (n = 7; Endometriosis + CoQ10, 100 mg/kg). At the end of the experiment, all the rats were sacrificed, and the volume and histoarchitecture of endometrial implants were evaluated. The mast cells were determined by Toluidine blue and collagen fiber density was analysed by Masson's Trichrome staining. Tumour necrosis factor and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels were analysed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in peritoneal fluid and VEGF and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) were evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Terminal deoxynucleotidil transferase-mediated dUTP Nick end labelling (TUNEL) was also used for the detection of apoptotic cells. The CoQ10 treatment significantly decreased the volume of endometriotic implants, VEGF, and MMP-9 immunoreactivity and increased TUNEL-positive cells. The findings of the study suggest that CoQ10 can be used in endometriosis treatment by suppressing the endometriotic implants.IMPACT STATEMENTWhat is already known on this subject? Endometriosis is a gynaecological disorder and previous studies have shown that different treatments with antioxidants cause significant regression in the endometriotic implants.What the results of this study add? In this study, CoQ10 reduced intra-abdominal adhesion scores and volume of the endometriotic implants. In addition, CoQ10 treatment affected mast cell, TNF-α, VEGF, and MMP-9.What of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? CoQ10 treatments may be possible to apply, it can contribute to science in terms of a new therapeutic treatment for endometriosis. Further studies are required to evaluate the Coenzyme Q10's effects on pain and subfertility in endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mürşide Ayşe Demirel
- Laboratory Animals Breeding and Experimental Researches Center, Department of Basic Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Neslihan Coşkun Akçay
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Sipahi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Giresun University Faculty of Medicine, Giresun, Turkey
| | - Lale Karakoç Sökmensüer
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Hakan Boyunaga
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Kırıkkale University, Kırıkkale, Turkey
| | - Ayse Köylü
- Department of Histology and Embryology, İstinye University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Suna Ömeroğlu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Gazi University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
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Hao M, Liu X, Guo SW. Activation of α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor retards the development of endometriosis. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2022; 20:85. [PMID: 35658970 PMCID: PMC9166516 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-022-00955-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women with endometriosis have been shown to have a reduced vagal tone as compared with controls and vagotomy promoted while vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) decelerated the progression of endometriosis in mice. Extensive research also has shown that the activation of the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway by VNS activates α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR), potently reducing inflammation. Yet whether α7nAChR plays any role in endometriosis is unknown. We evaluated its expression in normal endometrium, ovarian and deep endometriotic lesions, and evaluated its role in the development of endometriosis. METHODS Immunohistochemistry analyses of α7nAChR in endometriotic lesions as well as control endometrium, and quantification of tissue fibrosis by Masson trichrome staining were performed. Mouse experiments were conducted to evaluate the impact of α7nAChR activation or suppression on lesional progression and possible therapeutic effect. Finally, in vitro experiments were conducted to evaluate the effect of activation of α7nAChR on epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transdifferentiation (FMT), smooth muscle metaplasia (SMM) and fibrogenesis in an endometriotic epithelial cell line and primary endometriotic stromal cells derived from ovarian endometrioma tissue samples. RESULTS Immunostaining of α7nAChR was significantly reduced in human endometriotic epithelial cells as compared with their counterpart in normal endometrium. Lesional α7nAChR staining levels correlated negatively with lesional fibrosis and the severity of dysmenorrhea. The α7nAChR agonist significantly impeded the development of endometriotic lesions in mouse models possibly through hindrance of EMT and FMT. It also demonstrated therapeutic effects in mice with induced deep endometriosis. Treatment of endometriotic epithelial and stromal cells with an α7nAChR agonist significantly abrogated platelet-induced EMT, FMT and SMM, and suppressed cellular contractility and collagen production. CONCLUSIONS α7nAChR is suppressed in endometriotic lesions, and its activation by pharmacological means can impede EMT, FMT, SMM, and fibrogenesis of endometriotic lesions. As such, α7nAChR can be rightfully viewed as a potential target for therapeutic invention. TRIAL REGISTRATION Not applicable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meihua Hao
- Shanghai Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Xishi Liu
- Shanghai Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Sun-Wei Guo
- Shanghai Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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Tetramethylpyrazine Retards the Progression and Fibrogenesis of Endometriosis. Reprod Sci 2022; 29:1170-1187. [PMID: 35099777 PMCID: PMC8907108 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00813-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The development of more efficacious, non-hormonal therapeutics for endometriosis is still an unmet medical need begging to be fulfilled. Growing evidence indicates that endometriotic lesions are wounds undergoing repeated tissue injury and repair, and, as such, platelets play an important role in lesional progression. Tetramethylpyrazine (TMP), a compound derived from a herb that has been used for thousands of years to combat “blood stasis” in traditional Chinese medicine, is a prescription drug in China for the treatment of cerebrovascular disorders. We tested the hypothesis that TMP can decelerate lesional progression through arresting epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transdifferentiation (FMT), and fibrogenesis. We found in our in vitro experiments that TMP treatment suppresses platelet-induced EMT, FMT, cellular contractility, and collagen production in a concentration-dependent manner. We also showed that in a mouse model of endometriosis, treatment with TMP significantly reduced lesion weight and the extent of lesional fibrosis and improved hyperalgesia, mostly likely through the reduction of lesional aggregation of platelets and the lesional expression of markers of EMT, FMT, and fibrogenesis. In light of our results and in view of its excellent safety profiles, TMP appears to be a promising drug candidate for treating endometriosis.
