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Zaninelli TH, Fattori V, Heintz OK, Wright KR, Bennallack PR, Sim D, Bukhari H, Terry KL, Vitonis AF, Missmer SA, Andrello AC, Anchan RM, Godin SK, Bree D, Verri WA, Rogers MS. Targeting NGF but not VEGFR1 or BDNF signaling reduces endometriosis-associated pain in mice. J Adv Res 2024:S2090-1232(24)00360-6. [PMID: 39142441 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2024.08.017] [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: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2024] [Accepted: 08/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects ∼10 % of women. A significant fraction of patients experience limited or no efficacy with current therapies. Tissue adjacent to endometriosis lesions often exhibits increased neurite and vascular density, suggesting that disease pathology involves neurotrophic activity and angiogenesis. OBJECTIVES We aim to evaluate the potential for key tyrosine-kinase-receptor-coupled neurotrophic molecules to contribute to endometriosis-associated pain in mice. METHODS Peritoneal fluid was collected from endometriosis patients undergoing surgery and the levels of NGF and VEGFR1 regulators (VEGFA, VEGFB, PLGF, and sVEGFR1) were quantified by ELISA. VEGFR1 regulator concentrations were used to calculate VEGFR1 occupancy. We used genetic depletion, neutralizing antibodies, and pharmacological approaches to specifically block neurotrophic ligands (NGF or BDNF) or receptors (VEGFR1, TRKs) in a murine model of endometriosis-associated pain. Endometriosis-associated pain was measured using von Frey filaments, quantification of spontaneous abdominal pain-related behavior, and thermal discomfort. Disease parameters were evaluated by lesion size and prevalence. To evaluate potential toxicity, we measured the effect of entrectinib dose and schedule on body weight, liver and kidney function, and bone structure (via micro-CT). RESULTS We found that entrectinib (pan-Trk inhibitor) or anti-NGF treatments reduced evoked pain, spontaneous pain, and thermal discomfort. In contrast, even though calculated receptor occupancy revealed that VEGFR1 agonist levels are sufficient to support signaling, blocking VEGFR1 via antibody or tamoxifen-induced knockout did not reduce pain or lesion size in mice. Targeting BDNF-TrkB with an anti-BDNF antibody also proved ineffective. Notably, changing dosing schedule to once weekly eliminated entrectinib-induced bone-loss without decreasing efficacy against pain. CONCLUSIONS This suggests NGF-TrkA signaling, but not BDNF-TrkB or VEGF-VEGFR1, mediates endometriosis-associated pain. Moreover, entrectinib blocks endometriosis-associated pain and reduces lesion sizes. Our results also indicated that entrectinib-like molecules are promising candidates for endometriosis treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiago H Zaninelli
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States; Laboratory of Pain, Inflammation, Neuropathy, and Cancer, Department of Pathology, Center of Biological Sciences, Londrina State University, Londrina, PR, Brazil
| | - Victor Fattori
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Olivia K Heintz
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Kristeena R Wright
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Philip R Bennallack
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Danielle Sim
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Hussain Bukhari
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Kathryn L Terry
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States; Boston Center for Endometriosis, Boston Children's Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States; Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Allison F Vitonis
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States; Boston Center for Endometriosis, Boston Children's Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Stacey A Missmer
- Boston Center for Endometriosis, Boston Children's Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States; Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
| | - Avacir C Andrello
- Department of Physics, Center of Exact Sciences, Londrina State University, Londrina, PR, Brazil
| | - Raymond M Anchan
- Boston Center for Endometriosis, Boston Children's Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States; Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | | | - Dara Bree
- Cygnal Therapeutics, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Waldiceu A Verri
- Laboratory of Pain, Inflammation, Neuropathy, and Cancer, Department of Pathology, Center of Biological Sciences, Londrina State University, Londrina, PR, Brazil
| | - Michael S Rogers
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States; Boston Center for Endometriosis, Boston Children's Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States.
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Sreya M, Tucker DR, Yi J, Alotaibi FT, Lee AF, Noga H, Yong PJ. Nerve Bundle Density and Expression of NGF and IL-1β Are Intra-Individually Heterogenous in Subtypes of Endometriosis. Biomolecules 2024; 14:583. [PMID: 38785989 PMCID: PMC11118880 DOI: 10.3390/biom14050583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a gynecological disorder associated with local inflammation and neuroproliferation. Increased nerve bundle density has been attributed to increased expression of nerve growth factor (NGF) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β). Immunohistochemical analysis was carried out on 12 patients presenting with all three anatomic subtypes of endometriosis (deep, superficial peritoneal, endometrioma) at surgery, with at least two surgically excised subtypes available for analysis. Immunolocalization for nerve bundle density around endometriosis using protein gene product 9.5 (PGP9.5), as well as NGF and IL-1β histoscores in endometriosis epithelium/stroma, was performed to evaluate differences in scores between lesions and anatomic subtypes per patient. Intra-individual heterogeneity in scores across lesions was assessed using the coefficient of variation (CV). The degree of score variability between subtypes was evaluated using the percentage difference between mean scores from one subtype to another subtype for each marker. PGP9.5 nerve bundle density was heterogenous across multiple subtypes of endometriosis, ranging from 50.0% to 173.2%, where most patients (8/12) showed CV ≥ 100%. The percentage difference in scores showed that PGP9.5 nerve bundle density and NGF and IL-1β expression were heterogenous between anatomic subtypes within the same patient. Based on these observations of intra-individual heterogeneity, we conclude that markers of neuroproliferation in endometriosis should be stratified by anatomic subtype in future studies of clinical correlation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahfuza Sreya
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 2A1, Canada
- Women’s Health Research Institute, Vancouver, BC V6H 2N9, Canada
| | - Dwayne R. Tucker
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 2A1, Canada
- Women’s Health Research Institute, Vancouver, BC V6H 2N9, Canada
| | - Jennifer Yi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 2A1, Canada
| | - Fahad T. Alotaibi
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh 13317, Saudi Arabia
| | - Anna F. Lee
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z7, Canada
| | - Heather Noga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 2A1, Canada
- Women’s Health Research Institute, Vancouver, BC V6H 2N9, Canada
- Centre for Pelvic Pain and Endometriosis, BC Women’s Hospital & Health Centre, Vancouver, BC V6H 3N1, Canada
| | - Paul J. Yong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 2A1, Canada
- Women’s Health Research Institute, Vancouver, BC V6H 2N9, Canada
- Centre for Pelvic Pain and Endometriosis, BC Women’s Hospital & Health Centre, Vancouver, BC V6H 3N1, Canada
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Song SY, Jung YW, Shin W, Park M, Lee GW, Jeong S, An S, Kim K, Ko YB, Lee KH, Kang BH, Lee M, Yoo HJ. Endometriosis-Related Chronic Pelvic Pain. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2868. [PMID: 37893241 PMCID: PMC10603876 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11102868] [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: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis, which is the presence of endometrial stroma and glands outside the uterus, is one of the most frequently diagnosed gynecologic diseases in reproductive women. Patients with endometriosis suffer from various pain symptoms such as dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, and chronic pelvic pain. The pathophysiology for chronic pain in patients with endometriosis has not been fully understood. Altered inflammatory responses have been shown to contribute to pain symptoms. Increased secretion of cytokines, angiogenic factors, and nerve growth factors has been suggested to increase pain. Also, altered distribution of nerve fibers may also contribute to chronic pain. Aside from local contributing factors, sensitization of the nervous system is also important in understanding persistent pain in endometriosis. Peripheral sensitization as well as central sensitization have been identified in patients with endometriosis. These sensitizations of the nervous system can also explain increased incidence of comorbidities related to pain such as irritable bowel disease, bladder pain syndrome, and vulvodynia in patients with endometriosis. In conclusion, there are various possible mechanisms behind pain in patients with endometriosis, and understanding these mechanisms can help clinicians understand the nature of the pain symptoms and decide on treatments for endometriosis-related pain symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soo Youn Song
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Chungnam National University Sejong Hospital, 20, Bodeum 7 ro, Sejong 30099, Republic of Korea; (S.Y.S.); (Y.W.J.); (W.S.)
| | - Ye Won Jung
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Chungnam National University Sejong Hospital, 20, Bodeum 7 ro, Sejong 30099, Republic of Korea; (S.Y.S.); (Y.W.J.); (W.S.)
| | - WonKyo Shin
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Chungnam National University Sejong Hospital, 20, Bodeum 7 ro, Sejong 30099, Republic of Korea; (S.Y.S.); (Y.W.J.); (W.S.)
| | - Mia Park
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Chungnam National University Hospital, 33, Munhwa-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon 2868, Republic of Korea; (M.P.); (G.W.L.); (S.J.); (S.A.); (K.K.); (Y.B.K.); (K.H.L.); (B.H.K.); (M.L.)
