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Xu M, Liu D, Wang L. Role of oxylipins in ovarian function and disease: A comprehensive review. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 178:117242. [PMID: 39094547 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.117242] [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: 05/29/2024] [Revised: 07/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Ovaries are essential for healthy female reproduction, with the follicles as their fundamental functional units, which consist of an oocyte and surrounding granulosa cells. The development and formation of follicles in the ovaries are closely linked to reproductive health. Oxylipins refer to oxidative metabolites produced from the oxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acids, either through automatic oxidation or with the help of specific enzymes. They play crucial regulatory roles in the immune system, oxidative stress, and inflammatory reactions and are intimately linked to the development of numerous illnesses, such as diabetes, heart disease, asthma, and Alzheimer's disease. Furthermore, oxylipins have a complex relationship with ovarian function, and both prostaglandins and leukotrienes produced by arachidonic acid affect processes such as follicle growth and development, ovulation, and hormone regulation. The synthesis and metabolism of oxylipins in the ovaries are finely regulated. Oxylipin dysregulation has been linked to various ovarian diseases, including endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome, ovarian cancer, and premature ovarian insufficiency. In addition, potential therapeutic targets and interventions targeting the oxylipin pathway for the treatment of ovarian diseases have become a prominent research focus, including regulating the enzymes responsible for oxylipin synthesis, using anti-inflammatory agents, and regulating lipid metabolism. Recent research has been directed towards improving the reproductive outcomes of women with ovarian diseases through this series of interventions. An overview of the role of oxylipins in ovarian function and disease is provided in this article, which will aid researchers in understanding the current state of the field and in identifying future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengting Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China; Medical Research Center of Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China; Key Laboratory of Research and Application of Animal Model for Environmental and Metabolic Diseases, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Dan Liu
- Finance Department of Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China.
| | - Lili Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China; Medical Research Center of Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China; Key Laboratory of Research and Application of Animal Model for Environmental and Metabolic Diseases, Liaoning Province, China.
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Marquardt RM, Tran DN, Lessey BA, Rahman MS, Jeong JW. Epigenetic Dysregulation in Endometriosis: Implications for Pathophysiology and Therapeutics. Endocr Rev 2023; 44:1074-1095. [PMID: 37409951 PMCID: PMC10638603 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnad020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a prevalent gynecological condition associated with pelvic pain and infertility. Despite more than a century of research, the etiology of endometriosis still eludes scientific consensus. This lack of clarity has resulted in suboptimal prevention, diagnosis, and treatment options. Evidence of genetic contributors to endometriosis is interesting but limited; however, significant progress has been made in recent years in identifying an epigenetic role in the pathogenesis of endometriosis through clinical studies, in vitro cell culture experiments, and in vivo animal models. The predominant findings include endometriosis-related differential expression of DNA methyltransferases and demethylases, histone deacetylases, methyltransferases, and demethylases, and regulators of chromatin architecture. There is also an emerging role for miRNAs in controlling epigenetic regulators in the endometrium and endometriosis. Changes in these epigenetic regulators result in differential chromatin organization and DNA methylation, with consequences for gene expression independent of a genetic sequence. Epigenetically altered expression of genes related to steroid hormone production and signaling, immune regulation, and endometrial cell identity and function have all been identified and appear to play into the pathophysiological mechanisms of endometriosis and resulting infertility. This review summarizes and critically discusses early seminal findings, the ever-growing recent evidence of epigenetic contributions to the pathophysiology of endometriosis, and implications for proposed epigenetically targeted therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan M Marquardt
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Dinh Nam Tran
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Bruce A Lessey
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wake Forest Baptist Health, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Md Saidur Rahman
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Jae-Wook Jeong
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
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3
