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Dai QH, Cai HR, Chen AE. Study on the correlation between endometriosis and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2024; 299:208-212. [PMID: 38889572 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2024.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aims to investigate the correlation between endometriosis (EMS) and adverse obstetric outcomes. METHODS In this retrospective study 2,925 cesarean section cases were analyzed at the Women and Children's Hospital of Ningbo University, Department of Obstetrics, between May 2019 and December 2023. The study included 1,363 women diagnosed with endometriosis during pregnancy at the time of surgery (study group) and 1,562 women without such a diagnosis (control group). The comparative assessment covered the age of first-time mothers, number of pregnancies and births, gestational age at delivery, incidence rates of assisted reproductive technology (ART), spontaneous abortion, preterm birth, placenta previa, placental adhesion, and postpartum hemorrhage. RESULTS The study group demonstrated a higher average age of first-time mothers, fewer pregnancies and births, and a significantly shorter gestational age at delivery (P < 0.05) compared to the control group. Incidences of primary infertility, spontaneous abortion, and ART utilization were higher in the study group. The occurrence of placenta previa, placental adhesion, and postpartum hemorrhage was also higher in the study group, indicating significant statistical differences (P < 0.05). No significant difference was observed in preterm birth rates between the groups (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION Pregnancy in women with endometriosis is associated with a higher likelihood of adverse outcomes, therefore highlighting the need for increased clinical awareness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiao-Hong Dai
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Women and Children's Hospital Affiliated to Ningbo University, Ningbo 315000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Hai-Rui Cai
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Women and Children's Hospital Affiliated to Ningbo University, Ningbo 315000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - An-Er Chen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Women and Children's Hospital Affiliated to Ningbo University, Ningbo 315000, Zhejiang Province, China.
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2
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Park W, Jang H, Kim HS, Park SJ, Lim W, Song G, Park S. Therapeutic efficacy and anti-inflammatory mechanism of baicalein on endometriosis progression in patient-derived cell line and mouse model. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 130:155469. [PMID: 38824821 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.155469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Baicalein is a flavonoid extracted from the roots of Scutellaria baicalensis G. that has anti-inflammatory and antitumor effects. However, therapeutic mechanisms of baicalein in patients with endometriosis in vivo have yet to be elucidated. As a chronic inflammatory gynecological disease, endometriosis causes pain and infertility, and has no complete treatment to date. Current treatment strategies cause several side effects and have high recurrence rates. PURPOSE This study aimed to identify the in vivo therapeutic effects of baicalein on endometriosis and verify the action mechanisms of baicalein, focusing on regulating inflammation. METHODS In this study, an autologous transplant mouse model and patient-derived immortalized human ovarian endometriotic stromal cells (ihOESCs) were used to investigate the therapeutic activities of baicalein. The mouse model was administered with 40 mg/kg baicalein by oral gavage for 4 weeks, and the treatment outcomes of baicalein-treated mice were compared with vehicle- and dienogest-treated groups. ihOESCs were treated with 0-5 μg/ml baicalein for in vitro studies. RESULTS Baicalein significantly alleviated the progression of endometriosis in mouse models. Baicalein reduced the expression of proinflammatory cytokines in endometriotic lesions and ihOESCs, and cytokine expression and T cell proportions in mouse spleen. in vitro results showed that baicalein increased mitochondrial calcium flux and induced mitochondrial depolarization and ROS generation in ihOESCs. Ultimately, baicalein inactivated the MAPK/PI3K signaling and induced cell death in ihOESCs. CONCLUSION In conclusion, baicalein effectively attenuated the progression of endometriosis through its anti-inflammatory activities. Baicalein can be an alternative or supplemental treatment for endometriosis to ameliorate the side effects of hormonal therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wonhyoung Park
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology and Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyewon Jang
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee Seung Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Soo Jin Park
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Whasun Lim
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea.
| | - Gwonhwa Song
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology and Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea.
| | - Sunwoo Park
- Department of Plant & Biomaterials Science, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, 52725, Republic of Korea; Department of GreenBio Science, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, 52725, Republic of Korea.
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Riccio LGC, Andres MP, Dehó IZ, Fontanari GO, Abrão MS. Foxp3 +CD39 +CD73 + regulatory T-cells are decreased in the peripheral blood of women with deep infiltrating endometriosis. Clinics (Sao Paulo) 2024; 79:100390. [PMID: 38781760 PMCID: PMC11145417 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinsp.2024.100390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis's pathophysiology remains incompletely understood, with evidence pointing towards a dysregulated immune response. Regulatory T (Treg) cells, pivotal in maintaining self-tolerance, may facilitate the survival of ectopic endometrial cells within the abdominal cavity, thereby contributing to endometriosis development. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of CD39+CD73+ suppressor Treg cell subsets in the peripheral blood of endometriosis patients. This research focuses on the pivotal role of regulatory T-cells (Tregs), which are essential for maintaining immune tolerance and preventing autoimmune diseases. A case-control study was conducted, including 32 women diagnosed with endometriosis and 22 control subjects. The frequency of peripheral blood CD39+CD73+ suppressor Treg cells was quantified using flow cytometry. No significant differences were observed in the frequency of CD3+CD4+CD25High cells (Median [M]: 10.1; Interquartile Range [IQR]: 6.32‒18.3 vs. M: 9.72; IQR: 6.22-19.8) or CD3+CD4+CD25HighCD39+Foxp3+ cells (M: 31.1; IQR: 19.7-44.0 vs. M: 30.55; IQR: 18.5-45.5) between controls and patients. However, a significantly lower frequency of CD3+CD4+CD25HighCD39+CD73+ cells was observed in the endometriosis group compared to controls (M: 1.98; IQR: 0.0377-3.17 vs. M: 2.25; IQR: 0.50-4.08; p = 0.0483), suggesting a reduction in systemic immune tolerance among these patients. This finding highlights the potential role of CD39 and CD73 expression on Treg cells as biomarkers for assessing disease severity and progression. Furthermore, elucidating the mechanisms driving these alterations may unveil new therapeutic strategies to restore immune equilibrium and mitigate endometriosis symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luiza Gama Coelho Riccio
- Department of Medicine, Universidade de Santo Amaro, São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Gynecological Clinic Division, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo (HCFMUSP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Marina Paula Andres
- Gynecological Clinic Division, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo (HCFMUSP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil; BP - Hospital Beneficência Portuguesa de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | | | | | - Maurício Simões Abrão
- Gynecological Clinic Division, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo (HCFMUSP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil; BP - Hospital Beneficência Portuguesa de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
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Knez J, Kovačič B, Goropevšek A. The role of regulatory T-cells in the development of endometriosis. Hum Reprod 2024:deae103. [PMID: 38756099 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deae103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a benign disease of the female reproductive tract, characterized by the process of chronic inflammation and alterations in immune response. It is estimated to affect 2-19% of women in the general population and is commonly associated with symptoms of chronic pelvic pain and infertility. Regulatory T cells (Treg) are a subpopulation of T lymphocytes that are potent suppressors of inflammatory immune response, essential in preventing destructive immunity in all tissues. In endometriosis, several studies have investigated the possible role of Treg cells in the development of the disease. Most studies to date are heterogeneous in methodology and are based on a small number of cases, which means that it is impossible to define their exact role at present. Based on current knowledge, it seems that disturbed Treg homeostasis, leading to increased systemic and local inflammation within ectopic and eutopic endometrium, is present in women who eventually develop endometriosis. It is also evident that different subsets of human Treg cells have different roles in suppressing the immune response. Recent studies in patients with endometriosis have investigated naive/resting FOXP3lowCD45RA+ Treg cells, which upon T cell receptor stimulation, differentiate into activated/effector FOXP3highCD45RA- Treg cells, characterized by a strong immunosuppressive activity. In addition, critical factors controlling expression of Treg/effector genes, including reactive oxygen species and heme-responsive master transcription factor BACH2, were found to be upregulated in endometriotic lesions. As shown recently for cancer microenvironments, microbial inflammation may also contribute to the local composition of FOXP3+ subpopulations in endometriotic lesions. Furthermore, cytokines, such as IL-7, which control the homeostasis of Treg subsets through the tyrosine phosphorylation STAT5 signalling pathway, have also been shown to be dysregulated. To better understand the role of Treg in the development of endometriosis, future studies should use clear definitions of Tregs along with specific characterization of the non-Treg (FOXP3lowCD45RA-) fraction, which itself is a mixture of follicular Tregs and cells producing inflammatory cytokines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jure Knez
- Clinic for Gynaecology, Department for Gynaecological Oncology, University Medical Centre Maribor, Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Borut Kovačič
- Clinic for Gynaecology, Department for Reproductive Medicine, University Medical Centre Maribor, Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Aleš Goropevšek
- Department of Laboratory Diagnostics, University Medical Centre Maribor, Maribor, Slovenia
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Sisnett DJ, Zutautas KB, Miller JE, Lingegowda H, Ahn SH, McCallion A, Bougie O, Lessey BA, Tayade C. The Dysregulated IL-23/TH17 Axis in Endometriosis Pathophysiology. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2024; 212:1428-1441. [PMID: 38466035 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2400018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disease in which endometrial-like tissue grows ectopically, resulting in pelvic pain and infertility. IL-23 is a key contributor in the development and differentiation of TH17 cells, driving TH17 cells toward a pathogenic profile. In a variety of inflammatory and autoimmune disorders, TH17 cells secrete proinflammatory cytokines, including IL-17, contributing to disease pathophysiology. Our studies and others have implicated IL-17 and TH17 cell dysregulation in endometriosis, which is associated with disease severity. In this article, we address whether IL-23-driven TH17 cells contribute to cardinal features of lesion proliferation, vascularization, and inflammation in endometriosis using patient samples, representative cell lines, and our established mouse model of endometriosis. The results indicated dysregulated expression of key genes in the IL-23/TH17 axis in patient ectopic and eutopic endometrial samples and increased IL-23 protein in patient plasma compared with controls. In vitro studies using primary human TH cells determined that rIL-23 mixture treatment increased pathogenic TH17 cell frequency. Similarly, rIL-23 treatment of cell lines (12Z cells, EECCs, HUVECs, and hESCs) representative of the endometriotic lesion microenvironment increased cytokines and growth factors, which play a role in lesion establishment and maintenance. In a syngeneic mouse model of endometriosis, rIL-23 treatment altered numbers of myeloid and T cell subsets in peritoneal fluid and increased giant cells within the lesion. Lesions from rIL-23-treated mice did not reveal significant alterations in proliferation/vascularization, although trends of increased proliferation and vascularization were observed. Collectively, these findings provide insights into the impact of the IL-23/TH17 axis on local immune dysfunction and broadly on endometriosis pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle J Sisnett
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Katherine B Zutautas
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Jessica E Miller
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | | | - Soo Hyun Ahn
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Alison McCallion
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Olga Bougie
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Kingston Health Sciences Centre, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Bruce A Lessey
- School of Medicine, Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, NC
| | - Chandrakant Tayade
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
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6
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Oskotsky TT, Bhoja A, Bunis D, Le BL, Tang AS, Kosti I, Li C, Houshdaran S, Sen S, Vallvé-Juanico J, Wang W, Arthurs E, Govil A, Mahoney L, Lang L, Gaudilliere B, Stevenson DK, Irwin JC, Giudice LC, McAllister SL, Sirota M. Identifying therapeutic candidates for endometriosis through a transcriptomics-based drug repositioning approach. iScience 2024; 27:109388. [PMID: 38510116 PMCID: PMC10952035 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109388] [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: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Existing medical treatments for endometriosis-related pain are often ineffective, underscoring the need for new therapeutic strategies. In this study, we applied a computational drug repurposing pipeline to stratified and unstratified disease signatures based on endometrial gene expression data to identify potential therapeutics from existing drugs, based on expression reversal. Of 3,131 unique genes differentially expressed by at least one of six endometriosis signatures, only 308 (9.8%) were in common; however, 221 out of 299 drugs identified, (73.9%) were shared. We selected fenoprofen, an uncommonly prescribed NSAID that was the top therapeutic candidate for further investigation. When testing fenoprofen in an established rat model of endometriosis, fenoprofen successfully alleviated endometriosis-associated vaginal hyperalgesia, a surrogate marker for endometriosis-related pain. These findings validate fenoprofen as a therapeutic that could be utilized more frequently for endometriosis and suggest the utility of the aforementioned computational drug repurposing approach for endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomiko T. Oskotsky