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Burns KA, Pearson AM, Slack JL, Por ED, Scribner AN, Eti NA, Burney RO. Endometriosis in the Mouse: Challenges and Progress Toward a ‘Best Fit’ Murine Model. Front Physiol 2022; 12:806574. [PMID: 35095566 PMCID: PMC8794744 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.806574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a prevalent gynecologic condition associated with pelvic pain and infertility characterized by the implantation and growth of endometrial tissue displaced into the pelvis via retrograde menstruation. The mouse is a molecularly well-annotated and cost-efficient species for modeling human disease in the therapeutic discovery pipeline. However, as a non-menstrual species with a closed tubo-ovarian junction, the mouse poses inherent challenges as a preclinical model for endometriosis research. Over the past three decades, numerous murine models of endometriosis have been described with varying degrees of fidelity in recapitulating the essential pathophysiologic features of the human disease. We conducted a search of the peer-reviewed literature to identify publications describing preclinical research using a murine model of endometriosis. Each model was reviewed according to a panel of ideal model parameters founded on the current understanding of endometriosis pathophysiology. Evaluated parameters included method of transplantation, cycle phase and type of tissue transplanted, recipient immune/ovarian status, iterative schedule of transplantation, and option for longitudinal lesion assessment. Though challenges remain, more recent models have incorporated innovative technical approaches such as in vivo fluorescence imaging and novel hormonal preparations to overcome the unique challenges posed by murine anatomy and physiology. These models offer significant advantages in lesion development and readout toward a high-fidelity mouse model for translational research in endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine A. Burns
- Department of Environmental and Public Health Sciences, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States
- *Correspondence: Katherine A. Burns,
| | - Amelia M. Pearson
- Department of Environmental and Public Health Sciences, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Jessica L. Slack
- Department of Clinical Investigation, Madigan Army Medical Center, Tacoma, WA, United States
| | - Elaine D. Por
- Department of Clinical Investigation, Madigan Army Medical Center, Tacoma, WA, United States
| | - Alicia N. Scribner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Madigan Army Medical Center, Tacoma, WA, United States
| | - Nazmin A. Eti
- Department of Environmental and Public Health Sciences, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Richard O. Burney
- Department of Clinical Investigation, Madigan Army Medical Center, Tacoma, WA, United States
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Madigan Army Medical Center, Tacoma, WA, United States
- Richard O. Burney,
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Xu C, Bao M, Fan X, Huang J, Zhu C, Xia W. EndMT: New findings on the origin of myofibroblasts in endometrial fibrosis of intrauterine adhesions. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2022; 20:9. [PMID: 34996477 PMCID: PMC8739974 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-022-00887-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intrauterine adhesion (IUA) is one of the leading causes of infertility and the main clinical challenge is the high recurrence rate. The key to solving this dilemma lies in elucidating the mechanisms of endometrial fibrosis. The aim of our team is to study the mechanism underlying intrauterine adhesion fibrosis and the origin of fibroblasts in the repair of endometrial fibrosis. METHODS Our experimental study involving an animal model of intrauterine adhesion and detection of fibrosis-related molecules. The levels of molecular factors related to the endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) were examined in a rat model of intrauterine adhesion using immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, qPCR and Western blot analyses. Main outcome measures are levels of the endothelial marker CD31 and the mesenchymal markers alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and vimentin. RESULTS Immunofluorescence co-localization of CD31 and a-SMA showed that 14 days after moulding, double positive cells for CD31 and a-SMA could be clearly observed in the endometrium. Decreased CD31 levels and increased α-SMA and vimentin levels indicate that EndMT is involved in intrauterine adhesion fibrosis. CONCLUSIONS Endothelial cells promote the emergence of fibroblasts via the EndMT during the endometrial fibrosis of intrauterine adhesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengcheng Xu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430030, Wuhan, China
| | - Meng Bao
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430030, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaorong Fan
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430030, Wuhan, China
| | - Jin Huang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430030, Wuhan, China
| | - Changhong Zhu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430030, Wuhan, China.
| | - Wei Xia
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430030, Wuhan, China.
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Benagiano G, Guo S. Age-dependent phenotypes of ovarian endometriomas. Reprod Med Biol 2022; 21:e12438. [PMID: 35386381 PMCID: PMC8967305 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To analyze the characteristics of the ovarian endometrioma (OE) across the life span of a woman. In the past, the OE has traditionally been viewed as a single, monolithic disease. Today, there are emerging data indicating that OE phenotypes differ according to the age of the woman. Method A narrative review of original articles on OE indexed by PubMed. Results When appearing in infancy and early adolescence, OE may be the consequence of endometrial cells retrogradely shed with neonatal uterine bleeding. The post-menarcheal variant, manifesting itself during full adolescence, is singularly frequent in the presence of vaginal or uterine outflow obstructive anomalies. The typical and most frequent adult phenotype is characterized by increasing fibrosis and a tendency to progress; its mere presence exerts a detrimental effect on the surrounding healthy ovarian tissue. In postmenopause, an old lesion may be reactivated in the presence of exogenous or endogenous estrogens, or even be produced ex novo; rarely, it can spread to a variety of organs and structures and even degenerate causing malignancies. Conclusions Given the existence of these variants, it is important to agree on management guidelines that take into consideration these different phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sun‐Wei Guo
- Shanghai Obstetrics and Gynecology HospitalFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
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12
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Huang Q, Liu X, Guo SW. Changing prostaglandin E2 (PGE 2) signaling during lesional progression and exacerbation of endometriosis by inhibition of PGE 2 receptor EP2 and EP4. Reprod Med Biol 2021; 21:e12426. [PMID: 34938150 PMCID: PMC8660993 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose We investigated the change, if any, in prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) signaling in endometriotic lesions of different developmental stages in mouse. In addition, we evaluated the effect of treatment of mice with induced deep endometriosis (DE) with inhibitors of PGE2 receptor subtypes EP2 and EP4 and metformin. Methods Three mouse experimentations were conducted. In Experiment 1, female Balb/C mice were induced with endometriosis or DE and were serially sacrificed after induction. Experiments 2 and 3 evaluated the effect of treatment with EP2 and EP4 inhibitors and metformin, respectively, in mice with induced DE. Immunohistochemistry analysis of COX-2, EP2, and EP4, along with the extent of lesional fibrosis, was evaluated. Results The immunostaining of COX-2, EP2, and EP4 turned from activation to a stall as lesions progressed. Treatment with EP2/EP4 inhibitors in DE mice exacerbated endometriosis-associated hyperalgesia and promoted fibrogenesis in lesions even though it suppressed the PGE2 signaling dose-dependently. In contrast, treatment with metformin resulted in increased PGE2 signaling, concomitant with improved hyperalgesia, and retarded lesional fibrogenesis. Conclusions The PGE2 signaling diminishes as endometriotic lesions progress. Treatment with EP2/EP4 inhibitors in DE mice exacerbates endometriosis, but metformin appears to be promising seemingly through the induction of the PGE2 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingqing Huang
- Shanghai OB/GYN Hospital Fudan University Shanghai China.,Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University Guangzhou China
| | - Xishi Liu
- Shanghai OB/GYN Hospital Fudan University Shanghai China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases Fudan University Shanghai China
| | - Sun-Wei Guo
- Shanghai OB/GYN Hospital Fudan University Shanghai China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases Fudan University Shanghai China