| | - Geon Woo Lee
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Chungnam National University Hospital, 33, Munhwa-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon 2868, Republic of Korea; (M.P.); (G.W.L.); (S.J.); (S.A.); (K.K.); (Y.B.K.); (K.H.L.); (B.H.K.); (M.L.)
| | - Soohwa Jeong
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Chungnam National University Hospital, 33, Munhwa-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon 2868, Republic of Korea; (M.P.); (G.W.L.); (S.J.); (S.A.); (K.K.); (Y.B.K.); (K.H.L.); (B.H.K.); (M.L.)
| | - Sukjeong An
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Chungnam National University Hospital, 33, Munhwa-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon 2868, Republic of Korea; (M.P.); (G.W.L.); (S.J.); (S.A.); (K.K.); (Y.B.K.); (K.H.L.); (B.H.K.); (M.L.)
| | - Kyoungmin Kim
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Chungnam National University Hospital, 33, Munhwa-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon 2868, Republic of Korea; (M.P.); (G.W.L.); (S.J.); (S.A.); (K.K.); (Y.B.K.); (K.H.L.); (B.H.K.); (M.L.)
| | - Young Bok Ko
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Chungnam National University Hospital, 33, Munhwa-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon 2868, Republic of Korea; (M.P.); (G.W.L.); (S.J.); (S.A.); (K.K.); (Y.B.K.); (K.H.L.); (B.H.K.); (M.L.)
| | - Ki Hwan Lee
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Chungnam National University Hospital, 33, Munhwa-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon 2868, Republic of Korea; (M.P.); (G.W.L.); (S.J.); (S.A.); (K.K.); (Y.B.K.); (K.H.L.); (B.H.K.); (M.L.)
| | - Byung Hun Kang
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Chungnam National University Hospital, 33, Munhwa-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon 2868, Republic of Korea; (M.P.); (G.W.L.); (S.J.); (S.A.); (K.K.); (Y.B.K.); (K.H.L.); (B.H.K.); (M.L.)
| | - Mina Lee
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Chungnam National University Hospital, 33, Munhwa-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon 2868, Republic of Korea; (M.P.); (G.W.L.); (S.J.); (S.A.); (K.K.); (Y.B.K.); (K.H.L.); (B.H.K.); (M.L.)
| | - Heon Jong Yoo
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Chungnam National University Sejong Hospital, 20, Bodeum 7 ro, Sejong 30099, Republic of Korea; (S.Y.S.); (Y.W.J.); (W.S.)
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Mwaura AN, Marshall N, Anglesio MS, Yong PJ. Neuroproliferative dyspareunia in endometriosis and vestibulodynia. Sex Med Rev 2023; 11:323-332. [PMID: 37544766 DOI: 10.1093/sxmrev/qead033] [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: 01/08/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Endometriosis is a common cause of deep dyspareunia, while provoked vestibulodynia is a common cause of superficial dyspareunia. The etiology of dyspareunia in both conditions is multifactorial and may include the role of local nerve growth (neurogenesis or neuroproliferation) that sensitizes pelvic structures and leads to pain with contact. OBJECTIVES To review the evidence for neuroproliferative dyspareunia in endometriosis and provoked vestibulodynia. METHODS Narrative review. RESULTS The pelvic peritoneum and vulvar vestibule receive somatic and autonomic innervation. Various markers have been utilized for nerve subtypes, including pan-neuronal markers and those specific for sensory and autonomic nerve fibers. The nerve growth factor family includes neurotrophic factors, such as nerve growth factor and brain-derived neurotrophic factor, and their receptors. Studies of endometriosis and provoked vestibulodynia have demonstrated the presence of nerve fibers around endometriosis epithelium/stroma in the pelvic peritoneum and within the vulvar vestibule. The number of nerve fibers is higher in these pain conditions as compared with control tissue. Nerve growth factor expression by endometriosis stroma and by immune cells in the vulvar vestibule may be involved in local neuroproliferation. Local inflammation is implicated in this neuroproliferation, with potential roles of interleukin 1β and mast cells in both conditions. Several studies have shown a correlation between nerve fibers around endometriosis and dyspareunia severity, but studies are lacking in provoked vestibulodynia. There are several possible clinical ramifications of neuroproliferative dyspareunia in endometriosis and provoked vestibulodynia, in terms of history, examination, biopsy, and surgical and medical treatment. CONCLUSIONS A neuroproliferative subtype of dyspareunia may be implicated in endometriosis and provoked vestibulodynia. Additional research is needed to validate this concept and to integrate it into clinical studies. Neuroproliferative pathways could serve as novel therapeutic targets for the treatment of dyspareunia in endometriosis and provoked vestibulodynia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnes N Mwaura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, V6H 3N1, Canada
| | - Nisha Marshall
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, V6H 3N1, Canada
| | - Michael S Anglesio
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, V6H 3N1, Canada
| | - Paul J Yong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, V6H 3N1, Canada
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Yu J, Berga SL, Zou E, Schrepf AD, Clauw DJ, As-Sanie S, Taylor RN. Neurotrophins and Their Receptors, Novel Therapeutic Targets for Pelvic Pain in Endometriosis, Are Coordinately Regulated by IL-1β via the JNK Signaling Pathway. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2023; 193:1046-1058. [PMID: 37164275 PMCID: PMC10433690 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2023.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Pelvic pain in women with endometriosis is attributed to neuroinflammation and afferent nociceptor nerves in ectopic and eutopic endometrium. The hypothesis that uterine nociception is activated by IL-1β, a prominent cytokine in endometriosis, was tested herein. Immunofluorescence histochemistry confirmed the presence of neurons in human endometrial tissue. Expression of nerve growth factor (NGF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and their receptors in endometrial tissue and cells was validated by immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. Isolated endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) were subjected to dose-response and time-course experiments with IL-1β and kinase inhibitors to characterize in vitro biomarkers. Neural biomarkers were co-localized in endometrial nerve fibers. NGF, BDNF, and their receptors tropomyosin receptor kinase (Trk) A, TrkB, and p75 neurotrophin receptor were all expressed in primary ESCs. IL-1β stimulated higher TrkA/B expression in ESCs derived from endometriosis cases (2.8- ± 0.2-fold) than cells from controls (1.5- ± 0.3-fold, t-test, P < 0.01), effects that were mediated via the c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) pathway. BDNF concentrations trended higher in peritoneal fluid of endometriosis cases but were not statistically different from controls (P = 0.16). The results support the hypothesis that NGF and BDNF and their corresponding receptors orchestrate innervation of the endometrium, which is augmented by IL-1β. We postulate that JNK inhibitors, such as SP600125, have the potential to reduce neuroinflammation in women with endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Yu
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Pathology and Anatomical Sciences, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Sarah L Berga
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Pathology and Anatomical Sciences, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York
| | - Eric Zou
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Pathology and Anatomical Sciences, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York
| | - Andrew D Schrepf
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Daniel J Clauw
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Sawsan As-Sanie
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Robert N Taylor
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Pathology and Anatomical Sciences, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
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Wu Y, Li X, Dai Y, Shi J, Gu Z, Zhang J, Zhang C, Yan H, Leng J. Does Dysmenorrhea Affect Clinical Features and Long-Term Surgical Outcomes of Patients With Ovarian Endometriosis? A 12-Year Retrospective Observational Cohort Study. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:905688. [PMID: 35783615 PMCID: PMC9243552 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.905688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To examine and compare the differences in clinical characteristics and long-term postoperative outcomes of ovarian endometriomas (OMA) patients with and without dysmenorrhea, including data from at least 8 years of postoperative follow-up examinations. Methods Retrospective analysis of 334 OMA patients, including their demographic and clinical data. Long-term follow-up record was also collected. All laparoscopic cystectomy procedures were performed by the same surgeon at Peking Union Medical College Hospital between January 2009 and April 2013. Patients were divided into the dysmenorrhea and non-dysmenorrhea groups to perform the analysis of their preoperative characteristics, relevant surgical findings, and postoperative outcomes at the follow-up. Results Out of 334 OMA patients, 257 (76.9%) patients were allocated to the dysmenorrhea group, while the rest 77 (23.1%) patients were included in the non-dysmenorrhea group. Compared with the dysmenorrhea group, the non-dysmenorrhea group exhibited a reduced proportion of chronic pelvic pain (CPP) (P = 0.003), dyspareunia (P < 0.001), tenesmus (P < 0.001), concurrency of deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) (P < 0.001), and adenomyosis (P = 0.032). Preoperative infertility was significantly higher in the dysmenorrhea group (P = 0.001). The mean operating time in the dysmenorrhea vs. the non-dysmenorrhea group was 68.0 vs. 56.0 min (P < 0.001). According to the revised American Fertility Society (rAFS) scoring system, the mean scores of the two groups were 52.1 vs. 44.6 (P = 0.033). During follow-up, the dysmenorrhea group showed a higher rate of disease relapse (P < 0.001). A minimum postoperative follow-up period of 8 years was required to evaluate the pregnancy outcomes. Successful pregnancies were identified in 97/257 (37.7%) cases in the dysmenorrhea group and 36/77(46.8%) cases in the non-dysmenorrhea group (P = 0.157), respectively. Though the dysmenorrhea group had a higher rate of postoperative infertility, differences were not significant between the two groups. Conclusions Compared with the dysmenorrhea group, OMA patients without dysmenorrhea exhibited lower proportions of CPP, dyspareunia, tenesmus, lower concurrency of DIE and adenomyosis, shorter mean operating time, lower mean rAFS scores, and lower infertility rates. During the long-term follow-up, a lower recurrence rate was observed in the non-dysmenorrhea group. Regarding fertility outcomes, non-dysmenorrhea patients had a higher likelihood of successful pregnancy after surgery. Postoperative management needs to be evaluated separately according to dysmenorrhea pathology.