- Bakar Computational Health Sciences Institute, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Arohee Bhoja
- Bakar Computational Health Sciences Institute, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Daniel Bunis
- Bakar Computational Health Sciences Institute, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Brian L. Le
- Bakar Computational Health Sciences Institute, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Alice S. Tang
- Bakar Computational Health Sciences Institute, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Idit Kosti
- Bakar Computational Health Sciences Institute, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Christine Li
- Bakar Computational Health Sciences Institute, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Sahar Houshdaran
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Sushmita Sen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Júlia Vallvé-Juanico
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Wanxin Wang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Erin Arthurs
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Arpita Govil
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Lauren Mahoney
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Lindsey Lang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Brice Gaudilliere
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain and Perioperative Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | | | - Juan C. Irwin
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Linda C. Giudice
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Marina Sirota
- Bakar Computational Health Sciences Institute, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, USA
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7
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Tang F, Deng M, Xu C, Yang R, Ji X, Hao M, Wang Y, Tian M, Geng Y, Miao J. Unraveling the microbial puzzle: exploring the intricate role of gut microbiota in endometriosis pathogenesis. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1328419. [PMID: 38435309 PMCID: PMC10904627 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1328419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis (EMs) is a prevalent gynecological disorder characterized by the growth of uterine tissue outside the uterine cavity, causing debilitating symptoms and infertility. Despite its prevalence, the exact mechanisms behind EMs development remain incompletely understood. This article presents a comprehensive overview of the relationship between gut microbiota imbalance and EMs pathogenesis. Recent research indicates that gut microbiota plays a pivotal role in various aspects of EMs, including immune regulation, generation of inflammatory factors, angiopoietin release, hormonal regulation, and endotoxin production. Dysbiosis of gut microbiota can disrupt immune responses, leading to inflammation and impaired immune clearance of endometrial fragments, resulting in the development of endometriotic lesions. The dysregulated microbiota can contribute to the release of lipopolysaccharide (LPS), triggering chronic inflammation and promoting ectopic endometrial adhesion, invasion, and angiogenesis. Furthermore, gut microbiota involvement in estrogen metabolism affects estrogen levels, which are directly related to EMs development. The review also highlights the potential of gut microbiota as a diagnostic tool and therapeutic target for EMs. Interventions such as fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) and the use of gut microbiota preparations have demonstrated promising effects in reducing EMs symptoms. Despite the progress made, further research is needed to unravel the intricate interactions between gut microbiota and EMs, paving the way for more effective prevention and treatment strategies for this challenging condition.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Jinwei Miao
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, China
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Gibbons T, Rahmioglu N, Zondervan KT, Becker CM. Crimson clues: advancing endometriosis detection and management with novel blood biomarkers. Fertil Steril 2024; 121:145-163. [PMID: 38309818 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2023.12.018] [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: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2024]
Abstract
Endometriosis is an inflammatory condition affecting approximately 10% of the female-born population. Despite its prevalence, the lack of noninvasive biomarkers has contributed to an established global diagnostic delay. The intricate pathophysiology of this enigmatic disease may leave signatures in the blood, which, when detected, can be used as noninvasive biomarkers. This review provides an update on how investigators are utilizing the established disease pathways and innovative methodologies, including genome-wide association studies, next-generation sequencing, and machine learning, to unravel the clues left in the blood to develop blood biomarkers. Many blood biomarkers show promise in the discovery phase, but because of a lack of standardized and robust methodologies, they rarely progress to the development stages. However, we are now seeing biomarkers being validated with high diagnostic accuracy and improvements in standardization protocols, providing promise for the future of endometriosis blood biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatjana Gibbons
- Oxford Endometriosis CaRe Centre, Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.
| | - Nilufer Rahmioglu
- Oxford Endometriosis CaRe Centre, Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Krina T Zondervan
- Oxford Endometriosis CaRe Centre, Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Christian M Becker
- Oxford Endometriosis CaRe Centre, Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Lin F, Yu H, Zhang L, Zhou J, Cao Y, Wu S, Wang J. Differential expression of interleukin-35 receptor distinguishes different subsets of granulocyte-macrophage-colony-stimulating factor-producing T helper cells in a mouse endometriosis model. Mol Immunol 2023; 164:28-38. [PMID: 37944204 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2023.10.011] [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: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
The immune system contributes to the pathophysiology of endometriosis. The role of ThGM cells, which produce granulocyte macrophage-colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), in the pathogenesis of endometriosis remains unknown. To analyze the features of ThGM cells in endometriosis, a mouse endometriosis model was established. ThGM cells in the spleen, peritoneal fluid (PF), and endometriotic lesions (EL) were measured by flow cytometry, based on the expression of surface markers and intracellular proteins. Live ThGM cells were sorted according to chemokine receptor expression profiles and their effects on other CD4+ T cell subsets were determined by co-culture assays. An adoptive transfer assay was performed to characterize the effect of ThGM cells on endometriosis. We found that ThGM cells were present in endometriotic PF and EL. Live EL ThGM cells were enriched in CD4+CXCR3-CCR8-CCR4+CCR10+ T cells. EL ThGM cells differentially express interleukin-35 receptor (IL-35R), consisting of an IL-35R+ subset and an IL-35R- subset. The IL-35R+ subset expressed less GM-CSF, interleukin-2 (IL-2), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and proliferated slower than the IL-35R- subset. Meanwhile, the IL-35R+ subset was weaker than the IL-35R- subset in promoting the functions of Th1 and Th17 cells. ThGM cell transfer did not influence EL development but significantly alleviated pro-inflammatory cytokines in PF and ELs. Interleukin-35 (IL-35), the ligand of IL-35R, suppressed ThGM cell function and proliferation in an IL-35R-dependent manner. In summary, ThGM cells in the PF and ELs might exacerbate endometriotic inflammation. IL-35 might suppress the function of ThGM cells via IL-35R.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengqin Lin
- The Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Affiliated Renhe Hospital of China Three Gorges University, Yichang City, Hubei Province 443000, China
| | - Hongbo Yu
- The Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Affiliated Renhe Hospital of China Three Gorges University, Yichang City, Hubei Province 443000, China
| | - Li Zhang
- The Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Affiliated Renhe Hospital of China Three Gorges University, Yichang City, Hubei Province 443000, China
| | - Jing Zhou
- The Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Affiliated Renhe Hospital of China Three Gorges University, Yichang City, Hubei Province 443000, China
| | - Yuan Cao
- The Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Affiliated Renhe Hospital of China Three Gorges University, Yichang City, Hubei Province 443000, China
| | - Songli Wu
- The Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Affiliated Renhe Hospital of China Three Gorges University, Yichang City, Hubei Province 443000, China
| | - Junjie Wang
- The Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Affiliated Renhe Hospital of China Three Gorges University, Yichang City, Hubei Province 443000, China.
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10
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Tabatabaei F, Tahernia H, Ghaedi A, Bazrgar A, Khanzadeh S. Diagnostic significance of neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio in endometriosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Womens Health 2023; 23:576. [PMID: 37936116 PMCID: PMC10631181 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02692-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to compile existing evidence on the significance of the NLR in predicting endometriosis in order to aid clinical decision-making and outcomes. METHODS We searched ProQuest, Web of Science, and PubMed for related studies published before January 2, 2023. Standardized mean difference (SMD) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was reported for each outcome. Because a significant level of heterogeneity was found, we used the random-effects model to calculate pooled effects. We used Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) for quality assessment. RESULTS Overall, 18 article with were included in the analysis. A random-effect model revealed that patients with endometriosis had elevated levels of NLR compared to healthy controls (SMD = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.33 to 1.25, P < 0.001). Patients with endometriosis had elevated levels of NLR compared to those with other benign tumors (SMD = 0.85, 95% CI = 0.17 to 1.53, P = 0.014). In addition, NLR level of patients with stage III and IV endometriosis was not different from that of patients with stage I and II endometrioma (SMD = 0.30, 95% CI = -0.14 to 0.74, P = 0.18). However, NLR level was not different between endometriosis patients with and without peritoneal lesions (SMD = -0.12, 95% CI = -0.34to 0.10, P = 0.28), between patients with and without endometrioma (SMD = 0.20, 95% CI = -0.15 to 0.55, P = 0.26) and between endometriosis patients with and without deep lesions (SMD = 0.04, 95% CI = -0.20 to 0.28, P = 0.72). The pooled sensitivity of NLR was 0.67 (95% CI = 0.60-0.73), and the pooled specificity was 0.68 (95% CI, 0.62-0.73). CONCLUSIONS NLR might be utilized in clinics as a possible predictor to help clinicians diagnose endometriosis in affected women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Tabatabaei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Gynaecologic Laparoscopic Surgeries, Al-Zahra Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Arshin Ghaedi
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Trauma Research Center, Shahid Rajaee (Emtiaz) Trauma Hospital, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Aida Bazrgar
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Shokoufeh Khanzadeh
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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11
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Yang H, Zhuang Y. The deviations of CD4 + T cells during peripheral blood and peritoneal fluid of endometriosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2023; 308:1431-1446. [PMID: 36840769 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-023-06964-3] [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: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess whether endometriosis (EMs) was related to systematic and/or local deviations of cluster of differentiation (CD)4 + T cells. METHODS Until November 2022, we enrolled a total of 1363 EMs and 1564 healthy women from 32 studies who met the inclusion criteria. RESULTS After systematically retrieving the literature, we identified 1086 citations and 32 case-control studies were enrolled. Cumulative results suggested that there were insignificant deviations of CD4 + T cells during peripheral blood (PB) between EMs and healthy women (RR: - 0.83, I2 = 99%, p = 0.65), also no statistically significant difference was found between mild and severe EMs (RR: 3.19, I2 = 94%, p = 0.19). We also found insignificant deviations of CD4 + /CD8 + during PB between EMs and healthy women (RR: 0.09, I2 = 99%, p = 0.39), and between mild and severe EMs (RR: - 0.16, I2 = 99%, p = 0.29). The results might suggest that there was no significant correlation between EMs and systematic deviations of CD4 + T cells. When it came to local deviation during peritoneal fluid (PF), the polled results suggested that the frequency of CD4 + T cells during EMs was significantly lower than healthy women (RR: - 5.38, I2 = 93%, p = 0.01), and the ratio of CD4 + /CD8 + during EMs was significantly lower than healthy women (RR: - 0.13, I2 = 0%, p < 0.0001). However, there were insignificant deviations of CD4 + during PF between mild and severe EMs (RR: 1.65, I2 = 53%, p = 0.15), also there was an insignificant difference of CD4 + /CD8 + between mild and severe EMs (RR: - 0.09, I2 = 14%, p = 0.19). EMs might be closely related to local deviations of CD4 + T cells. CONCLUSION There was no obvious correlation between EMs and systematic deviations of CD4 + T cells, EMs might be closely related to local deviations of CD4 + T cells. Further study on the functional deviations and subpopulation distribution of CD4 + T cells is urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Yang
- Department of Gynecology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, 519000, China
| | - Yuan Zhuang
- Department of Gynecology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, 519000, China.