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Dorning A, Dhami P, Panir K, Hogg C, Park E, Ferguson GD, Hargrove D, Karras J, Horne AW, Greaves E. Bioluminescent imaging in induced mouse models of endometriosis reveals differences in four model variations. Dis Model Mech 2021; 14:dmm049070. [PMID: 34382636 PMCID: PMC8419713 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.049070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Our understanding of the aetiology and pathophysiology of endometriosis remains limited. Disease modelling in the field is problematic as many versions of induced mouse models of endometriosis exist. We integrated bioluminescent imaging of 'lesions' generated using luciferase-expressing donor mice. We compared longitudinal bioluminescence and histology of lesions, sensory behaviour of mice with induced endometriosis and the impact of the gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist Cetrorelix on lesion regression and sensory behaviour. Four models of endometriosis were tested. We found that the nature of the donor uterine material was a key determinant of how chronic the lesions were, as well as their cellular composition. The severity of pain-like behaviour also varied across models. Although Cetrorelix significantly reduced lesion bioluminescence in all models, it had varying impacts on pain-like behaviour. Collectively, our results demonstrate key differences in the progression of the 'disease' across different mouse models of endometriosis. We propose that validation and testing in multiple models, each of which may be representative of the different subtypes/heterogeneity observed in women, should become a standard approach to discovery science in the field of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Dorning
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Priya Dhami
- Centre for Early Life, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK
| | - Kavita Panir
- Centre for Early Life, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK
| | - Chloe Hogg
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Emma Park
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Gregory D. Ferguson
- Ferring Research Institute, 4245 Sorrento Valley Blvd, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Diane Hargrove
- Ferring Research Institute, 4245 Sorrento Valley Blvd, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - James Karras
- Ferring Research Institute, 4245 Sorrento Valley Blvd, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Andrew W. Horne
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Erin Greaves
- Centre for Early Life, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK
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14
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Nonsurgical mouse model of endometriosis-associated pain that responds to clinically active drugs. Pain 2021; 161:1321-1331. [PMID: 32132396 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000001832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent inflammatory disease that affects approximately 10% of women. Debilitating pelvic or abdominal pain is one of its major clinical features. Current animal models of endometriosis-associated pain require surgery either to implant tissue or to remove the ovaries. Moreover, existing models do not induce spontaneous pain, which is the primary symptom of patients with chronic pain, including endometriosis. A lack of models that accurately recapitulate the disease phenotype must contribute to the high failure rate of clinical trials for analgesic drugs directed at chronic pain, including those for endometriosis. We set out to establish a murine model of endometriosis-associated pain. Endometriosis was induced nonsurgically by injecting a dissociated uterine horn into a recipient mouse. The induced lesions exhibited histological features that resemble human lesions along with an increase in proinflammatory cytokines and recruitment of immune cells. We also observed the presence of calcitonin gene-related peptide-, TRPA1-, and TRPV1-expressing nerve fibers in the lesions. This model induced mechanical allodynia, spontaneous abdominal pain, and changes in thermal selection behavior that indicate discomfort. These behavioral changes were reduced by drugs used clinically for endometriosis, specifically letrozole (aromatase inhibitor) and danazol (androgen). Endometriosis also induced neuronal changes as evidenced by activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway in TRPA1- and TRPV1-expressing dorsal root ganglion neurons. In conclusion, we have established a model of endometriosis-associated pain that responds to clinically active drugs and can, therefore, be used to identify novel therapies.
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15
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Cordaro M, Trovato Salinaro A, Siracusa R, D’Amico R, Impellizzeri D, Scuto M, Ontario ML, Interdonato L, Crea R, Fusco R, Cuzzocrea S, Di Paola R, Calabrese V. Hidrox ® and Endometriosis: Biochemical Evaluation of Oxidative Stress and Pain. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:720. [PMID: 34064310 PMCID: PMC8147870 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10050720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a gynecological and painful condition affecting women of reproductive age. It is characterized by dysfunctional endometrium-like implants outside of the uterine cavity. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of Hidrox®, an aqueous extract of olive pulp containing hydroxytyrosol, on endometriotic lesions associated with pro-oxidative alterations and pain-like behaviors. Endometriosis was induced by intraperitoneal injection of uterine fragments, and Hidrox® was administered daily. At the end of the 14-day treatment, behavioral alterations were assessed and hippocampal tissues were collected. Laparotomy was performed, and the endometrial implants were harvested for histological and biochemical analysis. Hidrox® treatment reduced endometriotic implant area, diameter and volumes. Vehicle-treated rats showed lesional fibrosis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition and fibroblast-myofibroblast transdifferentiation, angiogenesis and pro-oxidative alterations in the peritoneal cavity. Hidrox® treatment reduced the aniline blue-stained area, α-smooth muscle actin (α-sma) and CD34 positive expressions. Moreover, it reduced mast cell recruitment into the lesions, myeloperoxidase activity and lipid peroxidation and increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and glutathione levels in the endometrial explants. In the peritoneal fluid, Hidrox® treatment reduced interleukin (IL)-1β, IL2, IL6, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and vascular endothelial grow factor (VEGF) levels increased by the disease. Hidrox® administration also reduced peripheral and visceral sensibility as shown by the behavioral tests (open field test, hot plate test, elevated plus maze test and acetic-acid-induced abdominal contractions). Animals treated with Hidrox® also showed reduced blood-brain barrier permeability and mast cell infiltration in the hippocampus, as well as astrocyte and microglia activation and brain oxidative status restoring brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) protein expression and increasing Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nfr2) nuclear translocation. In conclusion, Hidrox® displayed potential ameliorative effects on endometriotic implants and related pain-induced behaviors due to its potent antioxidative properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marika Cordaro
- Department of Biomedical, Dental and Morphological and Functional Imaging University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 98125 Messina, Italy; (M.C.); (R.D.P.); (V.C.)
| | - Angela Trovato Salinaro
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy; (A.T.S.); (M.S.); (M.L.O.)
| | - Rosalba Siracusa
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, 98166 Messina, Italy; (R.S.); (R.D.); (D.I.); (L.I.)
| | - Ramona D’Amico
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, 98166 Messina, Italy; (R.S.); (R.D.); (D.I.); (L.I.)
| | - Daniela Impellizzeri
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, 98166 Messina, Italy; (R.S.); (R.D.); (D.I.); (L.I.)
| | - Maria Scuto
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy; (A.T.S.); (M.S.); (M.L.O.)
| | - Maria Laura Ontario
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy; (A.T.S.); (M.S.); (M.L.O.)
| | - Livia Interdonato
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, 98166 Messina, Italy; (R.S.); (R.D.); (D.I.); (L.I.)
| | - Roberto Crea
- Oliphenol LLC., 26225 Eden Landing Road, Unit C, Hayward, CA 94545, USA;
| | - Roberta Fusco
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, 98166 Messina, Italy; (R.S.); (R.D.); (D.I.); (L.I.)
| | - Salvatore Cuzzocrea
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, 98166 Messina, Italy; (R.S.); (R.D.); (D.I.); (L.I.)
| | - Rosanna Di Paola
- Department of Biomedical, Dental and Morphological and Functional Imaging University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 98125 Messina, Italy; (M.C.); (R.D.P.); (V.C.)
| | - Vittorio Calabrese
- Department of Biomedical, Dental and Morphological and Functional Imaging University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 98125 Messina, Italy; (M.C.); (R.D.P.); (V.C.)