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El Idrissi F, Fruchart M, Belarbi K, Lamer A, Dubois-Deruy E, Lemdani M, N’Guessan AL, Guinhouya BC, Zitouni D. Exploration of the core protein network under endometriosis symptomatology using a computational approach. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:869053. [PMID: 36120440 PMCID: PMC9478376 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.869053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometriosis is defined by implantation and invasive growth of endometrial tissue in extra-uterine locations causing heterogeneous symptoms, and a unique clinical picture for each patient. Understanding the complex biological mechanisms underlying these symptoms and the protein networks involved may be useful for early diagnosis and identification of pharmacological targets. METHODS In the present study, we combined three approaches (i) a text-mining analysis to perform a systematic search of proteins over existing literature, (ii) a functional enrichment analysis to identify the biological pathways in which proteins are most involved, and (iii) a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network to identify which proteins modulate the most strongly the symptomatology of endometriosis. RESULTS Two hundred seventy-eight proteins associated with endometriosis symptomatology in the scientific literature were extracted. Thirty-five proteins were selected according to degree and betweenness scores criteria. The most enriched biological pathways associated with these symptoms were (i) Interleukin-4 and Interleukin-13 signaling (p = 1.11 x 10-16), (ii) Signaling by Interleukins (p = 1.11 x 10-16), (iii) Cytokine signaling in Immune system (p = 1.11 x 10-16), and (iv) Interleukin-10 signaling (p = 5.66 x 10-15). CONCLUSION Our study identified some key proteins with the ability to modulate endometriosis symptomatology. Our findings indicate that both pro- and anti-inflammatory biological pathways may play important roles in the symptomatology of endometriosis. This approach represents a genuine systemic method that may complement traditional experimental studies. The current data can be used to identify promising biomarkers for early diagnosis and potential therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatima El Idrissi
- Univ. Lille, UFR 3S, Faculté Ingénierie et Management de la Santé, Lille, France
- Univ. Lille, UFR 3S, Faculté de Pharmacie, Lille, France
| | - Mathilde Fruchart
- Univ. Lille, UFR 3S, Faculté Ingénierie et Management de la Santé, Lille, France
- Univ. Lille, CHU Lille, ULR 2694 - METRICS, Lille, France
| | - Karim Belarbi
- Univ. Lille, UFR 3S, Faculté de Pharmacie, Lille, France
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU-Lille, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, Lille, France
| | - Antoine Lamer
- Univ. Lille, UFR 3S, Faculté Ingénierie et Management de la Santé, Lille, France
- Univ. Lille, CHU Lille, ULR 2694 - METRICS, Lille, France
| | - Emilie Dubois-Deruy
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1167 - RID-AGE - Facteurs de risque et déterminants moléculaires des maladies liées au vieillissement, Lille, France
| | - Mohamed Lemdani
- Univ. Lille, UFR 3S, Faculté de Pharmacie, Lille, France
- Univ. Lille, CHU Lille, ULR 2694 - METRICS, Lille, France
| | - Assi L. N’Guessan
- Univ. Lille, UMR CNRS 8524, Laboratoire Paul Painlevé, Villeneuve d’Ascq, Cedex, France
| | - Benjamin C. Guinhouya
- Univ. Lille, UFR 3S, Faculté Ingénierie et Management de la Santé, Lille, France
- Univ. Lille, CHU Lille, ULR 2694 - METRICS, Lille, France
- *Correspondence: Benjamin C. Guinhouya,
| | - Djamel Zitouni
- Univ. Lille, UFR 3S, Faculté de Pharmacie, Lille, France
- Univ. Lille, CHU Lille, ULR 2694 - METRICS, Lille, France
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McNamara HC, Frawley HC, Donoghue JF, Readman E, Healey M, Ellett L, Reddington C, Hicks LJ, Harlow K, Rogers PAW, Cheng C. Peripheral, Central, and Cross Sensitization in Endometriosis-Associated Pain and Comorbid Pain Syndromes. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2021; 3:729642. [PMID: 36303969 PMCID: PMC9580702 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2021.729642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis-associated pain and the mechanisms responsible for its initiation and persistence are complex and difficult to treat. Endometriosis-associated pain is experienced as dysmenorrhea, cyclical pain related to organ function including dysuria, dyschezia and dyspareunia, and persistent pelvic pain. Pain symptomatology correlates poorly with the extent of macroscopic disease. In addition to the local effects of disease, endometriosis-associated pain develops as a product of peripheral sensitization, central sensitization and cross sensitization. Endometriosis-associated pain is further contributed to by comorbid pain conditions, such as bladder pain syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome, abdomino-pelvic myalgia and vulvodynia. This article will review endometriosis-associated pain, its mechanisms, and its comorbid pain syndromes with a view to aiding the clinician in navigating the literature and terminology of pain and pain syndromes. Limitations of our current understanding of endometriosis-associated pain will be acknowledged. Where possible, commonalities in pain mechanisms between endometriosis-associated pain and comorbid pain syndromes will be highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen C. McNamara
- Royal Women's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- *Correspondence: Helen C. McNamara
| | - Helena C. Frawley
- Royal Women's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- School of Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Mercy Hospital for Women, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Jacqueline F. Donoghue
- Royal Women's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Emma Readman
- Mercy Hospital for Women, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Martin Healey
- Royal Women's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Lenore Ellett
- Mercy Hospital for Women, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Charlotte Reddington
- Royal Women's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Mercy Hospital for Women, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Keryn Harlow
- Mercy Hospital for Women, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Peter A. W. Rogers
- Royal Women's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Claudia Cheng
- Royal Women's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
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9
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Castro J, Maddern J, Grundy L, Manavis J, Harrington AM, Schober G, Brierley SM. A mouse model of endometriosis that displays vaginal, colon, cutaneous, and bladder sensory comorbidities. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21430. [PMID: 33749885 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202002441r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a painful inflammatory disorder affecting ~10% of women of reproductive age. Although chronic pelvic pain (CPP) remains the main symptom of endometriosis patients, adequate treatments for CPP are lacking. Animal models that recapitulate the features and symptoms experienced by women with endometriosis are essential for investigating the etiology of endometriosis, as well as developing new treatments. In this study, we used an autologous mouse model of endometriosis to examine a combination of disease features and symptoms including: a 10 week time course of endometriotic lesion development; the chronic inflammatory environment and development of neuroangiogenesis within lesions; sensory hypersensitivity and altered pain responses to vaginal, colon, bladder, and skin stimulation in conscious animals; and spontaneous animal behavior. We found significant increases in lesion size from week 6 posttransplant. Lesions displayed endometrial glands, stroma, and underwent neuroangiogenesis. Additionally, peritoneal fluid of mice with endometriosis contained known inflammatory mediators and angiogenic factors. Compared to Sham, mice with endometriosis displayed: enhanced sensitivity to pain evoked by (i) vaginal and (ii) colorectal distension, (iii) altered bladder function and increased sensitivity to cutaneous (iv) thermal and (v) mechanical stimuli. The development of endometriosis had no effect on spontaneous behavior. This study describes a comprehensive characterization of a mouse model of endometriosis, recapitulating the clinical features and symptoms experienced by women with endometriosis. Moreover, it delivers the groundwork to investigate the etiology of endometriosis and provides a platform for the development of therapeutical interventions to manage endometriosis-associated CPP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel Castro
- Visceral Pain Research Group, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute (FHMRI), Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA, Australia.,Hopwood Centre for Neurobiology, Lifelong Health Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Jessica Maddern
- Visceral Pain Research Group, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute (FHMRI), Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA, Australia.,Hopwood Centre for Neurobiology, Lifelong Health Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Luke Grundy
- Visceral Pain Research Group, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute (FHMRI), Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA, Australia.,Hopwood Centre for Neurobiology, Lifelong Health Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Jim Manavis
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Andrea M Harrington
- Visceral Pain Research Group, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute (FHMRI), Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA, Australia.,Hopwood Centre for Neurobiology, Lifelong Health Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Gudrun Schober
- Visceral Pain Research Group, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute (FHMRI), Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA, Australia.,Hopwood Centre for Neurobiology, Lifelong Health Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Stuart M Brierley
- Visceral Pain Research Group, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute (FHMRI), Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA, Australia.,Hopwood Centre for Neurobiology, Lifelong Health Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Discipline of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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10