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12
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Fan D, Wang X, Shi Z, Jiang Y, Zheng B, Xu L, Zhou S. Understanding endometriosis from an immunomicroenvironmental perspective. Chin Med J (Engl) 2023; 136:1897-1909. [PMID: 37439327 PMCID: PMC10431529 DOI: 10.1097/cm9.0000000000002649] [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: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 07/14/2023] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Endometriosis, a heterogeneous, inflammatory, and estrogen-dependent gynecological disease defined by the presence and growth of endometrial tissues outside the lining of the uterus, affects approximately 5-10% of reproductive-age women, causing chronic pelvic pain and reduced fertility. Although the etiology of endometriosis is still elusive, emerging evidence supports the idea that immune dysregulation can promote the survival and growth of retrograde endometrial debris. Peritoneal macrophages and natural killer (NK) cells exhibit deficient cytotoxicity in the endometriotic microenvironment, leading to inefficient eradication of refluxed endometrial fragments. In addition, the imbalance of T-cell subtypes results in aberrant cytokine production and chronic inflammation, which contribute to endometriosis development. Although it remains uncertain whether immune dysregulation represents an initial cause or merely a secondary enhancer of endometriosis, therapies targeting altered immune pathways exhibit satisfactory effects in preventing disease onset and progression. Here, we summarize the phenotypic and functional alterations of immune cells in the endometriotic microenvironment, focusing on their interactions with microbiota and endocrine and nervous systems, and how these interactions contribute to the etiology and symptomology of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dian Fan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of MOE and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Xu Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of MOE and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Zhixian Shi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of MOE and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | | | - Bohao Zheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of MOE and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
- Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China
| | - Lian Xu
- Department of Pathology, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Shengtao Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of MOE and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
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13
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Chang LY, Shan J, Hou XX, Li DJ, Wang XQ. Synergy between Th1 and Th2 responses during endometriosis: A review of current understanding. J Reprod Immunol 2023; 158:103975. [PMID: 37331087 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2023.103975] [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: 02/19/2023] [Revised: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is widely perceived as an estrogen-dependent chronic disorder with infertility and pelvic pain. Although the etiology of endometriosis has remained elusive, many studies have proclaimed the relevance of immune system disorders with endometriosis. With the discovery that the dysregulation of multiple biological functions in endometriosis is caused by the aberrant differentiation of T helper cells, a shift towards Th2 immune response may account for the disease progression. This review attempts to present mechanisms of cytokines, chemokines, signal pathways, transcription factors and some other factors related with the derivation of Th1/Th2 immune response involved in the development of endometriosis. The current understanding of treatment approaches and potential therapeutic targets will also be outlined with brief discussion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling-Yu Chang
- Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Jing Shan
- Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Xin-Xin Hou
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Da-Jin Li
- Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai 200011, China.
| | - Xiao-Qiu Wang
- Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai 200011, China.
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14
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Zhang F, Lu Y. The Sphingosine 1-Phosphate Axis: an Emerging Therapeutic Opportunity for Endometriosis. Reprod Sci 2023; 30:2040-2059. [PMID: 36662421 PMCID: PMC9857924 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01167-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a common condition in women of reproductive age, but its current interventions are unsatisfactory. Recent research discovered a dysregulation of the sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) signaling pathway in endometriosis and showed a positive outcome by targeting it. The S1P axis participates in a series of fundamental pathophysiological processes. This narrative review is trying to expound the reported and putative (due to limited reports in this area for now) interactions between the S1P axis and endometriosis in those pathophysiological processes, to provide some perspectives for future research. In short, S1P signaling pathway is highly activated in the endometriotic lesion. The S1P concentration has a surge in the endometriotic cyst fluid and the peritoneal fluid, with the downstream dysregulation of its receptors. The S1P axis plays an essential role in the migration and activation of the immune cells, fibrosis, angiogenesis, pain-related hyperalgesia, and innervation. S1P receptor (S1PR) modulators showed an impressive therapeutic effect by targeting the different S1P receptors in the endometriosis model, and many other conditions resemble endometriosis. And several of them already got approval for clinical application in many diseases, which means a drug repurposing direction and a rapid clinical translation for endometriosis treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengrui Zhang
- Department of Gynecology, The Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, 419 Fangxie Rd, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuan Lu
- Department of Gynecology, The Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, 419 Fangxie Rd, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China.
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15
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Li W, Lin A, Qi L, Lv X, Yan S, Xue J, Mu N. Immunotherapy: A promising novel endometriosis therapy. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1128301. [PMID: 37138868 PMCID: PMC10150018 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1128301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a common disease of the female reproductive system and has malignant features. Although endometriosis by itself is a benign disease, its erosive growth characteristics lead to severe pelvic pain and female infertility. Unfortunately, several aspects of the pathogenesis of endometriosis are still unclear. Furthermore, the clinical therapeutic methods are unsatisfactory. The recurrence rate of endometriosis is high. Accumulating evidence suggests that the onset and development of endometriosis are closely related to the abnormal function of the female autoimmune system, especially the function of some immune cells such as the aggregation of neutrophils, abnormal differentiation of macrophages, decreased cytotoxicity of NK cells, and abnormal function of T- and B-cell lines. Therefore, immunotherapy is probably a novel therapeutic strategy for endometriosis besides surgery and hormone therapy. However, information regarding the clinical application of immunotherapy in the treatment of endometriosis is very limited. This article aimed to review the effects of existing immunomodulators on the development of endometriosis, including immune cell regulators and immune factor regulators. These immunomodulators clinically or experimentally inhibit the pathogenesis and development of endometriosis lesions by acting on the immune cells, immune factors, or immune-related signaling pathways. Thus, immunotherapy is probably a novel and effective clinical treatment choice for endometriosis. Experimental studies of the detailed mechanism of immunotherapy and large-scale clinical studies about the effectiveness and safety of this promising therapeutic method are required in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenshu Li
- Departments of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong, China
| | - Aimin Lin
- Departments of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong, China
- Departments of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Shandong Provincial Hospital affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Lin Qi
- Departments of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong, China
| | - Xin Lv
- Departments of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong, China
| | - Shenghuan Yan
- Departments of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong, China
| | - Jing Xue
- Departments of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong, China
| | - Nan Mu
- Departments of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong, China
- Specialized Laboratory of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong, China
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16
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Wang Y, Dragovic RA, Greaves E, Becker CM, Southcombe JH. Macrophages and small extracellular vesicle mediated-intracellular communication in the peritoneal microenvironment: Impact on endometriosis development. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2023; 5:1130849. [PMID: 37077181 PMCID: PMC10106708 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2023.1130849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is an inflammatory disease that is defined as the growth of endometrium-like tissue outside the uterus, commonly on the lining of the pelvic cavity, visceral organs and in the ovaries. It affects around 190 million women of reproductive age worldwide and is associated with chronic pelvic pain and infertility, which greatly impairs health-related life quality. The symptoms of the disease are variable, this combined with a lack of diagnostic biomarkers and necessity of surgical visualisation to confirm disease, the prognosis can take an average timespan of 6–8 years. Accurate non-invasive diagnostic tests and the identification of effective therapeutic targets are essential for disease management. To achieve this, one of the priorities is to define the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms that contribute to endometriosis. Recently, immune dysregulation in the peritoneal cavity has been linked to endometriosis progression. Macrophages account for over 50% of immune cells in the peritoneal fluid and are critical for lesion growth, angiogenesis, innervation and immune regulation. Apart from the secretion of soluble factors like cytokines and chemokines, macrophages can communicate with other cells and prime disease microenvironments, such as the tumour microenvironment, via the secretion of small extracellular vesicles (sEVs). The sEV-mediated intracellular communication pathways between macrophages and other cells within the peritoneal microenvironment in endometriosis remain unclear. Here, we give an overview of peritoneal macrophage (pMΦ) phenotypes in endometriosis and discuss the role of sEVs in the intracellular communication within disease microenvironments and the impact they may have on endometriosis progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Wang
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, Oxford Endometriosis CaRe Centre, Nuffield University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca A. Dragovic
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, Oxford Endometriosis CaRe Centre, Nuffield University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Erin Greaves
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
| | - Christian M. Becker
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, Oxford Endometriosis CaRe Centre, Nuffield University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Jennifer H. Southcombe
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, Oxford Endometriosis CaRe Centre, Nuffield University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Correspondence: Jennifer Southcombe
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17
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Chen S, Liu J. Associations between endometriosis and allergy-related diseases as well as different specific immunoglobulin E allergy: A cross-sectional study. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2023; 49:665-674. [PMID: 36419221 DOI: 10.1111/jog.15506] [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: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
AIM To explore the associations between endometriosis and different kinds of allergy-related diseases as well as different specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) allergy. METHODS This cross-sectional study included 1332 female participants ≥20 years and divided them into the endometriosis group (n = 97) and the nonendometriosis group (n = 1235). The confounders were obtained by comparing the differences of variables in groups. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to analyze the associations between endometriosis and allergy-related diseases as well as different specific IgE allergy. Subgroup analysis were performed in age, body mass index (BMI), and pregnancy history. RESULTS After adjusting for confounders, increased risk of allergy (odd ratios [OR] = 2.13, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.31-3.47), hay fever (OR = 2.31, 95%CI: 1.32-4.06), and dog-specific IgE (OR = 2.13, 95%CI: 1.03-4.41) were observed in females with endometriosis. Among females aged between 30 and 39 years, the risk of allergy (OR = 3.51, 95%CI: 1.07-11.56), hay fever (OR = 3.26, 95%CI: 1.08-9.83), and dog-specific IgE (OR = 4.39, 95%CI: 1.02-18.88) was increased in patients with endometriosis compared with those without. In terms of females aged 40 to 49 years, the risk of hay fever was increased in patients with endometriosis. For females with BMI of 25-30 kg/m2 , the risk of allergy was increased in patients with endometriosis. Increased risk of allergy, hay fever, and dog-specific IgE was observed in females with a history of pregnancy. CONCLUSION Endometriosis was associated with higher risk of allergy, hay fever, and dog dander. Special care should be provided for patients with endometriosis for the potential risk of allergy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuozhen Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Juan Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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18
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Non-invasive diagnosis of endometriosis: Immunologic and genetic markers. Clin Chim Acta 2023; 538:70-86. [PMID: 36375526 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2022.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis, a benign gynecologic and chronic inflammatory disease, is defined by the presence of endometrial tissue outside the uterus characterized mainly by pelvic pain and infertility. Because endometriosis affects approximately 10% of females, it represents a significant socioeconomic burden worldwide having tremendous impact on daily quality of life. Accurate and prompt diagnosis is crucial for the management of this debilitating disorder. Unfortunately, diagnosis is typically delayed to lack of specific symptoms and readily accessible biomarkers. Although histopathologic examination remains the current gold standard, this approach is highly invasive and not applicable for early screening. Recent work has focused on the identification of reliable biomarkers including immunologic, ie, immune cells, antibodies and cytokines, as well as genetic and biochemical markers, ie, microRNAs, lncRNAs, circulating and mitochondrial nucleic acids, along with some hormones, glycoproteins and signaling molecules. Confirmatory research studies are, however, needed to more fully establish these markers in the diagnosis, progression and staging of these endometrial lesions.