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16
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Reduced vagal tone in women with endometriosis and auricular vagus nerve stimulation as a potential therapeutic approach. Sci Rep 2021; 11:1345. [PMID: 33446725 PMCID: PMC7809474 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-79750-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Sensory and sympathetic nerves have been shown to promote the progression of endometriosis through the release of neuromediators and the lesional activation of respective receptors. The role of vagus nerves (VN) in lesional progression, however, is completely unclear, despite the signs suggestive of increased sympathetic tone in women with endometriosis. This study was undertaken to investigate whether VN plays any role in the progression of endometriosis. We recruited 45 patients with endometriosis and 42 healthy women, who were given electrocardiogram test and their heart rate variability was evaluated. In addition, three prospective, and randomized mouse experiments were conducted that evaluated, respectively, the effect of vagotomy, the effect of VN stimulation (VNS), and the therapeutic potential of VNS after the endometriosis was well established. All lesions were excised, weighed, and processed for immunohistochemistry and histochemistry analysis of select markers for lesional progression and fibrosis. We found that endometriosis patients exhibited reduced vagal activity as compared with controls, indicative of disrupted autonomic balance. Vagotomy increased while VNS decreased the lesion weight as compared with control mice, concomitant with more progressive and retarded lesion development and fibrogenesis, respectively. In addition, VNS demonstrated promising therapeutic effect, as evidenced by significantly reduced lesion weight, more attenuated lesional progression concomitant with improved hyperalgesia. Taken together, our data indicate that VN activity may play a dampening role in the progression of endometriosis. Consequently, boosting the VN activity may have therapeutic potentials for patients with endometriosis.
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17
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Guo SW. Cancer-associated mutations in endometriosis: shedding light on the pathogenesis and pathophysiology. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 26:423-449. [PMID: 32154564 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmz047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Revised: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometriosis is a benign gynaecological disease. Thus, it came as a complete surprise when it was reported recently that the majority of deep endometriosis lesions harbour somatic mutations and a sizeable portion of them contain known cancer-associated mutations (CAMs). Four more studies have since been published, all demonstrating the existence of CAMs in different subtypes of endometriosis. While the field is still evolving, the confirmation of CAMs has raised many questions that were previously overlooked. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE A comprehensive overview of CAMs in endometriosis has been produced. In addition, with the recently emerged understanding of the natural history of endometriotic lesions as well as CAMs in normal and apparently healthy tissues, this review attempts to address the following questions: Why has there been such a wild discrepancy in reported mutation frequencies? Why does ectopic endometrium have a higher mutation rate than that of eutopic endometrium? Would the presence of CAMs in endometriotic lesions increase the risk of cancer to the bearers? Why do endometriotic epithelial cells have much higher mutation frequencies than their stromal counterpart? What clinical implications, if any, do the CAMs have for the bearers? Do these CAMs tell us anything about the pathogenesis and/or pathophysiology of endometriosis? SEARCH METHODS The PubMed database was searched, from its inception to September 2019, for all papers in English using the term 'endometriosis and CAM', 'endometriosis and cancer-driver mutation', 'somatic mutations', 'fibrosis', 'fibrosis and epigenetic', 'CAMs and tumorigenesis', 'somatic mutation and normal tissues', 'oestrogen receptor and fibrosis', 'oxidative stress and fibrosis', 'ARID1A mutation', and 'Kirsten rat sarcoma mutation and therapeutics'. All retrieved papers were read and, when relevant, incorporated into the review results. OUTCOMES Seven papers that identified CAMs in endometriosis using various sequencing methods were retrieved, and their results were somewhat different. Yet, it is apparent that those using microdissection techniques and more accurate sequencing methods found more CAMs, echoing recent discoveries that apparently healthy tissues also harbour CAMs as a result of the replicative aging process. Hence endometriotic lesions, irrespective of subtype, if left intact, would generate CAMs as part of replicative aging, oxidative stress and perhaps other factors yet to be identified and, in some rare cases, develop cancer. The published data still are unable to paint a clear picture on pathogenesis of endometriosis. However, since endometriotic epithelial cells have a higher turnover than their stromal counterpart due to cyclic bleeding, and since the endometriotic stromal component can be formed by refresh influx of mesenchymal cells through epithelial-mesenchymal transition, endothelial-mesenchymal transition, mesothelial-mesenchymal transition and other processes as well as recruitment of bone-marrow-derived stem cells and outflow due to smooth muscle metaplasia, endometriotic epithelial cells have much higher mutation frequencies than their stromal counterpart. The epithelial and stromal cellular components develop in a dependent and co-evolving manner. Genes involved in CAMs are likely to be active players in lesional fibrogenesis, and hyperestrogenism and oxidative stress are likely drivers of both CAMs and fibrogenesis. Finally, endometriotic lesions harbouring CAMs would conceivably be more refractory to medical treatment, due, in no small part, to their high fibrotic content and reduced vascularity and cellularity. WIDER IMPLICATIONS The accumulating data on CAMs in endometriosis have shed new light on the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of endometriosis. They also suggest new challenges in management. The distinct yet co-evolving developmental trajectories of endometriotic stroma and epithelium underscore the importance of the lesional microenvironment and ever-changing cellular identity. Mutational profiling of normal endometrium from women of different ages and reproductive history is needed in order to gain a deeper understanding of the pathogenesis. Moreover, one area that has conspicuously received scant attention is the epigenetic landscape of ectopic, eutopic and normal endometrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun-Wei Guo
- Shanghai Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Shanghai 200011, China
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18