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Clemenza S, Vannuccini S, Capezzuoli T, Meleca CI, Pampaloni F, Petraglia F. Is primary dysmenorrhea a precursor of future endometriosis development? Gynecol Endocrinol 2021; 37:287-293. [PMID: 33569996 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2021.1878134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary dysmenorrhea (PD) is the most common gynecologic disorder during adolescence and it is characterized by crampy lower abdominal pain that occurs during menstruation. Secondary dysmenorrhea, in contrast, has the same clinical features but occurs in women with a disease that could account for their symptoms (endometriosis, adenomyosis, uterine fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease). Endometriosis is the most common cause of secondary dysmenorrhea and it should be considered in patients with persistent and clinically significant dysmenorrhea despite treatment. It is often diagnosed after a long delay, increasing the likelihood of pain chronicity and fertility problems at a later age. Women who suffer from dysmenorrhea in adolescence have higher risk of endometriosis in future. The open question is if endometriosis was already present at the onset of dysmenorrhea but undiagnosed or if PD favors subsequent development of endometriosis-associated pain. Since PD is associated with higher risk for developing chronic pain state and shares some of the same pain pathways of endometriosis (prostaglandins overproduction, inflammation, peripheral sensitization, central sensitization and abnormal stress responses), a correlation between PD and endometriosis is suggested. To know whether it is a risk factor for the development of endometriosis-associated pain may provide an opportunity for early intervention and prevention. The present review aims to investigate the clinical and pathogenetic features of PD and endometriosis in order to identify a possible association between the two conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Clemenza
- Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Silvia Vannuccini
- Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Tommaso Capezzuoli
- Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Chiara Immacolata Meleca
- Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Francesca Pampaloni
- Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Felice Petraglia
- Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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11
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Ding S, Guo X, Zhu L, Wang J, Li T, Yu Q, Zhang X. Macrophage-derived netrin-1 contributes to endometriosis-associated pain. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2021; 9:29. [PMID: 33553322 PMCID: PMC7859736 DOI: 10.21037/atm-20-2161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Background Endometriosis-associated pain can be considered a type of neuropathic pain. Netrin-1 is an axon guidance cue that regulates axonal attraction or rejection in neural injury and regeneration. However, whether netrin-1 plays a role in endometriosis-associated pain remains unclear. This study aimed to determine the role of netrin-1 in endometriosis-related pain. Methods Peripheral blood, peritoneal fluid, and endometrial tissues were sampled from women with (n=37) and without endometriosis (n=23). Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and interferon gamma (IFN-γ) were used to stimulate human monocytic cell lines (THP-1) and rat alveolar macrophage-derived cell lines (NR8383) to induce M1 phenotype macrophages. Serum netrin-1 concentrations, endometrial expression levels of netrin-1, and its receptors including deleted in colorectal cancer (DCC), A2B adenosine receptor (A2BAR), uncoordinated B receptor (UNC5B), uncoordinated C receptor (UNC5C) and Down’s syndrome cell adhesion molecule (DSCAM) were assessed. The polarization phenotypes of the peritoneal macrophages were identified by detecting the marker expression of M1/M2 macrophages via flow cytometry. The expression levels of M1 markers and netrin-1 in THP-1/NR8383 cells were determined. Results The expression levels of netrin-1 in serum and endometriotic lesions were significantly higher in women with endometriosis, and were positively correlated with the severity of endometriosis-associated pain. Netrin-1 was co-expressed with CD68 (a macrophage marker) in endometriotic lesions and was synthesized and secreted by THP-1 and NR8383 cells in the process of M1 polarization. In women with endometriosis, peritoneal macrophages were polarized towards the M1 phenotype. In addition, increased expression of DCC and A2BAR, and decreased expression of UNC5B, UNC5C and DSCAM were found in endometriotic lesions. Conclusions These results suggest that netrin-1 production by macrophages in endometriotic lesions may play an important role in endometriosis-associated pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaojie Ding
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xinyue Guo
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Libo Zhu
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jianzhang Wang
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Tiantian Li
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qin Yu
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xinmei Zhang
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
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12
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Maddern J, Grundy L, Castro J, Brierley SM. Pain in Endometriosis. Front Cell Neurosci 2020; 14:590823. [PMID: 33132854 PMCID: PMC7573391 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2020.590823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a chronic and debilitating condition affecting ∼10% of women. Endometriosis is characterized by infertility and chronic pelvic pain, yet treatment options remain limited. In many respects this is related to an underlying lack of knowledge of the etiology and mechanisms contributing to endometriosis-induced pain. Whilst many studies focus on retrograde menstruation, and the formation and development of lesions in the pathogenesis of endometriosis, the mechanisms underlying the associated pain remain poorly described. Here we review the recent clinical and experimental evidence of the mechanisms contributing to chronic pain in endometriosis. This includes the roles of inflammation, neurogenic inflammation, neuroangiogenesis, peripheral sensitization and central sensitization. As endometriosis patients are also known to have co-morbidities such as irritable bowel syndrome and overactive bladder syndrome, we highlight how common nerve pathways innervating the colon, bladder and female reproductive tract can contribute to co-morbidity via cross-organ sensitization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Maddern
- Visceral Pain Research Group, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Hopwood Centre for Neurobiology, Lifelong Health Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Luke Grundy
- Visceral Pain Research Group, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Hopwood Centre for Neurobiology, Lifelong Health Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Joel Castro
- Visceral Pain Research Group, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Hopwood Centre for Neurobiology, Lifelong Health Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Stuart M. Brierley
- Visceral Pain Research Group, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Hopwood Centre for Neurobiology, Lifelong Health Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Discipline of Medicine, University of Adelaide, North Terrace Campus, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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13
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Hill CJ, Fakhreldin M, Maclean A, Dobson L, Nancarrow L, Bradfield A, Choi F, Daley D, Tempest N, Hapangama DK. Endometriosis and the Fallopian Tubes: Theories of Origin and Clinical Implications. J Clin Med 2020; 9:E1905. [PMID: 32570847 PMCID: PMC7355596 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9061905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Revised: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a common, oestrogen driven chronic condition, where endometrium-like epithelial and stromal cells exist in ectopic sites. At present, no curative treatments are available and the existing evidence for disease progression is conflicting. The pathogenesis is still unknown and evidently complex, as mechanisms of initiation may depend on the anatomical distribution of endometriotic lesions. However, amongst the numerous theories and plethora of mechanisms, contributions of the fallopian tubes (FT) to endometriosis are rarely discussed. The FT are implicated in all endometriosis associated symptomatology and clinical consequences; they may contribute to the origin of endometriotic tissue, determine the sites for ectopic lesion establishment and act as conduits for the spread of proinflammatory media. Here, we examine the available evidence for the contribution of the human FT to the origin, pathogenesis and symptoms/clinical consequences of endometriosis. We also examine the broader topic linking endometriosis and the FT epithelium to the genesis of ovarian epithelial cancers. Further studies elucidating the distinct functional and phenotypical characteristics of FT mucosa may allow the development of novel treatment strategies for endometriosis that are potentially curative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J. Hill
- Centre for Women’s Health Research, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK; (C.J.H.); (A.M.); (L.D.); (L.N.); (A.B.); (F.C.); (D.D.); (N.T.)
| | - Marwa Fakhreldin
- Liverpool Women’s NHS Foundation Trust, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK;
| | - Alison Maclean
- Centre for Women’s Health Research, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK; (C.J.H.); (A.M.); (L.D.); (L.N.); (A.B.); (F.C.); (D.D.); (N.T.)
- Liverpool Women’s NHS Foundation Trust, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK;
| | - Lucy Dobson
- Centre for Women’s Health Research, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK; (C.J.H.); (A.M.); (L.D.); (L.N.); (A.B.); (F.C.); (D.D.); (N.T.)
- Liverpool Women’s NHS Foundation Trust, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK;
| | - Lewis Nancarrow
- Centre for Women’s Health Research, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK; (C.J.H.); (A.M.); (L.D.); (L.N.); (A.B.); (F.C.); (D.D.); (N.T.)