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19
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Han MT, Cheng W, Zhu R, Wu HH, Ding J, Zhao NN, Li H, Wang FX. The cytokine profiles in follicular fluid and reproductive outcomes in women with endometriosis. Am J Reprod Immunol 2022; 89:e13633. [PMID: 36250899 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Endometriosis patients undergoing in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET) treatment suffer from poor oocyte quality, a reduced likelihood of the fertilization rate, and low embryo quality. The dysregulation of immune cells and cytokine profiles in the follicular fluid (FF) may play an important role in the competence of the oocyte and the development of the embryo, but the mechanism remains largely unknown. METHOD OF STUDY A total of 40 proved advanced staged endometriosis patients were enrolled in this study. The pregnancy results were followed until all the embryos collected by the first oocyte retrieval cycle were used up. The immune cells subtypes in FF and serum collected on the day of oocyte retrieval were detected by flow cytometry and 27 cytokines were determined using the Bio-Plex Pro Human Cytokine 27-Plex Immunoassay. The specific effect of cytokine on the gene expression of human granulosa cells was determined by RT-qPCR. RESULTS The fertilization rate and the cumulative live birth rate were significantly lower in the endometriosis group. The ratio of CD4+ /CD8+ T cells in FF was significantly lower, while the level of IP-10, RANTES and G-CSF were statistically higher in the endometriosis group. The level of IP-10 correlated with the IVF outcome. Moreover, treated by IP-10, the mRNA level of FSHR and CYP19A1 the human granulosa cells were downregulated in vitro. CONCLUSION These results suggest that alterations of the lymphocyte subsets and cytokines in women with advanced endometriosis may have an impact on the oocyte development and resulting in poorer IVF outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mu-Tian Han
- Center of Human Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China.,Department of Immunology, Anhui medical university, Hefei, China
| | - Wei Cheng
- Center of Human Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
| | - Rui Zhu
- Center of Human Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
| | - Hui-Hua Wu
- Center of Human Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jie Ding
- Center of Human Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
| | - Nan-Nan Zhao
- Center of Human Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
| | - Hong Li
- Center of Human Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
| | - Fu-Xin Wang
- Center of Human Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
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20
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Szukiewicz D. Epigenetic regulation and T-cell responses in endometriosis – something other than autoimmunity. Front Immunol 2022; 13:943839. [PMID: 35935991 PMCID: PMC9355085 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.943839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is defined as the presence of endometrial-like glands and stroma located outside the uterine cavity. This common, estrogen dependent, inflammatory condition affects up to 15% of reproductive-aged women and is a well-recognized cause of chronic pelvic pain and infertility. Despite the still unknown etiology of endometriosis, much evidence suggests the participation of epigenetic mechanisms in the disease etiopathogenesis. The main rationale is based on the fact that heritable phenotype changes that do not involve alterations in the DNA sequence are common triggers for hormonal, immunological, and inflammatory disorders, which play a key role in the formation of endometriotic foci. Epigenetic mechanisms regulating T-cell responses, including DNA methylation and posttranslational histone modifications, deserve attention because tissue-resident T lymphocytes work in concert with organ structural cells to generate appropriate immune responses and are functionally shaped by organ-specific environmental conditions. Thus, a failure to precisely regulate immune cell transcription may result in compromised immunological integrity of the organ with an increased risk of inflammatory disorders. The coexistence of endometriosis and autoimmunity is a well-known occurrence. Recent research results indicate regulatory T-cell (Treg) alterations in endometriosis, and an increased number of highly active Tregs and macrophages have been found in peritoneal fluid from women with endometriosis. Elimination of the regulatory function of T cells and an imbalance between T helper cells of the Th1 and Th2 types have been reported in the endometria of women with endometriosis-associated infertility. This review aims to present the state of the art in recognition epigenetic reprogramming of T cells as the key factor in the pathophysiology of endometriosis in the context of T-cell-related autoimmunity. The new potential therapeutic approaches based on epigenetic modulation and/or adoptive transfer of T cells will also be outlined.
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Malko D, Elmzzahi T, Beyer M. Implications of regulatory T cells in non-lymphoid tissue physiology and pathophysiology. Front Immunol 2022; 13:954798. [PMID: 35936011 PMCID: PMC9354719 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.954798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Treg cells have been initially described as gatekeepers for the control of autoimmunity, as they can actively suppress the activity of other immune cells. However, their role goes beyond this as Treg cells further control immune responses during infections and tumor development. Furthermore, Treg cells can acquire additional properties for e.g., the control of tissue homeostasis. This is instructed by a specific differentiation program and the acquisition of effector properties unique to Treg cells in non-lymphoid tissues. These tissue Treg cells can further adapt to their tissue environment and acquire distinct functional properties through specific transcription factors activated by a combination of tissue derived factors, including tissue-specific antigens and cytokines. In this review, we will focus on recent findings extending our current understanding of the role and differentiation of these tissue Treg cells. As such we will highlight the importance of tissue Treg cells for tissue maintenance, regeneration, and repair in adipose tissue, muscle, CNS, liver, kidney, reproductive organs, and the lung.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darya Malko
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Immunogenomics and Neurodegeneration, Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen (DZNE), Bonn, Germany
| | - Tarek Elmzzahi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Immunogenomics and Neurodegeneration, Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen (DZNE), Bonn, Germany
| | - Marc Beyer
- Immunogenomics and Neurodegeneration, Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen (DZNE), Bonn, Germany
- Platform foR SinglE Cell GenomIcS and Epigenomics (PRECISE), Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen (DZNE) and University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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22
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The role of the Immune System in the Development of Endometriosis. Cells 2022; 11:cells11132028. [PMID: 35805112 PMCID: PMC9265783 DOI: 10.3390/cells11132028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a chronic disease that affects about 10% of women of reproductive age. It can contribute to pelvic pain, infertility or other conditions such as asthma, cardiovascular disease, breast or ovarian cancer. Research has shown that one of the conditions for the development of endometrial lesions is the dysfunction of the immune system. It appears that immune cells, such as neutrophils, macrophages, NK cells and dendritic cells, may play a specific role in the angiogenesis, growth and invasion of endometriosis cells. Immune cells secrete cytokines and defensins that also affect the endometriosis environment. This review discusses the various components of the immune system that are involved in the formation of endometrial lesions in women.
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Moghaddam MZ, Ansariniya H, Seifati SM, Zare F, Fesahat F. Immunopathogenesis of endometriosis: An overview of the role of innate and adaptive immune cells and their mediators. Am J Reprod Immunol 2022; 87:e13537. [PMID: 35263479 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disease associated with the growth and proliferation of endometrial-like tissues outside the uterus. Although the exact etiology and mechanism of the pathogenesis of the disease have not been fully elucidated, the immune system cells and the mediators produced by them can be named as effective factors in the onset and progression of the disease. AIMS We aim to attempt to review studies on the role of the immune system in endometriosis to better understand the pathogenesis of endometriosis. CONTENT Abundant production of inflammatory mediators by neutrophils and macrophages and reduced cytotoxicity of defined cells promote endometriosis at the early stages of the disease. Following an increase in the inflammation of the environment, the body takes compensatory mechanisms to reduce inflammation and establish homeostasis. For this purpose, the body produces remodeling and anti-inflammatory factors leading to slow conversion of the inflammatory environment into a non-inflammatory environment with proliferative and immunosuppressive properties. Environmental conditions induce M2 macrophages, TH2 cells, and Tregs differentiation, promoting disease progression by producing angiogenic and immunosuppressive factors. However, the exact molecular mechanism involved in changing inflammatory to non-inflammatory conditions is not yet fully understood. IMPLICATIONS Due to the common characteristics of endometriotic cells and cancer cells, most potential treatment options for endometriosis have been suggested due to the results of these methods in the treatment of cancer. In this pathway, immune system cells and soluble mediators can be used as targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Zare Moghaddam
- Reproductive Immunology Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Hossein Ansariniya
- Reproductive Immunology Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.,Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Mohammad Seifati
- Reproductive Immunology Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Fateme Zare
- Reproductive Immunology Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Farzaneh Fesahat
- Reproductive Immunology Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
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Jiang Y, Wang L, Peng Y, Qin J, Tan A, Wang S. Interleukin 17 receptor E identifies heterogeneous T helper 17 cells in peritoneal fluid of moderate and severe endometriosis patients. Clin Exp Immunol 2022; 207:360-369. [PMID: 35553626 PMCID: PMC9113133 DOI: 10.1093/cei/uxac004] [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: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disorder resulting in pelvic pain and infertility. The role of T helper 17 (Th17) cells in endometriosis remains elusive. In this study, through detecting CXCR3, CCR4, CCR10, CCR6, interleukin-17 Receptor E (IL-17RE), and CD27, RORγt-and-IL-17A-expressing Th17 cells were distinguished and sorted from peritoneal fluid (PF) of patients with stage III and IV endometriosis. Furthermore, we found that IL-17RE and CD27 were the labels of heterogeneous PF Th17 subsets, i.e. IL-17RE-CD27- subset, IL-17RE+CD27- subset, and IL-17RE+CD27+ subset. The former two subsets expressed higher IL-17A, GM-CSF, and IL-22 and were more proliferative than the latter subset. RNA-Seq analysis on IL-17RE+ Th17 subset and IL-17RE- Th17 subset revealed up-regulation of genes involved in oxidative phosphorylation and electron transport chain in IL-17RE+ Th17 subset relative to IL-17RE- Th17 subset. Consistently, the IL-17RE+ Th17 subset produced more adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) than IL-17RE- Th17 subset. In conclusion, this study provides a novel method to detect and isolate live PF Th17 cells from endometriosis patients and unveils the functional and metabolic heterogeneity of PF Th17 subsets. Therefore, it sheds light on the elucidation of molecular mechanisms that modulate the function of pathological Th17 cells in endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanping Jiang
- Correspondence: Yanping Jiang, Department of Gynaecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China. E-mail:
| | | | - Yaqin Peng
- Department of Gynaecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Jian Qin
- Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Aili Tan
- Department of Gynaecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Shujun Wang
- Department of Gynaecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