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Yan D, Liu X, Xu H, Guo SW. Mesothelial Cells Participate in Endometriosis Fibrogenesis Through Platelet-Induced Mesothelial-Mesenchymal Transition. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2020; 105:5894452. [PMID: 32813013 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgaa550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT While fibrosis in endometriosis has recently loomed prominently, the sources of myofibroblasts, the principal effector cell in fibrotic diseases, remain largely obscure. Mesothelial cells (MCs) can be converted into myofibroblasts through mesothelial-mesenchymal transition (MMT) in many fibrotic diseases and adhesion. OBJECTIVE To evaluate whether MCs contribute to the progression and fibrogenesis in endometriosis through MMT. SETTING, DESIGN, PATIENTS, INTERVENTION, AND MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Dual immunofluorescence staining and immunohistochemistry using antibodies against calretinin, Wilms' tumor-1 (WT-1), and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) were performed on lesion samples from 30 patients each with ovarian endometrioma (OE) and deep endometriosis (DE), and 30 normal endometrial (NE) tissue samples. Human pleural and peritoneal MCs were co-cultured with activated platelets or control medium with and without neutralization of transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) and/or platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR) and their morphology, proliferation, and expression levels of genes and proteins known to be involved in MMT were evaluated, along with their migratory and invasive propensity, contractility, and collagen production. RESULTS The number of calretinin/WT-1 and α-SMA dual-positive fibroblasts in OE/DE lesions was significantly higher than NE samples. The extent of lesional fibrosis correlated positively with the lesional α-SMA staining levels. Human MCs co-cultured with activated platelets acquire a morphology suggestive of MMT, concomitant with increased proliferation, loss of calretinin expression, and marked increase in expression of mesenchymal markers. These changes coincided with functional differentiation as reflected by increased migratory and invasive capacity, contractility, and collagen production. Neutralization of TGF-β1 and PDGFR signaling abolished platelet-induced MMT in MCs. CONCLUSIONS MCs contribute to lesional progression and fibrosis through platelet-induced MMT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dingmin Yan
- Shanghai OB/GYN Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xishi Liu
- Shanghai OB/GYN Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Sun-Wei Guo
- Shanghai OB/GYN Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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19
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Hayashi S, Nakamura T, Motooka Y, Ito F, Jiang L, Akatsuka S, Iwase A, Kajiyama H, Kikkawa F, Toyokuni S. Novel ovarian endometriosis model causes infertility via iron-mediated oxidative stress in mice. Redox Biol 2020; 37:101726. [PMID: 32961443 PMCID: PMC7509075 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2020.101726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Revised: 09/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian endometriosis (OE) provides women of reproductive age with not only severe menstrual pain but also infertility and an increased risk for ovarian carcinogenesis. Whereas peritoneal endometriosis models have been developed with syngeneic implantation of minced uterine tissue and oncogenic K-ras allele with conditional Pten deletion within ovarian surface epithelium generated preneoplastic endometrial glandular morphology, followed by endometrioid adenocarcinoma, there has been no mouse model of OE similar to human counterparts, applicable to preclinical studies. Here we for the first time established a murine OE model that reveals infertility, and evaluated the involvement of iron catalyzed oxidative stress in the pathogenesis. Minced uterine tissue from female mice was implanted on ovarian surface of syngeneic mice after bursectomy to induce OE. Ectopic growth of endometrium was observed in association with ovary 4 weeks after implantation in 85.7% (12/14) of the operated mice with our protocol. Endometriotic lesions involved intestine, pancreas and peritoneal wall. Fibrosis around the ovary was prominent and increased time-dependently in the OE group. Iron accumulation was significantly increased in the OE group, leading to oxidative stress in each stage of the follicles as evaluated by 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal-modified proteins and 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine. Expression of follicle stimulating hormone receptor in the follicles revealed a significant decrease during pre-antral, antral and pre-ovulatory phases in the OE group. Finally, the number of pups was significantly reduced in the OE group in comparison to the controls. This model affords an opportunity to evaluate agents or procedures to counteract ovarian endometriosis in the preclinical settings. We for the first time established a murine ovarian endometriosis model via bursectomy. Ovarian endometriosis induced iron catalyzed oxidative stress in ovarian follicles. This ovarian endometriosis model reveals infertility and is applicable to preclinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shotaro Hayashi
- Department of Pathology and Biological Responses, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-Ku, Nagoya, 466-8550, Japan; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-Ku, Nagoya, 466-8550, Japan
| | - Tomoko Nakamura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-Ku, Nagoya, 466-8550, Japan
| | - Yashiro Motooka
- Department of Pathology and Biological Responses, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-Ku, Nagoya, 466-8550, Japan
| | - Fumiya Ito
- Department of Pathology and Biological Responses, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-Ku, Nagoya, 466-8550, Japan
| | - Li Jiang
- Department of Pathology and Biological Responses, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-Ku, Nagoya, 466-8550, Japan
| | - Shinya Akatsuka
- Department of Pathology and Biological Responses, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-Ku, Nagoya, 466-8550, Japan
| | - Akira Iwase
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gunma University School of Medicine, 3-39-22, Showa-machi, Maebashi, 371-8511, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Kajiyama
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-Ku, Nagoya, 466-8550, Japan
| | - Fumitaka Kikkawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-Ku, Nagoya, 466-8550, Japan
| | - Shinya Toyokuni
- Department of Pathology and Biological Responses, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-Ku, Nagoya, 466-8550, Japan; Center for Low Temperature Plasma Sciences, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa, Nagoya, 484-8601, Japan; Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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20
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Xu Z, Zhang L, Yu Q, Zhang Y, Yan L, Chen ZJ. The estrogen-regulated lncRNA H19/miR-216a-5p axis alters stromal cell invasion and migration via ACTA2 in endometriosis. Mol Hum Reprod 2020; 25:550-561. [PMID: 31323679 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaz040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2019] [Revised: 06/27/2019] [Accepted: 07/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrotic tissue may contribute to the origin of some endometriosis-related symptoms, such as chronic pelvic pain and infertility. Alterations in the H19/miR-216a-5p/ACTA2 pathway may mediate the regulation of eutopic endometrial stromal cell (euESC) invasion and migration and may represent a potential mechanism underlying fibrous tissue formation or fibrosis in women with endometriosis. In this study, we aimed to determine the expression of H19 and ACTA2 in endometrial tissues of women with endometriosis. Two groups of 23 infertile women with endometriosis and 23 matched infertile women without endometriosis were investigated. Primary cultured cells of endometrial tissues were analyzed using RT-PCR and western blotting (WB) to determine expression of H19 and ACTA2. 5-Ethyl-2'-deoxyuridine, CCK8 and Transwell assays were used to study the functions of H19 and ACTA2. Human embryonic kidney 293 cells were used for luciferase assays to study miR-216a-5p binding sites with H19 and ACTA2. We found that H19 and ACTA2 levels were significantly higher in endometriosis euESCs than in control euESCs (P < 0.05) and were positively correlated in endometriosis euESCs. Luciferase assays indicated that H19 regulates ACTA2 expression via competition for inhibitory miR-216a-5p binding sites. Our results indicate that alterations in the estrogen/H19/miR-216a-5p/ACTA2 pathway regulated endometriosis euESC invasion and migration. Downregulation of H19 or ACTA2 inhibited endometriosis euESC invasion and migration; however, estrogen promoted endometriosis euESC invasion and migration via H19. The main limitation of our study was that experiments were conducted in vitro and further in vivo studies are required in the future. However, our study showed that primary cultured cells represented endometriosis cells more clearly than cell lines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Xu