- Liverpool Women’s NHS Foundation Trust, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK;
| | - Alice Bradfield
- Centre for Women’s Health Research, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK; (C.J.H.); (A.M.); (L.D.); (L.N.); (A.B.); (F.C.); (D.D.); (N.T.)
| | - Fiona Choi
- Centre for Women’s Health Research, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK; (C.J.H.); (A.M.); (L.D.); (L.N.); (A.B.); (F.C.); (D.D.); (N.T.)
| | - Diandra Daley
- Centre for Women’s Health Research, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK; (C.J.H.); (A.M.); (L.D.); (L.N.); (A.B.); (F.C.); (D.D.); (N.T.)
| | - Nicola Tempest
- Centre for Women’s Health Research, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK; (C.J.H.); (A.M.); (L.D.); (L.N.); (A.B.); (F.C.); (D.D.); (N.T.)
- Liverpool Women’s NHS Foundation Trust, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK;
| | - Dharani K. Hapangama
- Centre for Women’s Health Research, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK; (C.J.H.); (A.M.); (L.D.); (L.N.); (A.B.); (F.C.); (D.D.); (N.T.)
- Liverpool Women’s NHS Foundation Trust, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK;
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14
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A Proposed Platform for Phenotyping Endometriosis-Associated Pain: Unifying Peripheral and Central Pain Mechanisms. CURRENT OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY REPORTS 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s13669-020-00288-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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15
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Lai ZZ, Yang HL, Ha SY, Chang KK, Mei J, Zhou WJ, Qiu XM, Wang XQ, Zhu R, Li DJ, Li MQ. Cyclooxygenase-2 in Endometriosis. Int J Biol Sci 2019; 15:2783-2797. [PMID: 31853218 PMCID: PMC6909960 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.35128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2019] [Accepted: 07/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis (EMS) is the most common gynecological disease in women of reproductive age, and it is associated with chronic pelvic pain, dyspareunia and infertility. As a consequence of genetic, immune and environmental factors, endometriotic lesions have high cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 and COX-2-derived prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) biosynthesis compared with the normal endometrium. The transcription of the PTGS2 gene for COX-2 is associated with multiple intracellular signals, which converge to cause the activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs). COX-2 expression can be regulated by several factors, such as estrogen, hypoxia, proinflammatory cytokines, environmental pollutants, metabolites and metabolic enzymes, and platelets. High concentrations of COX-2 lead to high cell proliferation, a low level of apoptosis, high invasion, angiogenesis, EMS-related pain and infertility. COX-2-derived PGE2 performs a crucial function in EMS development by binding to EP2 and EP4 receptors. These basic findings have contributed to COX-2-targeted treatment in EMS, including COX-2 inhibitors, hormone drugs and glycyrrhizin. In this review, we summarize the most recent basic research in detail and provide a short summary of COX-2-targeted treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen-Zhen Lai
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui-Li Yang
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, People's Republic of China
| | - Si-Yao Ha
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, People's Republic of China
| | - Kai-Kai Chang
- Department of Gynecology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Mei
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210008, People's Republic of China
| | - We-Jie Zhou
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201204, People's Republic of China
| | - Xue-Min Qiu
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Qiu Wang
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, People's Republic of China
| | - Rui Zhu
- Center for Human Reproduction and Genetics, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Suzhou 215008, People's Republic of China
| | - Da-Jin Li
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, People's Republic of China
| | - Ming-Qing Li
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, People's Republic of China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, People's Republic of China
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16
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Liang Y, Liu D, Yang F, Pan W, Zeng F, Wu J, Xie H, Li J, Yao S. Perineural invasion in endometriotic lesions contributes to endometriosis-associated pain. J Pain Res 2018; 11:1999-2009. [PMID: 30310304 PMCID: PMC6165785 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s168715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Recent studies have shown that abnormal distribution of pelvic nerves contributes to endometriosis-associated pain. However, the relationship between neurogenesis and pain severity in endometriosis still remains uncertain, which makes it an enigma for both gynecologists as well as neuropathologists. In this study, we tried to explore a special phenomenon, perineural invasion (PNI), in deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) and investigated the correlation between PNI- and DIE-associated pain. Patients and methods The study was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University from June 2012 to January 2015. In total, 64 patients with DIE were enrolled. They received laparoscopically surgical resection of endometriotic lesions. The Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney tests were used for comparisons of enumeration data. Spearman rank correlation was used for linear analysis. Results Immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated that PNI was commonly found in DIE lesions. Patients were divided into PNI (+) group and PNI (−) group. The visual analog scale scores of dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, and chronic pelvic pain were higher in PNI (+) group than in PNI (−) group. Also, we found significantly increased density of newly formed nerve fibers as well as microvessels in lesions of PNI (+) group. Further, double immunofluorescence showed a closely spatial nerve–vessel network in the endometriotic lesion of PNI (+) group. More importantly, correlation analysis revealed positive relation between the density of newly formed nerve fibers in the lesion and the density of microvessels in lesions of PNI (+) group. Conclusion This study suggests that PNI in endometriotic lesions plays an important role in endometriosis-associated pain, mainly through a mechanism named “neuroangiogenesis”.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanchun Liang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China,
| | - Duo Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China,
| | - Fan Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China,
| | - Wenwei Pan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China,
| | - Feitianzhi Zeng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China,
| | - Jinjie Wu
- Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Hongyu Xie
- Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Jiaying Li
- Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Shuzhong Yao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China,
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17
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Coxon L, Horne AW, Vincent K. Pathophysiology of endometriosis-associated pain: A review of pelvic and central nervous system mechanisms. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2018.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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18
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Yuan M, Ding S, Meng T, Lu B, Shao S, Zhang X, Yuan H, Hu F. Effect of A-317491 delivered by glycolipid-like polymer micelles on endometriosis pain. Int J Nanomedicine 2017; 12:8171-8183. [PMID: 29184406 PMCID: PMC5687452 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s146569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a common gynecological disease with a lack of effective clinical treatment. Current therapy often results in endometriosis pain recurrence and serious side effects. P2X3 receptor, an adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-gated ion channel, might be implicated in endometriosis pain. In this study, chitosan oligosaccharide-g-stearic acid (CSOSA) polymer micelles-coated nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) were developed as a novel delivery system for A-317491, a selective P2X3 receptor antagonist for endometriosis pain therapy. A-317491-loaded NLC (NLC/A-317491) could be coated by CSOSA micelles to form CSOSA/NLC/A-317491 nanoparticles. Pheochromocytoma PC12 cells, which highly expressed P2X3 receptors, were used as a cell model, and the CSOSA/NLC/A-317491 partly blocked the Ca2+ influx induced by ATP stimulation. In nude mouse and rat endometriotic models, CSOSA/NLC could accumulate into endometriotic lesions after vein injection. In endometriotic rats, CSOSA/NLC/A-317491 reversed mechanical and heat hyperalgesia with long-term efficacy, which might be attributed to the massive CSOSA/NLC/A-317491 distribution in the endometriotic lesions. In conclusion, A-317491 delivered by CSOSA/NLC nanoparticles attenuated endometriosis pain in rats, and CSOSA/NLC/A-317491 could be used as an effective treatment strategy for P2X3-targeted therapy in endometriosis pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Yuan
- Institute of Marine Biology, Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan
| | - Shaojie Ding
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou
| | - Tingting Meng
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Binbin Lu
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shihong Shao
- Institute of Marine Biology, Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan
| | - Xinmei Zhang
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou
| | - Hong Yuan
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Fuqiang Hu
- Institute of Marine Biology, Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan.,Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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Genome-wide association analysis of pain severity in dysmenorrhea identifies association at chromosome 1p13.2, near the nerve growth factor locus. Pain 2017; 157:2571-2581. [PMID: 27454463 PMCID: PMC5436737 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000000678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Supplemental Digital Content is Available in the Text. Genome-wide association study on 11,891 females of European descent for self-reported dysmenorrhea pain severity identified a significant association that colocalises with the NGF locus. Dysmenorrhea is a common chronic pelvic pain syndrome affecting women of childbearing potential. Family studies suggest that genetic background influences the severity of dysmenorrhea, but genetic predisposition and molecular mechanisms underlying dysmenorrhea are not understood. In this study, we conduct the first genome-wide association study to identify genetic factors associated with dysmenorrhea pain severity. A cohort of females of European descent (n = 11,891) aged 18 to 45 years rated their average dysmenorrhea pain severity. We used a linear regression model adjusting for age and body mass index, identifying one genome-wide significant (P < 5 × 10−8) association (rs7523086, P = 4.1 × 10−14, effect size 0.1 [95% confidence interval, 0.074–0.126]). This single nucleotide polymorphism is colocalising with NGF, encoding nerve growth factor. The presence of one risk allele corresponds to a predicted 0.1-point increase in pain intensity on a 4-point ordinal pain scale. The putative effects on NGF function and/or expression remain unknown. However, genetic variation colocalises with active epigenetic marks in fat and ovary tissues, and expression levels in aorta tissue of a noncoding RNA flanking NGF correlate. Participants reporting extreme dysmenorrhea pain were more likely to report being positive for endometriosis, polycystic ovarian syndrome, depression, and other psychiatric disorders. Our results indicate that dysmenorrhea pain severity is partly genetically determined. NGF already has an established role in chronic pain disorders, and our findings suggest that NGF may be an important mediator for gynaecological/pelvic pain in the viscera.