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Jiang YP, Peng YQ, Wang L, Qin J, Zhang Y, Zhao YZ, Tan AL, Wang SJ, Pi J. RNA-sequencing identifies differentially expressed genes in T helper 17 cells in peritoneal fluid of patients with endometriosis. J Reprod Immunol 2021; 149:103453. [PMID: 34839179 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2021.103453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2021] [Revised: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 11/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Innate and adaptive immune factors play significant roles in the pathophysiology of endometriosis. T helper 17 (Th17) cells, a pro-inflammatory T cell subset, were considered to contribute to the progression of endometriosis lesions. However, the regulatory mechanisms of Th17 cells in endometriosis remain unidentified, partially due to the difficulty in recovering live Th17 cells from endometriosis patients. In this study, by flow cytometry analysis of a set of chemokine receptors including CXCR3, CCR4, CCR10, and CCR6, live RORγt-and-IL-17A-expressing Th17 cells were enriched from peritoneal fluid (PF) of patients with different stages of endometriosis for the first time, RNA-sequencing (RNA-Seq) of these PF Th17 cells revealed significantly up-regulated genes and down-regulated genes in stage I-II and stage III-IV endometriosis, compared with their counterparts in normal PF. In conclusion, this study provides a novel method to isolate live Th17 cells from endometriosis patients, unveils an array of differentially expressed genes in endometriosis Th17 cells, and offers valuable gene expression profile information for endometriosis clinical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Ping Jiang
- Department of Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
| | - Ya-Qin Peng
- Department of Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Lu Wang
- Department of Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jian Qin
- Central Laboratory, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yu-Zi Zhao
- Department of Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Ai-Li Tan
- Department of Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Shu-Jun Wang
- Department of Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jie Pi
- Department of Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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26
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Guo F, He Y, Fan Y, Du Z, Sun H, Feng Z, Zhang G, Xiong T. G-CSF and IL-6 may be involved in formation of endometriosis lesions by increasing the expression of angiogenic factors in neutrophils. Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 27:gaab064. [PMID: 34643696 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaab064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Evidence accumulated in recent years has revealed that neutrophils are involved in the initial establishment of endometriosis, which is well-known as a chronic inflammatory disease. So far, why and how neutrophils promote the formation of early endometriosis are still unclear. In this study, using a mouse model of endometriosis, we demonstrated that endometriosis mice (EMs mice) had a significantly increased number of neutrophils in peritoneal fluids and lesions, and increased levels of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) and IL-6 in serum and peritoneal fluids compared to the control group. In the neutrophils and uterine fragments co-injection experiment, neutrophils regulated by G-CSF and IL-6 had a similar effect to neutrophils from EMs mice, increasing the number, area, weight and microvessel density (MVD) of endometriotic lesions. Blocking the effect of G-CSF and IL-6 in EMs mice resulted in a decrease in the number, area and weight of endometriotic lesions. Following the depletion of neutrophils in vivo using a anti-Ly6G antibody, the MVD in the lesions of mice treated with neutrophils from EMs mice and neutrophils from pG/pI6 mice were significantly reduced. Neutrophils from EMs mice and neutrophils from pG/pI6 mice altered the expression levels of Mmp9, Bv8 and Trail genes compared to the neutrophils from PBS-treated mice. IL-6 together with G-CSF induced a higher expression of phospho-STAT3 and STAT3 in neutrophils. These findings suggest that neutrophils modulated by G-CSF and IL-6 through the STAT3 pathway alter the expression levels of the angiogenesis-related genes Mmp9, Bv8 and Trail, and may promote the establishment of early endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Guo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, The People's Republic of China
| | - Yongpei He
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, The People's Republic of China
| | - Yixian Fan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, The People's Republic of China
| | - Zhenzhen Du
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, The People's Republic of China
| | - Huanhuan Sun
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, The People's Republic of China
| | - Zuohua Feng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, The People's Republic of China
| | - Guimei Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, The People's Republic of China
| | - Ting Xiong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, The People's Republic of China
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Ramírez-Pavez TN, Martínez-Esparza M, Ruiz-Alcaraz AJ, Marín-Sánchez P, Machado-Linde F, García-Peñarrubia P. The Role of Peritoneal Macrophages in Endometriosis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221910792. [PMID: 34639133 PMCID: PMC8509388 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent gynecological disorder, defined as the growth of endometrial stromal cells and glands at extrauterine sites. Endometriotic lesions are more frequently located into the abdominal cavity, although they can also be implanted in distant places. Among its etiological factors, the presence of immune dysregulation occupies a prominent place, pointing out the beneficial and harmful outcomes of macrophages in the pathogenesis of this disease. Macrophages are tissue-resident cells that connect innate and adaptive immunity, playing a key role in maintaining local homeostasis in healthy conditions and being critical in the development and sustainment of many inflammatory diseases. Macrophages accumulate in the peritoneal cavity of women with endometriosis, but their ability to clear migrated endometrial fragments seems to be inefficient. Hence, the characteristics of the peritoneal immune system in endometriosis must be further studied to facilitate the search for new diagnostic and therapeutic tools. In this review, we summarize recent relevant advances obtained in both mouse, as the main animal model used to study endometriosis, and human, focusing on peritoneal macrophages obtained from endometriotic patients and healthy donors, under the perspective of its future clinical translation to the role that these cells play on this pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara N. Ramírez-Pavez
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Biología Molecular (B) e Inmunología, Facultad de Medicina, IMIB and Regional Campus of International Excellence “Campus Mare Nostrum”, Universidad de Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (T.N.R.-P.); (M.M.-E.); (A.J.R.-A.)
| | - María Martínez-Esparza
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Biología Molecular (B) e Inmunología, Facultad de Medicina, IMIB and Regional Campus of International Excellence “Campus Mare Nostrum”, Universidad de Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (T.N.R.-P.); (M.M.-E.); (A.J.R.-A.)
| | - Antonio J. Ruiz-Alcaraz
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Biología Molecular (B) e Inmunología, Facultad de Medicina, IMIB and Regional Campus of International Excellence “Campus Mare Nostrum”, Universidad de Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (T.N.R.-P.); (M.M.-E.); (A.J.R.-A.)
| | - Pilar Marín-Sánchez
- Servicio de Ginecología y Obstetricia, Hospital Clínico Universitario Virgen de la Arrixaca, IMIB, 30120 Murcia, Spain;
| | - Francisco Machado-Linde
- Servicio de Ginecología y Obstetricia, Hospital Clínico Universitario Reina Sofía, CARM, 30002 Murcia, Spain;
| | - Pilar García-Peñarrubia
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Biología Molecular (B) e Inmunología, Facultad de Medicina, IMIB and Regional Campus of International Excellence “Campus Mare Nostrum”, Universidad de Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (T.N.R.-P.); (M.M.-E.); (A.J.R.-A.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-8-6888-4673
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Balasubramanian V, Saravanan R, Joseph LD, Dev B, Gouthaman S, Srinivasan B, Dharmarajan A, Rayala SK, Venkatraman G. Molecular dysregulations underlying the pathogenesis of endometriosis. Cell Signal 2021; 88:110139. [PMID: 34464692 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2021.110139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a crippling disease characterized by the presence of endometrium-like tissue or scar outside the uterine cavity, commonly confined to the peritoneal and serosal surfaces of the pelvic organs. 10-15% of women in reproductive age are estimated to be affected by endometriosis. Most of these patients present with infertility and suffer from pelvic pain. The benign disease rarely progresses to malignancy. Regardless of its high prevalence, the pathogenesis of the disease is not fully understood. Treatment options for endometriosis are limited and are often based on a symptomatic approach. The unavailability of proper diagnostic approaches, fewer therapeutic options, and sparse understanding of molecular alterations are responsible for the continued disease burden. Exploring the molecular elements causing the pathogenesis of endometriosis may lead to a number of breakthroughs in the treatment of the illness, such as the discovery of new biomarkers for diagnosis and therapeutic targets that can be a guide to better prognosis and reduced recurrence. The goal of this review is to provide the reader a critical understanding of the disease by summarizing the genetic, immunological, hormonal, and epigenetic deregulations that support the molecular basis for development of endometriotic cyst, with a special focus on the study models needed to analyze these changes in the endometriotic microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vaishnavi Balasubramanian
- Department of Human Genetics, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Technology and Research, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Roshni Saravanan
- Department of Human Genetics, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Technology and Research, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Leena Dennis Joseph
- Department of Pathology, Sri Ramachandra Medical College and Research Institute, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Bhawna Dev
- Department of Radiology, Sri Ramachandra Medical College and Research Institute, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Shanmugasundaram Gouthaman
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Sri Ramachandra Medical College and Research Institute, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Bhuvana Srinivasan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sri Ramachandra Medical College and Research Institute, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Arun Dharmarajan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Technology and Research, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Suresh Kumar Rayala
- Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ganesh Venkatraman
- Department of Human Genetics, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Technology and Research, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
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Li L, Liao Z, Ye M, Jiang J. Recombinant human IL-37 inhibited endometriosis development in a mouse model through increasing Th1/Th2 ratio by inducing the maturation of dendritic cells. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2021; 19:128. [PMID: 34429116 PMCID: PMC8383354 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-021-00811-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometriosis is a serious reproductive and general health consequences. Recombinant human IL-37 (rhIL-37) is an inhibitor of inflammation. METHODS ELISA assay was performed to detect the concentration of cytokines. Flow cytometry was used to analyze cell proportion. Besides, qRT-PCR and western blotting assay were used to detect the level of gene and protein, respectively. Transwell co-culture system was used for the co-culture of dendritic cells (DCs) and CD4+T cells. RESULTS Our data showed that rhIL-37 inhibited the development of ectopic lesions in the mice with endometriosis, increased Th1/Th2 ratio and induced DCs maturation. The co-culture system of DCs and CD4+T cells demonstrated that rhIL-37 increased Th1/Th2 cell ratio through promoting DCs maturation. Moreover, the expression of IL-4 in the DCs derived from healthy mice was inhibited by rhIL-37 treatment. rhIL-37 increased Th1/Th2 cell ratio through inhibiting IL-4 in DCs. Subsequently, our results proved that rhIL-37 promoted the maturation of DCs via inhibiting phosphorylation of STAT3. Activation of STAT3 could reverse rhIL-37-induced maturation of DCs. CONCLUSION Overall, rhIL-37 could protect against endometriosis through increasing the ratio of Th1/Th2 cells via inducing DCs maturation and inhibiting IL-4 expression in the DCs. Furthermore, rhIL-37 induced DCs maturation by inhibiting STAT3 phosphorylation. Our data confirmed the protective effect of rhIL-37 in endometriosis. These data may provide a novel idea for the treatment of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijie Li
- Department of Gynecology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, NO.138 tongzipo, Yuelu District, Hunan, 410013, Changsha, China
| | - Zhouzhou Liao
- Department of Gynecology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, NO.138 tongzipo, Yuelu District, Hunan, 410013, Changsha, China
| | - Mingzhu Ye
- Department of Gynecology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, NO.138 tongzipo, Yuelu District, Hunan, 410013, Changsha, China
| | - Jianfa Jiang
- Department of Gynecology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, NO.138 tongzipo, Yuelu District, Hunan, 410013, Changsha, China.