- School of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 Wenhua West Road, Jinan, China.,Reproductive Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology, Shandong University, Ministry of Education, 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, China.,Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, China
| | - Liping Zhang
- School of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 Wenhua West Road, Jinan, China.,Reproductive Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology, Shandong University, Ministry of Education, 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, China.,Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, China
| | - Qian Yu
- School of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 Wenhua West Road, Jinan, China.,Reproductive Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology, Shandong University, Ministry of Education, 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, China.,Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, China
| | - Yanan Zhang
- School of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 Wenhua West Road, Jinan, China.,Reproductive Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology, Shandong University, Ministry of Education, 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, China.,Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, China
| | - Lei Yan
- School of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 Wenhua West Road, Jinan, China.,Reproductive Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology, Shandong University, Ministry of Education, 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, China.,Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, China
| | - Zi-Jiang Chen
- School of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 Wenhua West Road, Jinan, China.,Reproductive Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology, Shandong University, Ministry of Education, 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, China.,Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, China.,Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, 845 Lingshan Road, Shanghai, China
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21
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Luo M, Cai X, Yan D, Liu X, Guo SW. Sodium tanshinone IIA sulfonate restrains fibrogenesis through induction of senescence in mice with induced deep endometriosis. Reprod Biomed Online 2020; 41:373-384. [PMID: 32651107 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2020.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Does sodium tanshinone IIA sulfonate (STS) induce cellular senescence in endometriotic lesions and thus restrict lesional development and fibrogenesis in a recently established mouse model of deep endometriosis? DESIGN Prospective randomized animal experiment in which deep endometriosis was induced in female Balb/C mice, which were then randomly divided into three groups (low-dose STS, high-dose STS and inert vehicle control) and received treatment for 2 weeks. All mice were then sacrificed and their lesions excised and harvested. Lesion weight was quantified and all lesion samples were subjected to histochemical analysis of the extent of lesional fibrosis by Masson trichrome staining, and of cellular senescence by senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal), along with immunohistochemistry analyses of p53, CCN1, activate Salvador 1 (Sav1), hyaluronan synthase 2 (HAS2), survivin, granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) and CD163-positive M2 macrophages. Plasma P-selectin and hyaluronic acid levels were also quantified. Hotplate testing was also administered before the induction, then before and after treatment. RESULTS STS treatment resulted in significantly reduced lesion weight, stalled lesional fibrogenesis and improved hyperalgesia, seemingly through the induction of cellular senescence by activating p53, Sav1 and CCN1 while suppressing HAS2, survivin and GM-CSF, resulting in increased apoptosis and reduced lesional infiltration of alternatively activated macrophages. In addition, STS treatment significantly reduced the plasma concentration of P-selectin and hyaluronic acid, possibly leading to reduced lesional platelet aggregation. CONCLUSIONS STS appears to be a promising compound for treating endometriosis. The results suggest that senescence may restrict lesional progression and fibrogenesis, and targeting the senescence pathway may have desirable therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Luo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ningbo No. 7 Hospital, Ningbo Zhejiang 315200, China; These three authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Xianjun Cai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ningbo No. 7 Hospital, Ningbo Zhejiang 315200, China; These three authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Dingmin Yan
- Shanghai OB/GYN Hospital, Fudan University Shanghai 200090, China; These three authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Xishi Liu
- Shanghai OB/GYN Hospital, Fudan University Shanghai 200090, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Fudan University Shanghai, China
| | - Sun-Wei Guo
- Shanghai OB/GYN Hospital, Fudan University Shanghai 200090, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Fudan University Shanghai, China.
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Yong PJ, Bedaiwy MA, Alotaibi F, Anglesio MS. Pathogenesis of bowel endometriosis. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2020; 71:2-13. [PMID: 32646752 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2020.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2020] [Accepted: 05/05/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The pathogenesis of bowel endometriosis is multifactorial. There is a predilection for disease of the rectum/sigmoid colon because refluxed endometrium is more likely to settle in the pouch of Douglas and its movement is delimited by the sigmoid colon, in addition to the close proximity of the rectum/sigmoid to posterior extrinsic uterine adenomyosis and to ovarian endometriomas. Once situated, deep bowel endometriosis has features of invasion, angiogenesis, and fibrosis (repeated tissue injury and repair), with emerging research on oxidative stress and the microbiome. Furthermore, deep bowel endometriosis is associated with neurogenesis and/or the recruitment of local nerve fibers and is capable of invading existing nerves, which in turn may also promote fibrosis. Recently, somatic cancer driver mutations (e.g., in KRAS) were identified in deep bowel endometriosis, which may play a role in the genetic/epigenetic theory of endometriosis. In the future, it is possible that bowel endometriosis could be classified based on molecular features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul J Yong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia, F2 - 4500 Oak Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6H 3N1, Canada.
| | - Mohamed A Bedaiwy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia, F2 - 4500 Oak Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6H 3N1, Canada.
| | - Fahad Alotaibi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia, F2 - 4500 Oak Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6H 3N1, Canada.
| | - Michael S Anglesio
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia, 275 - 2660 Oak Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6H 3Z6, Canada.