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Mikhaleva LM, Radzinsky VE, Orazov MR, Khovanskaya TN, Sorokina AV, Mikhalev SA, Volkova SV, Shustova VB, Sinelnikov MY. Current Knowledge on Endometriosis Etiology: A Systematic Review of Literature. Int J Womens Health 2021; 13:525-537. [PMID: 34104002 PMCID: PMC8179825 DOI: 10.2147/ijwh.s306135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To review the mechanisms of endometriosis development, including those related to epigenetic mutations, cellular dysregulation, inflammatory processes, and oxidative stress. Methods A systematic literature review regarding current aspects of endometriosis etiology, genesis and development was performed using the PubMed, Google Scholar, and eLibrary databases. Keywords included endometriosis, etiology, development, genesis, associations and mechanisms. A multilingual search was performed. Results Several mechanisms underline the pathophysiological pathways for endometriosis development. Epigenetic mutations, external and internal influences, and chronic conditions have a significant impact on endometriosis development, survival and regulation. Several historically valid theories on endometriosis development were discussed, as well as updated findings. Conclusion Despite recent advances, fundamental problems in understanding endometriosis remain unresolved. The identification of unknown circulating epithelial progenitors or stem cells that are responsible for epithelial growth in both the endometrium and endometriotic foci seems to be the next step in solving these questions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lyudmila M Mikhaleva
- Laboratory of Clinical Morphology, Research Institute of Human Morphology, Moscow, Russia
| | | | | | - Tatyana N Khovanskaya
- Laboratory of Clinical Morphology, Research Institute of Human Morphology, Moscow, Russia
| | - Anastasia V Sorokina
- Laboratory of Clinical Morphology, Research Institute of Human Morphology, Moscow, Russia
| | | | | | - Victoria B Shustova
- Laboratory of Clinical Morphology, Research Institute of Human Morphology, Moscow, Russia
| | - Mikhail Y Sinelnikov
- Laboratory of Clinical Morphology, Research Institute of Human Morphology, Moscow, Russia
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4
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Yang Z, Xu CP, Chen Y, Li W, Wang L, Yuan ZG. A Novel Mechanical-Based Injective Hydrogel for Treatment with Aromatase Inhibitors Caused Joint Inflammation via the NF-κB Pathway. ACS OMEGA 2021; 6:10242-10249. [PMID: 34056178 PMCID: PMC8153782 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.1c00580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Synovium has widely participated in induced inflammation, suggesting that it is a potential target to reduce aromatase inhibitors (AIs) causing joint inflammation or pain. Exercise and mechanical stimulation are important strategies for precaution and treatment of bone inflammation. In this work, we developed a novel thermo-sensitive hydrogel, which could be injected intra-articularly. The aim of this research was to investigate the role of various mechanical strength hydrogels in reducing synovium inflammation. The effect of different mechanical strength hydrogels on regulating synovium inflammation was used to stimulate human fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) under a cyclic mechanical compression environment in vitro. Cytokine and metalloprotease expression in FLS was analyzed by the western blot and q-PCR method, in which FLS were cultured with the different mechanical strength hydrogels. The results showed that a moderate-intensity hydrogel mechanical stimulation might be suitable in reducing AI-induced FLS inflammation via the NK-κB pathway. In addition, we built an AI-treated rat model and injected the different mechanical strength hydrogels. Similarly, the moderate-strength mechanical hydrogel could reduce the inflammatory factor and metalloproteinase expression in synovial tissues and intra-articular synovia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zipeng Yang
- Laboratory
of Parasitology College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Chang-Peng Xu
- Department
of Orthopaedics, Guangdong Second Provincial
General Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510317, P.R. China
| | - Yuhui Chen
- Orthopedic
Hospital of Guangdong Province, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical
University, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Wenqiang Li
- Guangzhou
Sport University, Guangzhou 510500, China
| | - Liping Wang
- UniSA
Cancer Research Institute, UniSA Clinical & Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia
| | - Zi-Guo Yuan
- Laboratory
of Parasitology College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510000, China
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Szmidt MK, Granda D, Sicinska E, Kaluza J. Primary Dysmenorrhea in Relation to Oxidative Stress and Antioxidant Status: A Systematic Review of Case-Control Studies. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:E994. [PMID: 33076228 PMCID: PMC7602455 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9100994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Revised: 10/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary dysmenorrhea is defined as painful menstrual cramps of uterine origin in the absence of pelvic pathology and is the most common gynecological disorder among women of reproductive age. The aim of this study was to systematically review case-control studies that have investigated the oxidative stress, antioxidant status, and inflammation markers among women with primary dysmenorrhea and controls. The study protocol was registered with PROSPERO (no. CRD42020183104). By searching PubMed and Scopus databases as well as reference lists, six case-control studies with fifteen eligible markers (seven oxidative stress, seven antioxidant status, one inflammation) were included in this review. The quality of the included studies was assessed as medium or high. The systematic review included 175 women with primary dysmenorrhea and 161 controls. The results indicate an elevated level of oxidative stress, especially of lipid peroxidation among dysmenorrheal women. For the antioxidant status, limited evidence was found for a lower status among primary dysmenorrhea women, and only one study examined one inflammation marker (hs-CRP), which makes it impossible for such a conclusion. To establish whether oxidative stress, antioxidant status or inflammation participate in the pathophysiology of primary dysmenorrhea, high-quality studies with larger study groups and clear case definitions are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Karolina Szmidt
- Institute of Human Nutrition Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences–SGGW, 159C Nowoursynowska Str., 02-776 Warsaw, Poland; (D.G.); (E.S.); (J.K.)