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Yoshii E, Yamana H, Ono S, Matsui H, Yasunaga H. Association between allergic or autoimmune diseases and incidence of endometriosis: A nested case-control study using a health insurance claims database. Am J Reprod Immunol 2021; 86:e13486. [PMID: 34322942 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Immune responses were reported to be associated with the pathogenesis of endometriosis. However, previous studies of an association between allergic or autoimmune diseases and endometriosis have reported inconsistent results. We investigated the association between allergic or autoimmune diseases and the incidence of endometriosis. METHOD OF STUDY Using a large-scale health insurance claims database in Japan, we identified patients with endometriosis diagnosed between April 2011 and August 2018. For each case, we identified up to four controls with the same age and registration month. Conditional logistic regression analyses were conducted to evaluate the incidence rate ratio (IRR) of endometriosis in women with allergic diseases (asthma, allergic rhinitis, urticaria, atopic dermatitis, allergic conjunctivitis, and type 1 allergies combined), systemic lupus erythematosus, and rheumatoid arthritis compared with women without these diseases. RESULTS We identified 30 516 cases with endometriosis and 120 976 control participants. Mean age at registration was 30 years. There were significant positive associations between type 1 allergy and endometriosis (IRR, 1.10; 95% confidence interval, 1.06-1.13) and between rheumatoid arthritis and endometriosis (IRR, 1.31; 95% confidence interval, 1.05-1.64). Diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus was not associated with increased incidence of endometriosis. Among the different allergic diseases, allergic rhinitis, urticaria, and allergic conjunctivitis were associated with the increased incidence. CONCLUSION Several allergic diseases were associated with an increased incidence of endometriosis. A higher incidence was also observed in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Further studies are warranted to elucidate the influence of immune responses on the development of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Yoshii
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hayato Yamana
- Department of Health Services Research, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Sachiko Ono
- Department of Eat-loss Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroki Matsui
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Health Economics, School of Public Health, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hideo Yasunaga
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Health Economics, School of Public Health, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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Tarumi Y, Mori T, Okimura H, Maeda E, Tanaka Y, Kataoka H, Ito F, Koshiba A, Kusuki I, Kitawaki J. Interleukin-9 produced by helper T cells stimulates interleukin-8 expression in endometriosis. Am J Reprod Immunol 2021; 86:e13380. [PMID: 33210782 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Inflammation and immune responses play crucial roles in the development of endometriosis. Although interleukin-9 (IL-9) has a pro-inflammatory function in chronic inflammatory diseases, its function in endometriosis remains unknown. Here, we aimed to investigate the significance of IL-9 and IL-9-producing lymphocytes in endometriosis. METHOD OF STUDY Specimens were obtained from patients with and without endometriosis. Peritoneal fluid (PF), peripheral blood (PB), and ovarian endometrioma (OE) tissues were analyzed for the proportion of CD4+ IL-9+ lymphocytes and IL-9 concentration using flow cytometry and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. OE, endometrium with endometriosis (EE), and normal endometrium (NE) were analyzed for IL-9 receptor (IL-9R) expression using immunohistochemical staining. IL-9-dependent changes in Interleukin-8 (IL-8) expression in endometrial stromal cells from OE (OESCs) were evaluated using real-time PCR. RESULTS The proportion of CD4+ IL-9+ lymphocytes was higher in the PF, but not the PB, of patients with endometriosis than individuals without endometriosis (p < .05). However, IL-9 levels in the PF did not differ between those with and without endometriosis. We detected CD4+ IL-9+ lymphocytes in OE tissues and IL-9R in OE tissues and OESCs. In OESC culture, IL-9 significantly elevated IL-8 expression in a dose-dependent manner (p < .05), which was nullified by the addition of the anti-IL-9 receptor antibody. Furthermore, IL-9 additively stimulated IL-8 expression in the presence of TNF-α (p < .05). CONCLUSION Our findings show that IL-9 produced by helper T cells induces IL-8 expression, suggesting that IL-9 plays an important role in the development of endometriosis by stimulating IL-8 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yosuke Tarumi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Taisuke Mori
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Okimura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Eiko Maeda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yukiko Tanaka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hisashi Kataoka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Fumitake Ito
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Akemi Koshiba
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Izumi Kusuki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Jo Kitawaki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
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32
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Hey-Cunningham AJ, Riaz A, Fromm PD, Kupresanin F, Markham R, McGuire HM. Circulating and Endometrial Regulatory T Cell and Related Populations in Endometriosis and Infertility: Endometriosis Is Associated with Blunting of Endometrial Cyclical Effects and Reduced Proportions in Moderate-Severe Disease. Reprod Sci 2021; 29:229-242. [PMID: 34160778 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00658-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Evidence to date supports regulatory T cell (Treg) alterations in endometriosis; however, the relationship remains unclear, and Tregs have not previously been investigated with respect to infertility in endometriosis. This prospective cross-sectional cohort study details circulating and endometrial tissue-specific disturbances in Tregs and broader gated populations in women of reproductive age with and without endometriosis (n = 57 and 29, respectively) using flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry. Participants were characterised by menstrual cycle phase, r-ASRM endometriosis disease stage and fertility status.In the endometrium of women with endometriosis, endometrial Tregs and CD4+ lymphocyte proportions did not change between the proliferative and secretory phases, while in women without the disease, they significantly decreased (p = 0.045 and p = 0.039, respectively). In women with endometriosis, endometrial Tregs were lower than in women without endometriosis overall (p = 0.050 as a proportion of all CD45+ immune cells). We have shown for the first time that proportions of CD4+ lymphocytes (p = 0.021), overall lymphocytes (p = 0.034) and non-granulocytes (p = 0.027) were significantly decreased in the endometrium of women with moderate-severe (r-ASRM stages III and IV) compared to minimal-mild (r-ASRM stages I and II) endometriosis. During the secretory phase, circulating Treg proportions were significantly increased in infertile compared to fertile women (p = 0.049). This study confirms differences in endometrial Tregs in women with endometriosis, with blunting of normal menstrual cyclical variations, reduced proportions during the proliferative phase and disease stage-specific relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- A J Hey-Cunningham
- The University of Sydney Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Neonatology, Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - A Riaz
- The University of Sydney Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Neonatology, Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - P D Fromm
- Dendritic Cell Research Group, ANZAC Research Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2139, Australia
| | - F Kupresanin
- Dendritic Cell Research Group, ANZAC Research Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2139, Australia
| | - R Markham
- The University of Sydney Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Neonatology, Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - H M McGuire
- Ramaciotti Facility for Human Systems Biology and Discipline of Pathology, Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia.
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33
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Xiao F, Liu X, Guo SW. Platelets and Regulatory T Cells May Induce a Type 2 Immunity That Is Conducive to the Progression and Fibrogenesis of Endometriosis. Front Immunol 2020; 11:610963. [PMID: 33381124 PMCID: PMC7767909 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.610963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a hormonal disease, as well as a chronic inflammatory disease. While various immune cells are documented to be involved in endometriosis, there is a wanton lack of a bigger picture on how these cells are coordinated to work concertedly. Since endometriotic lesions experience cyclical bleeding, they are fundamentally wounds that undergo repeated tissue injury and repair (ReTIAR). In this study, we attempted to characterize the role of platelets and regulatory T cells (Tregs) in modulating the lesional immune microenvironment and its subsequent effects on lesional progression and fibrogenesis. Through two mouse experiments, we show that, by disrupting predominantly a type 2 immune response in lesional microenvironment, both platelets and Tregs depletion decelerated lesional progression and fibrogenesis, likely through the suppression of the TGF-β1/Smad3 and PDGFR-β/PI3K/Akt signaling pathways. In particular, platelet depletion resulted in significantly reduced lesional expression of thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP), leading to reduced aggregation of macrophages and alternatively activated (M2) macrophages, and of Tregs, T helper 2 (Th2) and Th17 cells but increased aggregation of Th1 cells, in lesions, which, in turn, yields retarded fibrogenesis. Similarly, Tregs depletion resulted in suppression of platelet aggregation, and reduced aggregation of M2 macrophages, Th2 and Th17 cells but increased aggregation of Th1 cells, in lesions. Thus, both platelet and Tregs depletion decelerated lesional progression and fibrogenesis by disrupting predominantly a type 2 immunity in lesional microenvironment. Taken together, this suggests that both platelets and Tregs may induce a type 2 immunity in lesional microenvironment that is conducive to lesional progression and fibrogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengyi Xiao
- 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
| | - 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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Pashizeh F, Mansouri R, Davari-Tanha F, Hosseini R, Asgari Z, Aghaei H, Najafi Arbastan F, Rajaei S. Alterations of CD4+T Cell Subsets in Blood and Peritoneal Fluid in Different Stages of Endometriosis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FERTILITY & STERILITY 2020; 14:201-208. [PMID: 33098386 PMCID: PMC7604714 DOI: 10.22074/ijfs.2020.6127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2019] [Accepted: 02/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Background Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disorder with known immune disturbances. The aim of this
study was to compare the frequency of different CD4+ T cells [T helper (Th)1, Th2, Th17 and regulatory T cells
(Tregs)] in peripheral blood (PB) and peritoneal fluid (PF) of patients that have early and advanced stages of endome-
triosis with a control group. Materials and Methods In this case control study, PB and PF samples were collected from women aged 24-40 years
who underwent laparoscopy procedures. The frequency of CD4+ T subsets were analysed by flow cytometry and com-
pared between three study groups; early endometriosis (stage I, II), advanced endometriosis (stage III, IV) and control
(no endometriosis). T cell numbers were compared between the PB and PF in each of the aforementioned groups. Results No statistically significant difference was found between the study groups regarding the numbers of Th1, Th2
and Th17 cells in PB. The PF of patients with advanced endometriosis had increased numbers of Th17 cells compared
to the control group (P=0.003), with P values of 0.059 and 0.045 in both menstrual phases. Increased numbers of Th2
cells in PF from early compared to advanced stages of endometriosis were detected exclusively in the luteal phase
(P=0.035).
The control group had increased numbers of Treg and Th2 cells in the PF compared to PB (both, P value=0.046).
However, in the early stages of endometriosis there were more Th2, Th17 and Treg cells in the PF compared to PB (P
values: 0.005, 0.047 and 0.013, respectively), while the number of Th17 cells was higher in the PF compared with PB
in the advanced stages of endometriosis (P= 0.013). Conclusion There were increased numbers of Th17 cells in the PF of patients with advanced stages of endometriosis,
which could be related to the severity of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Pashizeh
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Reza Mansouri
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, International Campus, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Davari-Tanha
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Yas Hospital, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reyhaneh Hosseini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Research Development Centre, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Asgari
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamideh Aghaei
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farangis Najafi Arbastan
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Samira Rajaei
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. Electronic Address:
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Toll-Like Receptor 2 Expression as a New Hallmark of Advanced Endometriosis. Cells 2020; 9:cells9081813. [PMID: 32751735 PMCID: PMC7464841 DOI: 10.3390/cells9081813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent evidence suggests that immunological aspects play a pivotal role in this disorder. Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) is crucial in recognizing microbial infections and mediating innate immune response. The objective of our study was to rate with flow cytometry the levels of several subsets of dendritic cells, monocytes, and basic peripheral blood lymphocytes expressing TLR2, aiming at the determination of a possible correlation between the expression of TLR2 and the clinical outcomes of endometriosis in 40 patients and 40 age-matched healthy women. Our study showed the importance of TLR2 expression, mainly on myeloid dendritic cells (mDCs) and B cells in patients with endometriosis. Both mDCs BDCA1+CD19-TLR2+ and B lymphocytes CD19+TLR-2+ proved useful in the differentiation of affected individuals with stages 3–4 of the disease (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve /AUC/ = 0.96, p < 0.0001 for mDCs; AUC = 0.78, p = 0.0001 for B lymphocytes), and those presenting adhesion (AUC = 0.92, p < 0.0001 for mDCs; AUC = 0.82, p < 0.0001 for B lymphocytes) or infertility (AUC = 0.83, p < 0.0001 for mDCs; AUC = 0.73, p = 0.006 for B lymphocytes). Our findings suggest that the levels of TLR2-expressing cells, particularly mDCs and B lymphocytes, may be an effective biomarker of endometriosis, because the disease currently lacks clinically useful noninvasive biomarkers enabling early and cost-effective diagnosis.