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Bioinformatic analysis reveals the importance of epithelial-mesenchymal transition in the development of endometriosis. Sci Rep 2020; 10:8442. [PMID: 32439908 PMCID: PMC7242372 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-65606-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Endometriosis is a frequently occurring disease in women, which seriously affects their quality of life. However, its etiology and pathogenesis are still unclear. Methods: To identify key genes/pathways involved in the pathogenesis of endometriosis, we recruited 3 raw microarray datasets (GSE11691, GSE7305, and GSE12768) from Gene Expression Omnibus database (GEO), which contain endometriosis tissues and normal endometrial tissues. We then performed in-depth bioinformatic analysis to determine differentially expressed genes (DEGs), followed by gene ontology (GO), Hallmark pathway enrichment and protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis. The findings were further validated by immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining in endometrial tissues from endometriosis or control patients. Results: We identified 186 DEGs, of which 118 were up-regulated and 68 were down-regulated. The most enriched DEGs in GO functional analysis were mainly associated with cell adhesion, inflammatory response, and extracellular exosome. We found that epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) ranked first in the Hallmark pathway enrichment. EMT may potentially be induced by inflammatory cytokines such as CXCL12. IHC confirmed the down-regulation of E-cadherin (CDH1) and up-regulation of CXCL12 in endometriosis tissues. Conclusions: Utilizing bioinformatics and patient samples, we provide evidence of EMT in endometriosis. Elucidating the role of EMT will improve the understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in the development of endometriosis.
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Yan D, Liu X, Xu H, Guo SW. Platelets induce endothelial-mesenchymal transition and subsequent fibrogenesis in endometriosis. Reprod Biomed Online 2020; 41:500-517. [PMID: 32709523 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2020.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2020] [Revised: 03/07/2020] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Do endometriotic lesions undergo endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EndoMT)? DESIGN Lesion samples from 30 patients with ovarian endometriomas and deep endometriosis, and control endometrial tissue samples from 30 women without endometriosis, were analysed. In-vitro experimentation using the human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) line were conducted. Immunofluorescence staining and immunohistochemistry analysis using antibodies against endothelial cell and mesenchymal cell markers were conducted. The HUVEC cells were co-cultured with activated platelets or control medium with and without neutralization of TGF-β1 PDGFR, or both. Their morphology, proliferation and expression levels of genes and proteins known to be involved in EndoMT were evaluated, along with their migratory and invasive propensity, contractility and collagen production capability. RESULTS The proportion of CD31 and FSP-1 dual-positive cells in FSP-1+ fibroblasts was 74.7% (±5.4%) in ovarian endometrioma lesions, significantly higher than that in deep endometriosis lesions (26.8% ± 26.0%; P = 5.7 × 10-5), and was zero in normal endometrium. The extent of lesional fibrosis correlated positively with staining levels of the lesional mesenchymal markers FSP-1 and α-SMA (r = 0.91; P < 2.2 × 10-16, r = 0.81; P = 5.8 × 10-15, respectively). Human endothelial cells co-cultured with activated platelets acquire a morphology suggestive of EndoMT, concomitant with increased proliferation, loss of CD31 but marked increase in expression of mesenchymal markers. Morphological and gene and protein expression changes are accompanied by functional differentiation reflected by increased migratory and invasive capacity, contractility and collagen production. Neutralization of TGF-β1 and PDGFR signalling abolished platelet-induced EndoMT in human endothelial cells. CONCLUSIONS Multiple sources of myofibroblasts exist in endometriotic lesions, and implicates platelets, EndoMT, or both, as potential therapeutic targets for treating endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dingmin Yan
- Shanghai Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Xishi Liu
- Shanghai Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 100045, China
| | - Sun-Wei Guo
- Shanghai Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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25
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Persoons E, De Clercq K, Van den Eynde C, Pinto SJPC, Luyten K, Van Bree R, Tomassetti C, Voets T, Vriens J. Mimicking Sampson's Retrograde Menstrual Theory in Rats: A New Rat Model for Ongoing Endometriosis-Associated Pain. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21072326. [PMID: 32230898 PMCID: PMC7177935 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21072326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a prevalent gynecologic disease, defined by dysfunctional endometrium-like lesions outside of the uterine cavity. These lesions are presumably established via retrograde menstruation, i.e., endometrial tissue that flows backwards during menses into the abdomen and deposits on the organs. As ongoing pain is one of the main pain symptoms of patients, an animal model that illuminates this problem is highly anticipated. In the present study, we developed and validated a rat model for ongoing endometriosis-associated pain. First, menstrual endometrial tissue was successfully generated in donor rats, as validated by gross examination, histology and qPCR. Next, endometriosis was induced in recipient animals by intraperitoneal injection of menstrual tissue. This resulted in neuro-angiogenesis as well as established endometriosis lesions, which were similar to their human counterparts, since epithelial and stromal cells were observed. Furthermore, significant differences were noted between control and endometriosis animals concerning bodyweight and posture changes, indicating the presence of ongoing pain in animals with endometriosis. In summary, a rat model for endometriosis was established that reliably mimics the human pathophysiology of endometriosis and in which signs of ongoing pain were detected, thus providing a new research tool for therapy development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Persoons
- Laboratory of Endometrium, Endometriosis & Reproductive Medicine, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49 box 611, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (E.P.); (K.D.C.); (C.V.d.E.); (K.L.); (R.V.B.); (C.T.)
- Laboratory of Ion Channel Research, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, VIB Center for Brain & Disease Research, Herestraat 49 box 802, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (S.J.P.c.P.); (T.V.)
| | - Katrien De Clercq
- Laboratory of Endometrium, Endometriosis & Reproductive Medicine, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49 box 611, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (E.P.); (K.D.C.); (C.V.d.E.); (K.L.); (R.V.B.); (C.T.)
- Laboratory of Ion Channel Research, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, VIB Center for Brain & Disease Research, Herestraat 49 box 802, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (S.J.P.c.P.); (T.V.)
| | - Charlotte Van den Eynde
- Laboratory of Endometrium, Endometriosis & Reproductive Medicine, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49 box 611, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (E.P.); (K.D.C.); (C.V.d.E.); (K.L.); (R.V.B.); (C.T.)
- Laboratory of Ion Channel Research, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, VIB Center for Brain & Disease Research, Herestraat 49 box 802, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (S.J.P.c.P.); (T.V.)
| | - Sílvia João Poseiro coutinho Pinto
- Laboratory of Ion Channel Research, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, VIB Center for Brain & Disease Research, Herestraat 49 box 802, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (S.J.P.c.P.); (T.V.)
| | - Katrien Luyten
- Laboratory of Endometrium, Endometriosis & Reproductive Medicine, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49 box 611, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (E.P.); (K.D.C.); (C.V.d.E.); (K.L.); (R.V.B.); (C.T.)
| | - Rita Van Bree
- Laboratory of Endometrium, Endometriosis & Reproductive Medicine, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49 box 611, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (E.P.); (K.D.C.); (C.V.d.E.); (K.L.); (R.V.B.); (C.T.)
| | - Carla Tomassetti
- Laboratory of Endometrium, Endometriosis & Reproductive Medicine, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49 box 611, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (E.P.); (K.D.C.); (C.V.d.E.); (K.L.); (R.V.B.); (C.T.)