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Ekiz-Yilmaz T, Isildar B, Gezer A, Kankaya D, Cansiz-Ersoz C, Kayisli UA, Guzel E. The role of unfolded protein response in the pathogenesis of endometriosis: contribution of peritoneal fluid. Reprod Biomed Online 2020; 42:1-15. [PMID: 33109440 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2020.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Revised: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) is caused by the accumulation of the misfolded or unfolded proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum and induces the unfolded protein response (UPR). Peritoneal fluid is important in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. In this study, the role of UPR associated with ERS in endometriosis, and peritoneal fluid, were investigated. DESIGN Normal, eutopic and ectopic endometrium tissues were divided into menstrual cycle phases, and endometrial stromal cells (ESC) were treated with 10-20% concentration of control peritoneal fluid and peritoneal fluid obtained from women with endometriosis for 10, 30 and 60 min, and 24 and 48 h. The UPR signalling proteins were analysed immunohistochemically and immunocytochemically. Data were compared statistically. RESULTS p-IRE1 was increased in ectopic glandular and stromal cells in the early proliferative phase compared with normal and eutopic endometrium. p-PERK increased in ectopic glandular and stromal cells in the late proliferative phase compared with normal endometrium. ATF6 was increased in ectopic glandular epithelium compared with normal endometrium in the proliferative phases, versus eutopic endometrium in the late secretory phase. p-IRE1 and p-PERK were increased in high concentrations of ESC treated with peritoneal fluid obtained from women with endometriosis for 10, 30 and 60 min compared with controls. In ESC treated with peritoneal fluid from women with endometriosis, p-IRE1 decreased at 24-48 h compared with 30 min. CONCLUSIONS In endometriosis, UPR pathways are activated as highly dependent on cell type and phase. Also, p-PERK and p-IRE1 increased because of exposure to high-dose peritoneal fluid from women with endometriosis in stromal cells. Our findings provide a basis for further studies searching for a potential biomarker for the diagnosis of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tugba Ekiz-Yilmaz
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Cerrahpaşa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Istanbul 34098, Turkey
| | - Basak Isildar
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Cerrahpaşa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Istanbul 34098, Turkey
| | - Altay Gezer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cerrahpaşa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Istanbul 34098, Turkey
| | - Duygu Kankaya
- Department of Medical Pathology, Ankara Faculty of Medicine, Ankara University, Ankara 06100, Turkey
| | - Cevriye Cansiz-Ersoz
- Department of Medical Pathology, Ankara Faculty of Medicine, Ankara University, Ankara 06100, Turkey
| | - Umit Ali Kayisli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa FL 33612, USA
| | - Elif Guzel
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Cerrahpaşa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Istanbul 34098, Turkey.
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Aberrant Overexpression of RNA-Editing Enzyme ADAR1 Promotes the Progression of Endometriosis. Reprod Sci 2020; 27:575-584. [PMID: 32046435 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-019-00057-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Considerable efforts have been invested to elucidate the potential mechanisms involved in the physiopathology of endometriosis. However, to date, prior research has not been conclusive. This research has examined one particular mechanism, i.e., the effect of ADAR1 on endometriosis lesions. Eutopic endometrium was collected from women with (n = 25) and without endometriosis (n = 25), respectively. The expression of ADAR1 mRNA was measured based on quantitative real-time polymerase chain reactions (RT-qPCR). Both Western blot and immunohistochemistry were performed to establish ADAR1 protein expression levels. The results indicated that ADAR1 mRNA and proteins were significantly greater in the eutopic endometrium of the women with endometriosis, compared to the women without (P < 0.05). The Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and EdU method were conducted to examine the effect of ADAR1 on cell viability and proliferation in eutopic endometriosis cells. A transwell assay was also used to detect the role of ADAR1 in the invasion of endometrial cells. The results obtained showed that ADAR1 promoted endometrial cell viability, proliferation, and invasion (P < 0.05). This informed our conclusion that the ADAR1 gene is upregulated in endometriosis, potentially paying a pivotal role in the physiopathology of endometriosis.