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Björk E, Vinnars MT, Nagaev I, Nagaeva O, Lundin E, Ottander U, Mincheva-Nilsson L. Enhanced local and systemic inflammatory cytokine mRNA expression in women with endometriosis evokes compensatory adaptive regulatory mRNA response that mediates immune suppression and impairs cytotoxicity. Am J Reprod Immunol 2020; 84:e13298. [PMID: 32623813 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Endometriosis is a disease characterized by ectopic implantation of endometrium and impaired immune responses. To explore its pathogenic mechanisms, we studied the local and systemic cytokine mRNA profiles and their role in the immunity of patients with endometriosis and healthy controls. METHOD OF STUDY mRNA for eleven cytokines defining cytotoxic Th1, humoral Th2, regulatory Tr1/Th3, and inflammatory cytokine profiles was characterized locally in endometriotic tissue and endometrium, and systemically in PBMCs from women with endometriosis and healthy controls, using real-time qRT-PCR. In addition, immunohistochemical stainings with monoclonal antibodies were performed looking for T regulatory cells in endometriotic lesions. RESULTS We found a downregulation of mRNA for cytokines mediating cytotoxicity and antibody response and an upregulation of inflammatory and T-regulatory cytokines in the endometriotic tissues and endometrium from the patients with endometriosis, suggesting enhanced local inflammation and priming of an adaptive regulatory response. Consistent with those findings, there was an abundancy of T regulatory cells in the endometriotic lesions. CONCLUSIONS The ectopic implantation seen in endometriosis could be possible as a consequence of increased inflammation and priming of adaptive T regulatory cells, resulting in impaired cytotoxicity and enhanced immune suppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Björk
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Örnsköldsvik Hospital, Örnsköldsvik, Sweden.,Department of Clinical Microbiology/Infection and Immunology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden.,Department of Clinical Sciences, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Marie-Therese Vinnars
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Örnsköldsvik Hospital, Örnsköldsvik, Sweden.,Department of Clinical Microbiology/Infection and Immunology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden.,Department of Clinical Sciences, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Ivan Nagaev
- Department of Clinical Microbiology/Infection and Immunology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Olga Nagaeva
- Department of Clinical Microbiology/Infection and Immunology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Eva Lundin
- Department of Medical Biosciences/Pathology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Ulrika Ottander
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Lucia Mincheva-Nilsson
- Department of Clinical Microbiology/Infection and Immunology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
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37
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Huang N, Chi H, Qiao J. Role of Regulatory T Cells in Regulating Fetal-Maternal Immune Tolerance in Healthy Pregnancies and Reproductive Diseases. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1023. [PMID: 32676072 PMCID: PMC7333773 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are a specialized subset of T lymphocytes that function as suppressive immune cells and inhibit various elements of immune response in vitro and in vivo. While there are constraints on the number or function of Tregs which can be exploited to evoke an effective anti-tumor response, sufficient expansion of Tregs is essential for successful organ transplantation and for promoting tolerance of self and foreign antigens. The immune-suppressive property of Tregs equips this T lymphocyte subpopulation with a pivotal role in the establishment and maintenance of maternal tolerance to fetal alloantigens, which is necessary for successful pregnancy. Elevation in the level of pregnancy-related hormones including estrogen, progesterone and human chorionic gonadotropin promotes the recruitment and expansion of Tregs, directly implicating these cells in the regulation of fetal-maternal immune tolerance. Current studies have provided evidence that a defect in the number or function of Tregs contributes to the etiology of several reproductive diseases, such as recurrent spontaneous abortion, endometriosis, and pre-eclampsia. In this review, we provide insight into the underlying mechanism through which Tregs contribute to pregnancy-related immune tolerance and demonstrate the association between deficiencies in Tregs and the development of reproductive diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Huang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Hongbin Chi
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Qiao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
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38
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Delbandi AA, Mahmoudi M, Shervin A, Moradi Z, Arablou T, Zarnani AH. Higher frequency of circulating, but not tissue regulatory T cells in patients with endometriosis. J Reprod Immunol 2020; 139:103119. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2020.103119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2019] [Revised: 03/08/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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Miller JE, Ahn SH, Marks RM, Monsanto SP, Fazleabas AT, Koti M, Tayade C. IL-17A Modulates Peritoneal Macrophage Recruitment and M2 Polarization in Endometriosis. Front Immunol 2020; 11:108. [PMID: 32117261 PMCID: PMC7034338 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 01/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a debilitating gynecological disease characterized by the extrauterine presence of endometrial-like tissues located on the peritoneal membrane and organs of the pelvic cavity. Notably, dysfunctional immune activation in women with endometriosis could also contribute to the development of disease. In particular, alternatively activated (M2) peritoneal macrophages are shown to aid peritoneal lesion development by promoting remodeling of extracellular matrix and neovascularization of lesions. However, the stimuli responsible for polarizing M2 macrophages in endometriosis remain elusive. Interleukin-17A (IL-17A) can induce M2 macrophage polarization in other disease models and IL-17A is elevated in the plasma and endometriotic lesions of women with endometriosis. In this study, we investigated whether IL-17A could induce macrophage recruitment and M2 polarization, while promoting endometriotic lesion growth through enhanced vascularization. By utilizing a co-culture of macrophage-like THP-1 cells with an endometriotic epithelial cell line, our in vitro results suggest that IL-17A indirectly induces M2 markers CCL17 and CD206 by interacting with endometriotic epithelial cells. Further, in a syngeneic mouse model of endometriosis, IL-17A treatment increased macrophages in the peritoneum, which were also M2 in phenotype. However, IL-17A treatment did not augment proliferation or vascularization of the lesion in the study time frame. These findings suggest that IL-17A may be a stimulus inducing the pathogenic polarization of macrophages into the M2 phenotype by first acting on the endometriotic lesion itself.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica E. Miller
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Soo Hyun Ahn
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Ryan M. Marks
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Stephany P. Monsanto
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Asgerally T. Fazleabas
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
| | - Madhuri Koti
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Chandrakant Tayade
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
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40
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Vallvé-Juanico J, Houshdaran S, Giudice LC. The endometrial immune environment of women with endometriosis. Hum Reprod Update 2019; 25:564-591. [PMID: 31424502 PMCID: PMC6737540 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmz018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 211] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Revised: 03/07/2019] [Accepted: 04/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometriosis, a common oestrogen-dependent inflammatory disorder in women of reproductive age, is characterized by endometrial-like tissue outside its normal location in the uterus, which causes pelvic scarring, pain and infertility. While its pathogenesis is poorly understood, the immune system (systemically and locally in endometrium, pelvic endometriotic lesions and peritoneal fluid) is believed to play a central role in its aetiology, pathophysiology and associated morbidities of pain, infertility and poor pregnancy outcomes. However, immune cell populations within the endometrium of women with the disease have had incomplete phenotyping, thereby limiting insight into their roles in this disorder. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The objective herein was to determine reproducible and consistent findings regarding specific immune cell populations and their abundance, steroid hormone responsiveness, functionality, activation states, and markers, locally and systemically in women with and without endometriosis. SEARCH METHODS A comprehensive English language PubMed, Medline and Google Scholar search was conducted with key search terms that included endometriosis, inflammation, human eutopic/ectopic endometrium, immune cells, immune population, immune system, macrophages, dendritic cells (DC), natural killer cells, mast cells, eosinophils, neutrophils, B cells and T cells. OUTCOMES In women with endometriosis compared to those without endometriosis, some endometrial immune cells display similar cycle-phase variation, whereas macrophages (Mø), immature DC and regulatory T cells behave differently. A pro-inflammatory Mø1 phenotype versus anti-inflammatory Mø2 phenotype predominates and natural killer cells display abnormal activity in endometrium of women with the disease. Conflicting data largely derive from small studies, variably defined hormonal milieu and different experimental approaches and technologies. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Phenotyping immune cell subtypes is essential to determine the role of the endometrial immune niche in pregnancy and endometrial homeostasis normally and in women with poor reproductive history and can facilitate development of innovative diagnostics and therapeutics for associated symptoms and compromised reproductive outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Júlia Vallvé-Juanico
- Department of Gynecology, IVI Barcelona S.L., 08017, Barcelona, Spain
- Group of Biomedical Research in Gynecology, Vall Hebron Research Institute (VHIR) and University Hospital, 08035, Barcelona, Spain
- Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193, Bellaterra (Barcelona), Spain
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94193, USA
| | - Sahar Houshdaran
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94193, USA
| | - Linda C Giudice
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94193, USA
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41
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Pro-endometriotic niche in endometriosis. Reprod Biomed Online 2019; 38:549-559. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2018.12.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2018] [Revised: 08/31/2018] [Accepted: 12/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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42
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García-Gómez E, Vázquez-Martínez ER, Reyes-Mayoral C, Cruz-Orozco OP, Camacho-Arroyo I, Cerbón M. Regulation of Inflammation Pathways and Inflammasome by Sex Steroid Hormones in Endometriosis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:935. [PMID: 32063886 PMCID: PMC7000463 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2019] [Accepted: 12/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a gynecological disorder characterized by the growth of endometrial tissue (glands and stroma) outside the uterus, mainly in the peritoneal cavity, ovaries, and intestines. This condition shows estrogen dependency and progesterone resistance, and it has been associated with chronic inflammation, severe pain, and infertility, which negatively affect the quality of life in reproductive women. The molecular mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of endometriosis are not completely understood; however, inflammation plays a key role in the pathophysiology of the disease, mainly by altering the function of immune cells (macrophages, natural killer, and T cells) and increasing levels of pro-inflammatory mediators in the peritoneal cavity, endometrium, and blood. These immune alterations inhibit apoptotic pathways and promote adhesion and proliferation of endometriotic cells, as well as angiogenesis and neurogenesis in endometriotic lesions. It has been demonstrated that hormonal alterations in endometriosis are related to the inflammatory unbalance in this disease. Particularly, steroid hormones (mainly estradiol) promote the expression and release of pro-inflammatory factors. Excessive inflammation in endometriosis contributes to changes of hormonal regulation by modulating sex steroid receptors expression and increasing aromatase activity. In addition, dysregulation of the inflammasome pathway, mediated by an alteration of cellular responses to steroid hormones, participates in disease progression through preventing cell death, promoting adhesion, invasion, and cell proliferation. Furthermore, inflammation is involved in endometriosis-associated infertility, which alters endometrium receptivity by impairing biochemical responses and decidualization. The purpose of this review is to present current research about the role of inflammasome in the pathogenesis of endometriosis as well as the molecular role of sex hormones in the inflammatory responses in endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth García-Gómez
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología (CONACyT)-Instituto Nacional de Perinatología, Mexico City, Mexico
- *Correspondence: Elizabeth García-Gómez
| | - Edgar Ricardo Vázquez-Martínez
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | | | - Ignacio Camacho-Arroyo
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Marco Cerbón
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
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Pavone D, Turrini I, Sorbi F, Vannuccini S, Capezzuoli T, Fambrini M, Petraglia F. Hormones and Inflammation: An Update on Endometriosis. MENSTRUAL CYCLE RELATED DISORDERS 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-14358-9_14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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Koninckx PR, Ussia A, Adamyan L, Wattiez A, Gomel V, Martin DC. Pathogenesis of endometriosis: the genetic/epigenetic theory. Fertil Steril 2018; 111:327-340. [PMID: 30527836 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2018.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 200] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2018] [Revised: 10/16/2018] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the pathophysiology of endometriosis. DESIGN Overview of observations on endometriosis. SETTING Not applicable. PATIENT(S) None. INTERVENTIONS(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The hypothesis is compatible with all observations. RESULT(S) Endometriosis, endometrium-like tissue outside the uterus, has a variable macroscopic appearance and a poorly understood natural history. It is a hereditary and heterogeneous disease with many biochemical changes in the lesions, which are clonal in origin. It is associated with pain, infertility, adenomyosis, and changes in the junctional zone, placentation, immunology, plasma, peritoneal fluid, and chronic inflammation of the peritoneal cavity. The Sampson hypothesis of implanted endometrial cells following retrograde menstruation, angiogenic spread, lymphogenic spread, or the metaplasia theory cannot explain all observations if metaplasia is defined as cells with reversible changes and an abnormal behavior/morphology due to the abnormal environment. We propose a polygenetic/polyepigenetic mechanism. The set of genetic and epigenetic incidents transmitted at birth could explain the hereditary aspects, the predisposition, and the endometriosis-associated changes in the endometrium, immunology, and placentation. To develop typical, cystic ovarian or deep endometriosis lesions, a variable series of additional transmissible genetic and epigenetic incidents are required to occur in a cell which may vary from endometrial to stem cells. Subtle lesions are viewed as endometrium in a different environment until additional incidents occur. Typical cystic ovarian or deep endometriosis lesions are heterogeneous and represent three different diseases. CONCLUSION(S) The genetic epigenetic theory is compatible with all observations on endometriosis. Implications for treatment and prevention are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippe R Koninckx
- Obstetrics-Gynecology, KU Leuven, Bierbeek, Belgium; Gruppo Italo Belga, Rome, Italy; Latiffa Hospital, Dubai, United Arab Emirates; Università Cattolica, Roma, Italy.