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Cuevas M, Cruz ML, Ramirez AE, Flores I, Thompson KJ, Bayona M, Vernon MW, Appleyard CB. Stress During Development of Experimental Endometriosis Influences Nerve Growth and Disease Progression. Reprod Sci 2017; 25:347-357. [PMID: 29108503 DOI: 10.1177/1933719117737846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE We have previously shown that stress prior to induction worsens clinical presentation and inflammatory parameters in a rat model of endometriosis. This study was designed to examine whether stress during the development of endometriosis can affect the growth of endometriotic implants through nerve growth and immune alterations. METHODS Endometriosis was surgically induced in female Sprague-Dawley rats by suturing uterine horn implants onto the small intestine mesentery. Two weeks later, one group of rats (endo-stress) was subjected to a 10-day swim stress protocol. Controls had no stress (endo-no stress) or sutures only and stress (sham-stress). On day 60, all rats were killed and examined for the presence of endometriotic vesicles. The size of each vesicle was measured. The uterus and colon were removed and assessed for damage, cell infiltration, and expression of nerve growth factor (NGF), its receptors (p75 and Tropomyosin receptor kinase A (Trk-A)/pTrk-A), and calcitonin gene-related peptide, a sensory fiber marker. A differential analysis of peritoneal fluid white blood cell count was performed. RESULTS Stress significantly increased endometriotic vesicle size but not colonic damage and increased infiltration of mast cells. Significantly increased expression of NGF and its receptors was found in the uterus of animals with endometriosis receiving stress. CONCLUSIONS Stress stimulates the development of ectopic endometrial vesicles in an animal model of endometriosis and increases inflammatory cell recruitment to the peritoneum. In addition, stress promotes nerve fiber growth in the uterus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marielly Cuevas
- 1 Department of Basic Sciences, Ponce Research Institute, Ponce Health Sciences University, Ponce, Puerto Rico
| | - Myrella L Cruz
- 1 Department of Basic Sciences, Ponce Research Institute, Ponce Health Sciences University, Ponce, Puerto Rico
| | - Antonio E Ramirez
- 1 Department of Basic Sciences, Ponce Research Institute, Ponce Health Sciences University, Ponce, Puerto Rico
| | - Idhaliz Flores
- 1 Department of Basic Sciences, Ponce Research Institute, Ponce Health Sciences University, Ponce, Puerto Rico
| | - Kenira J Thompson
- 1 Department of Basic Sciences, Ponce Research Institute, Ponce Health Sciences University, Ponce, Puerto Rico
| | - Manuel Bayona
- 1 Department of Basic Sciences, Ponce Research Institute, Ponce Health Sciences University, Ponce, Puerto Rico
- 2 Public Health Program, Ponce Research Institute, Ponce Health Sciences University, Ponce Research Institute, Ponce, Puerto Rico
| | - Michael W Vernon
- 3 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia
| | - Caroline B Appleyard
- 1 Department of Basic Sciences, Ponce Research Institute, Ponce Health Sciences University, Ponce, Puerto Rico
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Yong PJ. Deep Dyspareunia in Endometriosis: A Proposed Framework Based on Pain Mechanisms and Genito-Pelvic Pain Penetration Disorder. Sex Med Rev 2017; 5:495-507. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sxmr.2017.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2017] [Revised: 06/19/2017] [Accepted: 06/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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22
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Ding S, Zhu L, Tian Y, Zhu T, Huang X, Zhang X. P2X3 receptor involvement in endometriosis pain via ERK signaling pathway. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0184647. [PMID: 28898282 PMCID: PMC5595329 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0184647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2017] [Accepted: 08/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The purinergic receptor P2X ligand-gated ion channel 3 (P2X3) is crucially involved in peripheral nociceptive processes of somatic and visceral pain. Endometriosis pain is considered as a kind of inflammatory and neuropathic pain. However, whether P2X3 is involved in endometriosis pain has not been reported up to date. Here, we aimed to determine whether P2X3 expression in endometriotic lesions is involved in endometriosis pain, which is regulated by inflammatory mediators through extracellular regulated protein kinases (ERK) signalling pathway. We found that P2X3 expressions in endometriosis endometrium and endometriotic lesions were both significantly higher as compared with control endometrium (P<0.05), and both positively correlated with pain (P<0.05). The expression levels of phosphorylated –ERK (p-ERK), phosphorylated-cAMP-response element binding protein (p-CREB), and P2X3 in endometriotic stromal cells (ESCs) were all significantly increased in comparison to the initial levels after treated with interleukin (IL)-1β (P<0.05) or adenosine triphosphate (ATP) (P<0.05), respectively, and did not increase after the ESCs were pre-treated with ERK1/2 inhibitor. Additionally, P2X3 and calcitonin gene related peptide (CGRP) were co-expressed in endometriotic lesions. These obtained results suggest that P2X3 might be involved in endometriosis pain signal transduction via ERK signal pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaojie Ding
- Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Libo Zhu
- Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Yonghong Tian
- Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Tianhong Zhu
- Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Xiufeng Huang
- Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Xinmei Zhang
- Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
- * E-mail:
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Peng B, Zhan H, Alotaibi F, Alkusayer GM, Bedaiwy MA, Yong PJ. Nerve Growth Factor Is Associated With Sexual Pain in Women With Endometriosis. Reprod Sci 2017; 25:540-549. [DOI: 10.1177/1933719117716778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Bo Peng
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Child & Family Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Hong Zhan
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Child & Family Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Fahad Alotaibi
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Child & Family Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Ghadeer M. Alkusayer
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed A. Bedaiwy
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Child & Family Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- BC Women’s Centre for Pelvic Pain and Endometriosis, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Paul J. Yong
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Child & Family Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- BC Women’s Centre for Pelvic Pain and Endometriosis, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Börner C, Scheerer C, Buschow R, Chiantera V, Sehouli J, Mechsner S. Pain Mechanisms in Peritoneal Diseases Might Be Partially Regulated by Estrogen. Reprod Sci 2017; 25:424-434. [PMID: 28659008 DOI: 10.1177/1933719117715126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
To identify factors influencing the differential pain pathogenesis in peritoneal endometriosis (pEM) and peritoneal carcinomatosis in ovarian cancer (pOC), we undertook an experimental study. Tissue samples of 18 patients with pEM, 15 patients with pOC, and 15 unaffected peritoneums as controls were collected during laparoscopy or laparotomy. Immunohistochemical stainings were conducted to identify nerve fibers and neurotrophins in the tissue samples. Additionally, 23 pEM fluids, 25 pOC ascites fluids, and 20 peritoneal fluids of patients with myoma uteri as controls were collected. In these fluids, the expression of neurotrophins was evaluated. The effects of peritoneal fluids and ascites on the neurite outgrowth of chicken sensory ganglia were estimated by using a neuronal growth assay. An electrochemiluminescence immunoassay was carried out to determine the expression of estrogen in the peritoneal fluids and ascites. The total and sensory nerve fiber density was significantly higher in pEM than in pOC ( P < .001 and P < .01). All neurotrophins tested were present in tissue and fluid samples of pEM and pOC. Furthermore, the neurotrophic properties of pEM and pOC fluids were demonstrated, leading to sensory nerve fiber outgrowth. Estrogen concentration in the peritoneal fluids of pEM was significantly higher compared to ascites of pOC ( P < .001). The total and sensory nerve fiber density in the tissue samples as well as the estrogen expression in the peritoneal fluid of pEM was considerably higher than that in pOC, representing the most notable difference found in both diseases. This might explain the differential pain perception in pEM and pOC. Therefore, estrogen might be a key factor in influencing the genesis of pain in endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Börner
- 1 Department of Gynecology, Endometriosis Research Centre Charité, Charité, Hindenburgdamm, Berlin, Germany
| | - Claudia Scheerer
- 1 Department of Gynecology, Endometriosis Research Centre Charité, Charité, Hindenburgdamm, Berlin, Germany
| | - Rene Buschow
- 1 Department of Gynecology, Endometriosis Research Centre Charité, Charité, Hindenburgdamm, Berlin, Germany
| | - Vito Chiantera
- 1 Department of Gynecology, Endometriosis Research Centre Charité, Charité, Hindenburgdamm, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jalid Sehouli
- 1 Department of Gynecology, Endometriosis Research Centre Charité, Charité, Hindenburgdamm, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sylvia Mechsner
- 1 Department of Gynecology, Endometriosis Research Centre Charité, Charité, Hindenburgdamm, Berlin, Germany
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Wu J, Xie H, Yao S, Liang Y. Macrophage and nerve interaction in endometriosis. J Neuroinflammation 2017; 14:53. [PMID: 28288663 PMCID: PMC5351283 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-017-0828-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2016] [Accepted: 02/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Dysregulation of the immune system in endometriotic milieus has been considered to play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. Macrophage recruitment and nerve fiber infiltration are the two major characteristics of this aberrant immune environment. First, the recruitment of macrophages and their polarization phenotype within the endometriotic lesion have been demonstrated to facilitate the development and maintenance of endometriosis. M1 phenotype of macrophages has the capacity to secrete multiple cytokines for inflammatory response, while M2 macrophage possesses an opposite property that can mediate the process of immunosuppression and neuroangiogenesis. Upon secretion of multiple abnormal signal molecules by the endometriotic lesion, macrophages could alter their location and phenotype. These changes facilitate the accommodation of the aberrant microenvironment and the exacerbation of disease progression. Second, the infiltration of nerve fibers and their abnormal distribution are proved to be involved in the generation of endometriosis-associated pain and inflammatory response. An imbalance in sensory and sympathetic innervation and the abnormal secretion of different cytokines could mediate neurogenesis and subsequent peripheral neuroinflammation in endometriosis. Although endometriosis creates an inflammatory milieu promoting macrophage infiltration and an imbalanced innervation, interaction between macrophages and nerve fibers in this process remains unknown. The aim of this review is to highlight the role of macrophage and nerve interaction in endometriosis, where macrophage recruitment and neurogenesis can be the underlying mechanism of neuroinflammation and pathogenesis of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinjie Wu
- Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510089 China
| | - Hongyu Xie
- Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510089 China
| | - Shuzhong Yao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 58, the 2nd Zhongshan Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, 510080 Guangdong Province China
| | - Yanchun Liang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 58, the 2nd Zhongshan Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, 510080 Guangdong Province China
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Drospirenone reduces inflammatory cytokines, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and nerve growth factor (NGF) expression in human endometriotic stromal cells. J Reprod Immunol 2017; 119:44-48. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2016.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2016] [Revised: 11/23/2016] [Accepted: 12/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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27
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Carey ET, Till SR, As-Sanie S. Pharmacological Management of Chronic Pelvic Pain in Women. Drugs 2017; 77:285-301. [DOI: 10.1007/s40265-016-0687-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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28
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New developments in the pharmacotherapy of neuropathic chronic pelvic pain. Future Sci OA 2016; 2:FSO148. [PMID: 28116131 PMCID: PMC5242194 DOI: 10.4155/fsoa-2016-0048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2016] [Accepted: 09/09/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Advancements in further understanding the pathophysiology of chronic pelvic pain syndromes continue to direct therapy. The mechanisms of chronic pelvic pain are often multifactorial and therefore require a multidisciplinary approach. The final treatment plan is often an accumulation of organ-specific treatment and chronic pain medications directed to the CNS and PNS. This article is a review of commonly used medications for chronic pelvic neuropathic pain disorders as well as an introduction to recent innovative developments in pain medicine.
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Dewanto A, Dudas J, Glueckert R, Mechsner S, Schrott-Fischer A, Wildt L, Seeber B. Localization of TrkB and p75 receptors in peritoneal and deep infiltrating endometriosis: an immunohistochemical study. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2016; 14:43. [PMID: 27519317 PMCID: PMC4982126 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-016-0178-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2016] [Accepted: 07/29/2016] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The roles of the neurotrophins NGF (Neurotrophic growth factor) and BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) in neuronal growth and development are already known. Meanwhile, the neurotrophin receptors TrkA (tropomyosin related kinase A), TrkB, and p75 are important for determining the fate of cells. In endometriosis, this complex system has not been fully elucidated yet. The aim of this study was to evaluate the expression and location of these neurotrophins and their receptors in peritoneal (PE) and deep infiltrating endometriotic (DIE) tissues and to measure and compare the density of nerve fibers in the disease subtypes. METHODS PE lesions (n = 20) and DIE lesions (n = 22) were immunostained and analyzed on serial slides with anti-BDNF, -NGF, -TrkA, -TrkB, -p75,-protein gene product 9.5 (PGP9.5, intact nerve fibers) and -tyrosine hydroxylase (TH, sympathetic nerve fibers) antibodies. RESULT There was an equally high percentage (greater than 75 %) of BDNF-positive immunostaining cells in both PE and DIE. TrkB (major BDNF receptor) and p75 showed a higher percentage of immunostaining cells in DIE compared to in PE in stroma only (p < 0.014, p < 0.027, respectively). Both gland and stroma of DIE lesions had a lower percentage of NGF-positive immunostaining cells compared to those in PE lesions (p < 0.01 and p < 0.01, respectively), but there was no significant reduction in immunostaining of TrkA in DIE lesions. There was no difference in the mean density of nerve fibers stained with PGP9.5 between PE (26.27 ± 17.32) and DIE (28.19 ± 33.15, p = 0.8). When we performed sub-group analysis, the density of nerves was significantly higher in the bowel DIE (mean 57.33 ± 43.9) than in PE (mean 26.27 ± 17.32, p < 0.01) and non-bowel DIE (mean 14.6. ± 8.6 p < 0.002). CONCLUSIONS While the neurotrophin BDNF is equally present in PE and DIE, its receptors TrkB and p75 are more highly expressed in DIE and may have a potential role in the pathophysiology of DIE, especially in promotion of cell growth. BDNF has a stronger binding affinity than NGF to the p75 receptor, likely inducing sympathetic nerve axonal pruning in DIE, resulting in the lower nerve fiber density seen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agung Dewanto
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, Innsbruck, 6020 Austria
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gadjah Mada University, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Jozsef Dudas
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Rudolf Glueckert
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Sylvia Mechsner
- Endometriosis Centre Charité, Department of Gynecology - Campus Benjamin Franklin, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Ludwig Wildt
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, Innsbruck, 6020 Austria
| | - Beata Seeber
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, Innsbruck, 6020 Austria
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Yan D, Liu X, Guo SW. Nerve fibers and endometriotic lesions: partners in crime in inflicting pains in women with endometriosis. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2016; 209:14-24. [PMID: 27418559 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2016.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2016] [Revised: 06/13/2016] [Accepted: 06/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
One of major objectives in treating endometriosis is to alleviate pain since dysmenorrhea and other types of pain top the list of complaints from women with endometriosis who seek medical attention. Indeed, endometriosis-associated pain (EAP) is the most debilitating of the disease that negatively impacts on the quality of life in affected women, contributing significantly to the burden of disease and adding to the substantial personal and societal costs. Unfortunately, the mechanisms underlying the EAP are still poorly understood. In the last two decades, one active research field in endometriosis is the investigation on the distribution and genesis of nerve fibers in eutopic and ectopic endometrium, and the attempt to use endometrial nerve fiber density for diagnostic purpose. Since EAP presumably starts with the terminal sensory nerves, in or around endometriotic lesions, that transduce noxious mediators to the central nervous system (CNS) which ultimately perceives pain, this field of research holds the promise to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the EAP, thus opening new avenues for novel diagnostics and therapeutics. In this review, we shall first briefly provide some basic facts on nerve fibers, and then provide an overview of some major findings in this filed while also note some conflicting results and expose areas in need of further research. We point out that since recently accumulated evidence suggests that endometriotic lesions are wounds undergoing repeated tissue injury and repair, the relationship between endometriotic lesions and nerve fibers is not simply unidirectional, i.e. lesions promote hyperinnervations. Rather, it is bidirectional, i.e. endometriotic lesions and nerve fibers engage active cross-talks, resulting in the development of endometriosis and pain. That is, nerve fibers and endometriotic lesions are actually partners in crime in inflicting pains in women with endometriosis, aided and abetted possibly by other culprits, some yet to be identified. We provide a list of possible perpetrators likely to be involved in this crime. Finally, we discuss possible implications when viewing the relationship from this vista.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dingmin Yan
- Shanghai OB/GYN Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Xishi Liu
- Shanghai OB/GYN Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Sun-Wei Guo
- Shanghai OB/GYN Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this review was to highlight recent advances in our understanding of the pathogenesis of malignant transformation of endometriosis. METHODS This study reviewed the English-language literature concerning basic science studies of the potential promotion of carcinogenesis. RESULTS Repeated episodes of hemorrhage occur in endometriosis at the onset of menstruation. Extracellular hemoglobin, heme, and iron derivatives in endometriosis cause DNA damage and mutations, which create increased cellular susceptibility to oxidant-mediated cell killing. Excess DNA damage and mutations are linked to cell death, but not carcinogenesis. In response to an oxidative and inflammatory microenvironment, endometriotic cells and macrophages secrete antioxidants that control excess oxidative stress in the surrounding environment. Exposure of endometriotic cells to a sublethal level of oxidative stress may lead to carcinogenesis. Macrophages also secrete immunosuppressive factors that lead to promotion of malignant transformation. DISCUSSION At least two potential scenarios could result in ovarian cancer arising from endometriosis. The first step: extracellular hemoglobin, heme, and iron cause cellular oxidative damage by promoting reactive oxygen species formation, which results in DNA damage and mutations (ovarian cancer initiation from endometriosis). The second step: cancer progression may be associated with persistent antioxidant production favoring a protumoral microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Kobayashi