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Rumph JT, Stephens VR, Archibong AE, Osteen KG, Bruner-Tran KL. Environmental Endocrine Disruptors and Endometriosis. ADVANCES IN ANATOMY, EMBRYOLOGY, AND CELL BIOLOGY 2020; 232:57-78. [PMID: 33278007 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-51856-1_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
As a consequence of industrialization, thousands of man-made chemicals have been developed with few undergoing rigorous safety assessment prior to commercial use. Ubiquitous exposure to these compounds, many of which act as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), has been suggested to be one factor in the increasing incidence of numerous diseases, including endometriosis. Endometriosis, the presence of endometrial glands and stroma outside the uterus, is a common disorder of reproductive-age women. Although a number of population-based studies have suggested that exposure to environmental EDCs may affect a woman's risk of developing this disease, results of epidemiology assessments are often equivocal. The development of endometriosis is, however, a process occurring over time; thus, a single assessment of toxicant body burden cannot definitively be linked to causation of disease. For this reason, numerous investigators have utilized a variety of rodent models to examine the impact of specific EDCs on the development of experimental endometriosis. These studies identified multiple chemicals capable of influencing physiologic processes necessary for the establishment and/or survival of ectopic tissues in rodents, suggesting that these compounds may also be of concern for women. Importantly, these models serve as useful tools to explore strategies that may prevent adverse outcomes following EDC exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jelonia T Rumph
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Victoria R Stephens
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA.,Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Anthony E Archibong
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Kevin G Osteen
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA.,Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA.,VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Kaylon L Bruner-Tran
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA.
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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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Therapeutic Approaches of Resveratrol on Endometriosis via Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Angiogenic Pathways. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24040667. [PMID: 30781885 PMCID: PMC6413140 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24040667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2019] [Revised: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis represents a severe gynecological pathology, defined by implantation of endometrial glands and stroma outside the uterine cavity. This pathology affects almost 15% of women during reproductive age and has a wide range of consequences. In affected women, infertility has a 30% rate of prevalence and endometriosis implants increase the risk of ovarian cancer. Despite long periods of studies and investigations, the etiology and pathogenesis of this disease still remain not fully understood. Initially, endometriosis was related to retrograde menstruation, but new theories have been launched, suggesting that chronic inflammation can influence the development of endometriosis because inflammatory mediators have been identified elevated in patients with endometriosis, specifically in the peritoneal fluid. The importance of dietary phytochemicals and their effect on different inflammatory diseases have been highlighted, and nowadays more and more studies are focused on the analysis of nutraceuticals. Resveratrol is a phytoestrogen, a natural polyphenolic compound with antiproliferative and anti-inflammatory actions, found in many dietary sources such as grapes, wine, peanuts, soy, berries, and stilbenes. Resveratrol possesses a significant anti-inflammatory effect via inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis and it has been proved that resveratrol can exhibit apoptosis-inducing activities. From the studies reviewed in this paper, it is clear that the anti-inflammatory effect of this natural compound can contribute to the prevention of endometriosis, this phenolic compound now being considered a new innovative drug in the prevention and treatment of this disease.