| | - Anastasia Ussia
- Gruppo Italo Belga, Rome, Italy; Università Cattolica, Roma, Italy
| | - Leila Adamyan
- Department of Operative Gynecology, Federal State Budget Institution V. I. Kulakov Research Centre for Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, and Department of Reproductive Medicine and Surgery, Moscow State University of Medicine and Dentistry, Moscow, Russia
| | - Arnaud Wattiez
- Latiffa Hospital, Dubai, United Arab Emirates; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Victor Gomel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia and Women's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Dan C Martin
- School of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, and Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
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45
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Zhang T, De Carolis C, Man GCW, Wang CC. The link between immunity, autoimmunity and endometriosis: a literature update. Autoimmun Rev 2018; 17:945-955. [PMID: 30107265 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2018.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis (EMS), an estrogen-dependent inflammatory disorder affects approximately 5-10% of the general female population of reproductive age and 20-90% of women with pelvic pain and infertility. Many immunological factors are known to contribute significantly to the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of EMS, and both chronic local inflammation and autoantibodies in EMS shares many similarities with autoimmune diseases (AD). However, the autoimmune etiology in EMS remains controversial, and its evidence on autoimmune basis may be limited. Here we aim to review the current understanding between autoimmunity and EMS to provide important knowledge to develop future potential immunomodulatory therapy for the treatment of EMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong; Shenzhen Youshare Biotechnology Co. Ltd, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Caterina De Carolis
- Polymedical Center for Prevention of Recurrent Spontaneous Abortion, Rome, Italy.
| | - Gene Chi Wai Man
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong; Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Chi Chiu Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong; Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong; School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
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46
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Immunology of endometriosis. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2018; 50:39-49. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2018.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2017] [Accepted: 01/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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47
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Králíčková M, Fiala L, Losan P, Tomes P, Vetvicka V. Altered Immunity in Endometriosis: What Came First? Immunol Invest 2018; 47:569-582. [DOI: 10.1080/08820139.2018.1467926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Milena Králíčková
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Plzen, Czech Republic
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Plzen, Czech Republic
- Biomedical Centre, Faculty of Medicine in Plzen, Charles University, Plzen, Czech Republic
| | - Ludek Fiala
- Institute of Sexology First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Losan
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Plzen, Czech Republic
| | - Pavel Tomes
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Plzen, Czech Republic
| | - Vaclav Vetvicka
- Department of Pathology, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
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Cho YJ, Lee SH, Park JW, Han M, Park MJ, Han SJ. Dysfunctional signaling underlying endometriosis: current state of knowledge. J Mol Endocrinol 2018; 60:R97-R113. [PMID: 29330150 DOI: 10.1530/jme-17-0227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2018] [Accepted: 01/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis is defined as the presence of endometrial tissue outside the uterine cavity. It affects approximately 5-10% of women of reproductive age. Endometriosis is associated with dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia and, often, severe pelvic pain. In addition to pain, women with endometriosis often experience infertility. Defining the molecular etiology of endometriosis is a significant challenge for improving the quality of women's lives. Unfortunately, the pathophysiology of endometriosis is not well understood. Here, we summarize the potential causative factors of endometriosis in the following three categories: (1) dysregulation of immune cells in the peritoneal fluid and endometriotic lesions; (2) alteration of apoptotic signaling in retrograde menstrual tissue and cytotoxic T cells involved in endometriosis progression and (3) dysregulation of oxidative stress. Determining the molecular etiology of these dysregulated cellular signaling pathways should provide crucial clues for understanding initiation and progression of endometriosis. Moreover, improved understanding should suggest new molecular therapeutic targets that could improve the specificity of endometriosis treatments and reduce the side effects associated with current approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeon Jean Cho
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dong-A University, College of Medicine, Busan, Republic of Korea
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Seung Hyun Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dong-A University, College of Medicine, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Woo Park
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dong-A University, College of Medicine, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Myoungseok Han
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dong-A University, College of Medicine, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Mi Jin Park
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Sang Jun Han
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Dan L Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
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49
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Hanada T, Tsuji S, Nakayama M, Wakinoue S, Kasahara K, Kimura F, Mori T, Ogasawara K, Murakami T. Suppressive regulatory T cells and latent transforming growth factor-β-expressing macrophages are altered in the peritoneal fluid of patients with endometriosis. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2018; 16:9. [PMID: 29391020 PMCID: PMC5796574 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-018-0325-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2017] [Accepted: 01/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometriosis is a known cause of infertility. Differences in immune tolerance caused by regulatory T cells (Tregs) and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) are thought to be involved in the pathology of endometriosis. Evidence has indicated that Tregs can be separated into three functionally and phenotypically distinct subpopulations and that activated TGF-β is released from latency-associated peptide (LAP) on the surfaces of specific cells. The aim of this study was to examine differences in Treg subpopulations and LAP in the peripheral blood (PB) and peritoneal fluid (PF) of patients with and without endometriosis. METHODS PB and PF were collected from 28 women with laparoscopically and histopathologically diagnosed endometriosis and 20 disease-free women who were subjected to laparoscopic surgery. Three subpopulations of CD4+ T lymphocytes (CD45RA+FoxP3low resting Tregs, CD45RA-FoxP3high effector Tregs, and CD45RA-FoxP3low non-Tregs) and CD11b+ mononuclear cells expressing LAP were analyzed by flow cytometry using specific monoclonal antibodies. RESULTS Proportions of suppressive Tregs (resting and effector Tregs) were significantly higher in the PF samples of patients with endometriosis than in those of control women (P = 0.02 and P < 0.01, respectively) but did not differ between the PB samples of patients and controls. The percentage of CD11b+LAP+ macrophages was significantly lower in PF samples of patients with endometriosis than in those of controls (P < 0.01) but was not altered in the PB samples. CONCLUSION Proportions of suppressive Tregs and LAP+ macrophages are altered locally in the PF of endometriosis patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tetsuro Hanada
- 0000 0000 9747 6806grid.410827.8Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Seta Tsukionowa-cho, Otsu, Shiga 520-2192 Japan
| | - Shunichiro Tsuji
- 0000 0000 9747 6806grid.410827.8Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Seta Tsukionowa-cho, Otsu, Shiga 520-2192 Japan
| | - Misako Nakayama
- 0000 0000 9747 6806grid.410827.8Department of Pathology, Division of Pathology and Disease Regulation, Shiga University of Medical Science, Seta Tsukionowa-cho, Otsu, Shiga 520-2192 Japan
| | - Shiro Wakinoue
- 0000 0000 9747 6806grid.410827.8Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Seta Tsukionowa-cho, Otsu, Shiga 520-2192 Japan
| | - Kyoko Kasahara
- 0000 0000 9747 6806grid.410827.8Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Seta Tsukionowa-cho, Otsu, Shiga 520-2192 Japan
| | - Fuminori Kimura
- 0000 0000 9747 6806grid.410827.8Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Seta Tsukionowa-cho, Otsu, Shiga 520-2192 Japan
| | - Takahide Mori
- Academia for Repro-Regenerative Medicine, Nonprofit Organization, 394-1 Higashi-Hinodono-cho, Ichijo-Shinmachi-Higashiiru, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto, 602-0917 Japan
| | - Kazumasa Ogasawara
- 0000 0000 9747 6806grid.410827.8Department of Pathology, Division of Pathology and Disease Regulation, Shiga University of Medical Science, Seta Tsukionowa-cho, Otsu, Shiga 520-2192 Japan
| | - Takashi Murakami
- 0000 0000 9747 6806grid.410827.8Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Seta Tsukionowa-cho, Otsu, Shiga 520-2192 Japan
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50
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Izumi G, Koga K, Takamura M, Makabe T, Satake E, Takeuchi A, Taguchi A, Urata Y, Fujii T, Osuga Y. Involvement of immune cells in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2018; 44:191-198. [PMID: 29316073 DOI: 10.1111/jog.13559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2017] [Accepted: 10/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is characterized by the implantation and growth of endometriotic tissues outside the uterus. It is widely accepted the theory that endometriosis is caused by the implantation of endometrial tissue from retrograde menstruation; however, retrograde menstruation occurs in almost all women and other factors are required for the establishment of endometriosis, such as cell survival, cell invasion, angiogenesis, and cell growth. Immune factors in the local environment may, therefore, contribute to the formation and progression of endometriosis. Current evidence supports the involvement of immune cells in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. Peritoneal neutrophils and macrophages secrete biochemical factors that help endometriotic cell growth and invasion, and angiogenesis. Peritoneal macrophages and NK cells in endometriosis have limited capability of eliminating endometrial cells in the peritoneal cavity. An imbalance of T cell subsets leads to aberrant cytokine secretions and inflammation that results in the growth of endometriosis lesions. It is still uncertain whether these immune cells have a role in the initial cause and/or stimulate actions that enhance disease; however, in either case, modulating the actions of these cells may prevent initiation or disease progression. Further studies are needed to deepen the understanding of the pathology of endometriosis and to develop novel management approaches of benefit to women suffering from this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gentaro Izumi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kaori Koga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masashi Takamura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomoko Makabe
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Erina Satake
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Arisa Takeuchi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ayumi Taguchi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoko Urata
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Fujii
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yutaka Osuga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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