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Nara Medical University , Japan
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Expression of microtubule associated protein 2 and synaptophysin in endometrium: high levels in deep infiltrating endometriosis lesions. Fertil Steril 2016; 105:435-43. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2015.10.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2015] [Revised: 10/19/2015] [Accepted: 10/26/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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Williams C, Hoang L, Yosef A, Alotaibi F, Allaire C, Brotto L, Fraser IS, Bedaiwy MA, Ng TL, Lee AF, Yong PJ. Nerve Bundles and Deep Dyspareunia in Endometriosis. Reprod Sci 2015; 23:892-901. [DOI: 10.1177/1933719115623644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Christina Williams
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Lien Hoang
- Department of Pathology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Ali Yosef
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Fahad Alotaibi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Catherine Allaire
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Lori Brotto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Ian S. Fraser
- School of Women’s and Children’s Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Mohamed A. Bedaiwy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Tony L. Ng
- Department of Pathology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Anna F. Lee
- Department of Pathology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Paul J. Yong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
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McKinnon BD, Bertschi D, Bersinger NA, Mueller MD. Inflammation and nerve fiber interaction in endometriotic pain. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2015; 26:1-10. [PMID: 25465987 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2014.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2014] [Revised: 10/03/2014] [Accepted: 10/21/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis is an extremely prevalent estrogen-dependent condition characterized by the growth of ectopic endometrial tissue outside the uterine cavity, and is often presented with severe pain. Although the relationship between lesion and pain remains unclear, nerve fibers found in close proximity to endometriotic lesions may be related to pain. Also, women with endometriosis pain develop central sensitization. Endometriosis creates an inflammatory environment and recent research is beginning to elucidate the role of inflammation in stimulating peripheral nerve sensitization. In this review, we discuss endometriosis-associated inflammation, peripheral nerve fibers, and assess their potential mechanism of interaction. We propose that an interaction between lesions and nerve fibers, mediated by inflammation, may be important in endometriosis-associated pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brett D McKinnon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Inselspital, Berne University Hospital, Effingerstrasse 102, Berne CH-3010, Switzerland; Department of Clinical Research, University of Berne, Murtenstrasse 35, Berne CH-3010, Switzerland.
| | - Dominic Bertschi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Inselspital, Berne University Hospital, Effingerstrasse 102, Berne CH-3010, Switzerland
| | - Nick A Bersinger
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Inselspital, Berne University Hospital, Effingerstrasse 102, Berne CH-3010, Switzerland; Department of Clinical Research, University of Berne, Murtenstrasse 35, Berne CH-3010, Switzerland
| | - Michael D Mueller
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Inselspital, Berne University Hospital, Effingerstrasse 102, Berne CH-3010, Switzerland; Department of Clinical Research, University of Berne, Murtenstrasse 35, Berne CH-3010, Switzerland
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Li Y, Zou S, Xia X, Zhang S. Human Adenomyosis Endometrium Stromal Cells Secreting More Nerve Growth Factor: Impact and Effect. Reprod Sci 2014; 22:1073-82. [PMID: 25519715 DOI: 10.1177/1933719114561559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Abnormal expression of nerve growth factor (NGF) was found in adenomyosis (AM). We collected AM foci from patients and eutopic endometrium from non-AM controls. Endometrium stromal cells (ESCs) were cultured. Different levels of 17β-estradiol, tumor necrosis factor (TNF), CoCl2, and H2O2 were added to the culture system separately, then the expression level of NGF in ESCs was detected. After adding different levels of NGF, the proliferation and apoptosis of ESCs and aromatase expression were detected. We found that 17β-estradiol promoted NGF production in AM ESCs but not in control ESCs; TNF promoted NGF production in both AM and control ESCs; and CoCl2 inhibited NGF production in control ESCs, but had no effect in AM ESCs. Nerve growth factor promoted the proliferation and synthesis of aromatase in AM ESCs. In conclusion, locally increased estrogen levels and inflammation may cause increased NGF production in the uterus of patients with AM. Nerve growth factor stimulated the proliferation and increased aromatase expression of ESCs from AM foci, suggesting NGF might contribute to the pathology and etiology of AM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Li
- Department of Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Gynaecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China Reproductive Medicine Center, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shien Zou
- Department of Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Gynaecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xian Xia
- Department of Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Gynaecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shaofen Zhang
- Department of Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Gynaecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Using Symptom Scores, Lifestyle Measures and Biochemical Markers to Create a Test for Endometriosis. JOURNAL OF ENDOMETRIOSIS AND PELVIC PAIN DISORDERS 2014. [DOI: 10.5301/je.5000194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this study was to develop a test to discriminate between women suffering from pelvic pain associated with presence or absence of endometriosis, using symptom visual analogue scale (VAS) scores, demographic and lifestyle factors and known and novel plasma biomarkers. Methods This was a prospective cohort study. We recruited women presenting with pelvic pain symptoms and undergoing laparoscopy. They provided a plasma sample and completed a questionnaire assessing symptom VAS scores, lifestyle factors and demographic details. Plasma was assayed for 18 potential biomarkers. Logistic regression was used to develop a test to discriminate between women with pelvic pain associated with presence or absence of endometriosis. Results A series of 101 women were analyzed. On univariate analysis, women with endometriosis were less likely to be parous or have previously used an intrauterine contraceptive device (IUD) but have a higher weekly alcohol intake. These women had higher VAS scores for nausea and dyspareunia, and higher plasma levels of cancer antigen 125 (CA-125). The optimum logistic regression model included parity, previous IUD use, history of endometriosis, weekly alcohol intake, dyspareunia, VAS score and CA-125. This model had a sensitivity of 93%, specificity of 62% and accuracy of 83%. Conclusions Combining symptom scores, historical measures and CA-125 provides a reasonable means to discriminate between women with pelvic pain associated with presence or absence of endometriosis, but greater specificity is needed before such a model could replace laparoscopy.
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Morotti M, Vincent K, Brawn J, Zondervan KT, Becker CM. Peripheral changes in endometriosis-associated pain. Hum Reprod Update 2014; 20:717-36. [PMID: 24859987 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmu021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pain remains the cardinal symptom of endometriosis. However, to date, the underlying mechanisms are still only poorly understood. Increasing evidence points towards a close interaction between peripheral nerves, the peritoneal environment and the central nervous system in pain generation and processing. Recently, studies demonstrating nerve fibres and neurotrophic and angiogenic factors in endometriotic lesions and their vicinity have led to increased interest in peripheral changes in endometriosis-associated pain. This review focuses on the origin and function of these nerves and factors as well as possible peripheral mechanisms that may contribute to the generation and modulation of pain in women with endometriosis. METHODS We conducted a systematic search using several databases (PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE and CINAHL) of publications from January 1977 to October 2013 to evaluate the possible roles of the peripheral nervous system in endometriosis pathophysiology and how it can contribute to endometriosis-associated pain. RESULTS Endometriotic lesions and peritoneal fluid from women with endometriosis had pronounced neuroangiogenic properties with increased expression of new nerve fibres, a shift in the distribution of sensory and autonomic fibres in some locations, and up-regulation of several neurotrophins. In women suffering from deep infiltrating endometriosis and bowel endometriosis, in which the anatomical distribution of lesions is generally more closely related to pelvic pain symptoms, endometriotic lesions and surrounding tissues present higher nerve fibre densities compared with peritoneal lesions and endometriomas. More data are needed to fully confirm a direct correlation between fibre density in these locations and the amount of perceived pain. A better correlation between the presence of nerve fibres and pain symptoms seems to exist for eutopic endometrium. However, this appears not to be exclusive to endometriosis. No correlation between elevated neurotrophin levels and pain severity appears to exist, suggesting the involvement of other mediators in the modulation of pain. CONCLUSIONS The increased expression of neurotrophic factors and nerve fibres in endometriotic lesions, eutopic endometrium and the peritoneum imply a role of such peripheral changes in the pathogenesis of endometriosis-associated pain. However, a clear link between these findings and pain in patients with endometriosis has so far not been demonstrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Morotti
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Genoa, Genoa 16100, Italy
| | - Katy Vincent
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Jennifer Brawn
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Krina T Zondervan
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7BN, UK
| | - Christian M Becker
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
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