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11
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Suardika A, Astawa Pemayun TG. New insights on the pathogenesis of endometriosis and novel non-surgical therapies. J Turk Ger Gynecol Assoc 2018; 19:158-164. [PMID: 30008440 PMCID: PMC6085523 DOI: 10.4274/jtgga.2018.0090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a disease of theories, but none has succeeded to explain the whole picture. Most widely available drugs for endometriosis aim to relieve symptoms and improve fertility. Unfortunately, many short and long-term side-effects are associated with the treatments. To overcome this problem, researchers have developed many novel therapeutic agents, including non-invasive technique. We aim to provide new insights on pathogenesis model and novel non-surgical treatments for endometriosis, including drugs already available in the market and also drugs which are still under research. Seven novel treatment modalities are recognized, namely dienogest, aromatase inhibitor (AI), gonadotrophine-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist, anti tumor necrosing factor (TNF)-α, selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM), selective progesterone receptor modulator (SPRM), and high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU). Dienogest, AI, and GnRH antagonists are effective novel treatments with good tolerance and safety. SERM and SPRM show inconsistent results, while anti-TNF-α is still in the animal experimental stage. HIFU is a potential futuristic treatment. However, it is still a long way until this technology is truly applicable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anom Suardika
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Udayan University, Sangah Hospital, Bali, Indonesia
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12
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Waiyaput W, Pumipichet S, Weerakiet S, Rattanasiri S, Sophonsritsuk A. Effect of simvastatin on monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 expression in endometriosis patients: a randomized controlled trial. BMC WOMENS HEALTH 2017; 17:89. [PMID: 28950844 PMCID: PMC5615793 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-017-0446-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2016] [Accepted: 09/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Background Simvastatin is a promising new drug for the treatment of endometriosis. It is a cholesterol-lowering drug that acts by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, resulting in a decrease in mevalonate, a precursor of cholesterol and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1). This study investigated the effect of pre-operative oral simvastatin administration on MCP-1 gene expression and serum MCP-1 protein levels in patients with endometriosis. Methods A prospective, randomized, controlled study was conducted at the Reproductive Endocrinology Unit of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital. Forty women (mean age: 18–45 years) scheduled for laparoscopic surgery who had been diagnosed with endometriosis were recruited and randomly assigned to either a treatment group (20 mg/d of orally administered simvastatin for 2 weeks before surgery) or an untreated control group. Serum was collected before and after treatment and protein levels of MCP-1 were determined. MCP-1 and CD68 transcript levels were also quantified using real-time PCR on endometriotic cyst tissues. Results MCP-1 gene expression on endometriotic cyst was not significantly different between the simvastatin-treated and untreated groups (P = 0.99). CD68 expression was higher in the treatment group compared to the control group, but this was not statistically significant (P = 0.055). Serum MCP-1 levels following simvastatin treatment were higher than in samples obtained before treatment (297.89 ± 70.77 and 255.51 ± 63.79 pg/ml, respectively) (P = 0.01). Conclusions Treatment with 20 mg/d of simvastatin for 2 weeks did not reduce the expression of either the chemokine MCP-1 gene or macrophage-specific genes. Cumulatively, this suggests that simvastatin is not ideal for treating endometriosis because a higher dose of simvastatin (40–100 mg/d) would be needed to achieve the target outcome, which would significantly increase the risk of myopathy in patients. Trial registration Thai Clinical Trials Registry TCTR20130627003 Registered: June 27, 2013.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanwisa Waiyaput
- Office of Research Academic and Innovation, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Somphoch Pumipichet
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine Srinakharinwirot University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Sawaek Weerakiet
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Unit, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Rama VI Rd, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
| | - Sasivimol Rattanasiri
- Section for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Areepan Sophonsritsuk
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Unit, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Rama VI Rd, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand.
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Zhang W, Lu X, Wang W, Ding Z, Fu Y, Zhou X, Zhang N, Cao Y. Inhibitory Effects of Emodin, Thymol, and Astragalin on Leptospira interrogans-Induced Inflammatory Response in the Uterine and Endometrium Epithelial Cells of Mice. Inflammation 2017; 40:666-675. [PMID: 28210912 DOI: 10.1007/s10753-017-0513-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Leptospirosis is a systemic infection that causes, among others, acute kidney injury, acute liver disease, muscle pain, vasculitis, bleeding disorders, and reproductive loss. In an effort to reduce uterine inflammatory responses induced by Leptospira, we evaluated the anti-inflammation effects of emodin, thymol, and astragalin in a mouse model. Our results showed that treatment with emodin, thymol, and astragalin alleviated uterine inflammation induced by leptospira infection via suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokine expression and prevented tissue damage. Furthermore, we used primary endometrium epithelial cells to show that treatment with these chemicals inhibited the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Western blot results showed that these chemicals suppressed the phosphorylation of p38, p65, extracellular signal-regulated kinase, and c-Jun N-terminal kinase. These results indicate that treatment with emodin, thymol, and astragalin suppressed inflammatory response by regulating NF-κB and mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathways in leptospira-infected uterine and endometrium epithelial cells of mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenlong Zhang
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaojie Lu
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhuang Ding
- Department of Infectious Disease, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, People's Republic of China
| | - Yunhe Fu
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaofei Zhou
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, People's Republic of China
| | - Naisheng Zhang
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, People's Republic of China
| | - Yongguo Cao
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, People's Republic of China. .,Key Laboratory for Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, People's Republic of China.