- Leuven University Fertility Center, University Hospitals Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Thomas Voets
- Laboratory of Ion Channel Research, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, VIB Center for Brain & Disease Research, Herestraat 49 box 802, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (S.J.P.c.P.); (T.V.)
| | - Joris Vriens
- Laboratory of Endometrium, Endometriosis & Reproductive Medicine, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49 box 611, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (E.P.); (K.D.C.); (C.V.d.E.); (K.L.); (R.V.B.); (C.T.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +32-16-32-72-79
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Greaves E, Rosser M, Saunders PTK. Endometriosis-Associated Pain - Do Preclinical Rodent Models Provide a Good Platform for Translation? ADVANCES IN ANATOMY, EMBRYOLOGY, AND CELL BIOLOGY 2020; 232:25-55. [PMID: 33278006 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-51856-1_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Pelvic pain is a common symptom of endometriosis. Our understanding of its etiology remains incomplete and medical management is limited by poor translation from preclinical models to clinical trials. In this review, we briefly consider the evidence, or lack thereof, that different subtypes of lesion, extra-uterine bleeding, and neuropathic pathways add to the complex and heterogeneous pain experience of women with the condition. We summarize the studies in rodent models of endometriosis that have used behavioral endpoints (evoked and non-evoked) to explore mechanisms of endometriosis-associated pain. Lesion innervation, activation of nerves by pronociceptive molecules released by immune cells, and a role for estrogen in modulating hyperalgesia are key endometriosis-associated pain mechanisms replicated in preclinical rodent models. The presence of ectopic (full thickness uterus or endometrial) tissue may be associated with changes in the spinal cord and brain, which appear to model changes reported in patients. While preclinical models using rats and mice have yielded insights that appear relevant to mechanisms responsible for the development of endometriosis-associated pain, they are limited in scope. Specifically, most studies are based on models that only resulted in the formation of superficial lesions and use induced (evoked) behavioral 'pain' tests. We suggest that translation for patient benefit will be improved by new approaches including models of ovarian and deep infiltrating disease and measurement of spontaneous pain behaviors. Future studies must also capitalize on new advances in the wider field of pain medicine to identify more effective treatments for endometriosis-associated pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Greaves
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK.
| | - Matthew Rosser
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Philippa T K Saunders
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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27
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What Have We Learned from Animal Models of Endometriosis and How Can We Use the Knowledge Gained to Improve Treatment of Patients? ADVANCES IN ANATOMY, EMBRYOLOGY, AND CELL BIOLOGY 2020; 232:99-111. [PMID: 33278009 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-51856-1_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a complex disorder with a high socio-economic impact. Development of effective novel drug therapies which can be given to women to relieve chronic pain symptoms without side effects such as hormone suppression is urgently required, but progress has been slow. Several different rodent models of 'endometriosis' have been developed, the majority of which mimic aspects of peritoneal disease (e.g. 'lesions' in peritoneal cavity either surgically or spontaneously attached to wall, mesentery, fat). Results obtained using these models have informed our understanding of aetiology including evidence for differential expression of regulatory factors in lesions and impacts on pain perception and fertility. Refinement of these models to ensure reproducibility, extension of models to replicate ovarian and deep disease, complementary in vitro approaches and robust experimental design are all needed to ensure preclinical drug testing results in positive findings in clinical trials and translation for patient benefit.
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28
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Yan D, Liu X, Guo SW. Neuropeptides Substance P and Calcitonin Gene Related Peptide Accelerate the Development and Fibrogenesis of Endometriosis. Sci Rep 2019; 9:2698. [PMID: 30804432 PMCID: PMC6389969 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-39170-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2018] [Accepted: 01/16/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriotic lesions are known to be hyperinnervated, especially in lesions of deep endometriosis (DE), which are frequently in close proximity to various nerve plexuses. DE lesions typically have higher fibromuscular content than that of ovarian endometriomas (OE) lesions, but the underlying reason remains elusive. Aside from their traditional role of pain transduction, however, whether or not sensory nerves play any role in the development of endometriosis is unclear. Here, we show that, thorough their respective receptors neurokinin receptor 1 (NK1R), calcitonin receptor like receptor (CRLR), and receptor activity modifying protein 1 (RAMP-1), neuropeptides substance P (SP) and calcitonin gene related peptide (CGRP) induce epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transdifferentiation (FMT) and further turn stromal cells into smooth muscle cells (SMCs) in endometriotic lesions, resulting ultimately in fibrosis. We show that SP and CGRP, or the rat dorsal root ganglia (DRG) supernatant, through the induction of NK1R and CGRP/CRLR/RAMP-1 signaling pathways, promoted EMT, FMT and SMM in endometriosis, resulting in increased migratory and invasive propensity, cell contractility, production of collagen, and eventually to fibrosis. Neutralization of NK1R and/or CGRP/CRLR/RAMP-1 abrogated these processes. Extended exposure of endometriotic stromal cells to SP and/or CGRP or the DRG supernatant induced increased expression of α-SMA, desmin, oxytocin receptor, and smooth muscle myosin heavy-chain. Finally, we show that DE lesions had significantly higher nerve fiber density, increased staining levels of α-SMA, NK1R, CRLR, and RAMP-1, concomitant with higher lesional fibrotic content than that of OE lesions. The extent of lesional fibrosis correlated positively with the staining levels of NK1R, CRLR, and RAMP-1, as well as the nerve fiber density in lesions. Thus, this study provides another piece of evidence that sensory nerves play an important role in promoting the development and fibrogenesis of endometriosis. It explains as why DE frequently have higher fibromuscular content than that of OE, highlights the importance of lesional microenvironment in shaping the lesional fate, gives more credence to the idea that ectopic endometrium is fundamentally wounds that go through repeated tissue injury and repair, and should shed much needed light into the pathophysiology of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dingmin Yan
- Shanghai OB/GYN Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Xishi Liu
- Shanghai OB/GYN Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Sun-Wei Guo
- Shanghai OB/GYN Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China. .,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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