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Cho S, Mutlu L, Zhou Y, Taylor HS. Aromatase inhibitor regulates let-7 expression and let-7f-induced cell migration in endometrial cells from women with endometriosis. Fertil Steril 2016; 106:673-80. [PMID: 27320036 PMCID: PMC5831184 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2016.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2016] [Revised: 05/23/2016] [Accepted: 05/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate associations between aromatase inhibitor (AI) treatment and let-7-family microRNA expression in endometriosis. DESIGN In vitro study with the use of Ishikawa cells and human endometrial stromal cells (HESCs) obtained from patients with endometriosis. SETTING University research center. PATIENT(S) Women undergoing laparoscopic surgery for endometriosis. INTERVENTION(S) HESCs and Ishikawa cells treated with various letrozole concentrations and transfected with a mimic of let-7 subtypes of interest. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) MicroRNAs let-7a-f and aromatase expression were evaluated. Migration potential after transfection with a let-7f mimic were analyzed. RESULT(S) After letrozole treatment for 48 hours, all let-7 subtypes showed a trend toward increased expression in a dose-dependent manner in Ishikawa cells, and significant differences were found in let-7b and let-7f between the control and 20 μmol/L treatment groups. Furthermore, let-7f showed significant differences between the control group and 1.0 μmol/L treatment group, a typical therapeutic level, in HESCs. Transfection of a let-7f mimic decreased aromatase expression in both Ishikawa cells and HESCs and led to a significant decrease in number of migrating cells in both cell types. CONCLUSION(S) AI treatment significantly increased expression of let-7f in Ishikawa cells and HESCs from patients with endometriosis; increased let-7f expression effectively reduced the migration of endometrial cells. Modulation of microRNAs involved in the pathogenesis of endometriosis may have therapeutic potential for endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- SiHyun Cho
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Levent Mutlu
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Yuping Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Hugh S Taylor
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.
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KOUKOURA OURANIA, SIFAKIS STAVROS, SPANDIDOS DEMETRIOSA. DNA methylation in endometriosis (Review). Mol Med Rep 2016; 13:2939-48. [PMID: 26934855 PMCID: PMC4805102 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2016.4925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2016] [Accepted: 02/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is defined by the presence and growth of functional endometrial tissue, outside the uterine cavity, primarily in the ovaries, pelvic peritoneum and rectovaginal septum. Although it is a benign disease, it presents with malignant characteristics, such as invasion to surrounding tissues, metastasis to distant locations and recurrence following treatment. Accumulating evidence suggests that various epigenetic aberrations may play an essential role in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. Aberrant DNA methylation represents a possible mechanism repsonsible for this disease, linking gene expression alterations observed in endometriosis with hormonal and environmental factors. Several lines of evidence indicate that endometriosis may partially be due to selective epigenetic deregulations influenced by extrinsic factors. Previous studies have shed light into the epigenetic component of endometriosis, reporting variations in the epigenetic patterns of genes known to be involved in the aberrant hormonal, immunologic and inflammatory status of endometriosis. Although recent studies, utilizing advanced molecular techniques, have allowed us to further elucidate the possible association of DNA methylation with altered gene expression, whether these molecular changes represent the cause or merely the consequence of the disease is a question which remains to be answered. This review provides an overview of the current literature on the role of DNA methylation in the pathophysiology and malignant evolution of endometriosis. We also provide insight into the mechanisms through which DNA methylation-modifying agents may be the next step in the research of the pharmaceutical treatment of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- OURANIA KOUKOURA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa 41500, Greece
| | - STAVROS SIFAKIS
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Heraklion, Heraklion 71003, Greece
| | - DEMETRIOS A. SPANDIDOS
- Laboratory of Clinical Virology, University of Crete Medical School, Heraklion 71409, Greece
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Zeng C, Xu JN, Zhou Y, Yang HX, Zhou YF, Xue Q. C-Jun NH2-Terminal Kinase and p38 Inhibition Suppresses Prostaglandin E2-Stimulated Aromatase and Estrogen Receptor Levels in Human Endometriosis. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2015; 100:E1404-14. [PMID: 26394174 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2015-2031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent disease. P38 and C-jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK) inhibitors may have a therapeutic effect on endometriosis through regulation of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2)-induced estrogen metabolism. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to determine whether the activated MAPKs signaling pathway observed in human ectopic endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) from ovarian endometriomas influences levels of aromatase and estrogen receptor β (ERβ) protein regulated by PGE2. In turn, the effects of inhibiting MAPKs in the presence of PGE2 on estrogen production were investigated in vitro and in vivo. RESULTS Expression of aromatase and ERβ regulated by PGE2 were much higher in ESCs than eutopic ESCs from the same person. Activation of p38, JNK, ERK 1/2 and ERK 5 MAPKs by PGE2 were observed in ESCs, where PGE2-stimulated aromatase and ERβ expression mainly through p38 and JNK pathway. P38 and JNK inhibition or small interfering RNA knockdown blocked PGE2-induced aromatase and ERβ expression. PGE2 enhanced binding of downstream p38 and JNK transcription factors activating transcription factor-2 and c-Jun to aromatase and ERB promoter regions in ESCs. Moreover, treatment of endometriosis xenografts with inhibitors of p38 and JNK abrogated PGE2-amplified estradiol synthesis and xenograft growth. CONCLUSIONS PGE2 activates p38 and JNK signaling pathways, further stimulating c-Jun and activating transcription factor-2 binding to aromatase and ERB promoter regions with elevated estradiol production. Inhibition of JNK and P38 may be a potential method of treating human endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Zeng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (C.Z., J.-n.X., Y.Z., H.-x.Y., Y.-f.Z., Q.X.), Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, P. R. China
| | - Jia-Ning Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (C.Z., J.-n.X., Y.Z., H.-x.Y., Y.-f.Z., Q.X.), Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, P. R. China
| | - Yan Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (C.Z., J.-n.X., Y.Z., H.-x.Y., Y.-f.Z., Q.X.), Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, P. R. China
| | - Hui-Xia Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (C.Z., J.-n.X., Y.Z., H.-x.Y., Y.-f.Z., Q.X.), Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, P. R. China
| | - Ying-Fang Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (C.Z., J.-n.X., Y.Z., H.-x.Y., Y.-f.Z., Q.X.), Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, P. R. China
| | - Qing Xue
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (C.Z., J.-n.X., Y.Z., H.-x.Y., Y.-f.Z., Q.X.), Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, P. R. China
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17
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Kokcu A. A current view of the role of epigenetic changes in the aetiopathogenesis of endometriosis. J OBSTET GYNAECOL 2015; 36:153-9. [PMID: 26467001 DOI: 10.3109/01443615.2015.1036403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of the study was to examine the role of epigenetic changes in the aetiopathogenesis of endometriosis. The analysis and review of the relevant current literature in English language related to the role of epigenetic changes in the aetiopathogenesis of endometriosis. Epigenetic changes are common denominators for hormonal, immunological and inflammatory aberrations which play a key role in the aetiopathogenesis of endometriosis. Many internal and external factors may cause the different running of the epigenetic mechanism. As yet fully unknown genetic factors may increase the sensitivity of the epigenetic mechanism to various internal and external factors. The breakdown of epigenetic regulation is the main factor initiating the pathogenetic mechanisms for endometriosis formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Kokcu
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Faculty of Medicine, University of Ondokuz Mayis , Samsun , Turkey
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18
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Barcelos IDES, Donabella FC, Ribas CP, Meola J, Ferriani RA, de Paz CCP, Navarro PA. Down-regulation of the CYP19A1 gene in cumulus cells of infertile women with endometriosis. Reprod Biomed Online 2015; 30:532-41. [PMID: 25773531 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2015.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2014] [Revised: 01/21/2015] [Accepted: 01/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Aromatase plays a fundamental role in the establishment of oocyte quality, which might be compromised in infertile women with endometriosis. The expression of the CYP19A1 gene (that encodes aromatase) was compared in cumulus cells and oestradiol concentrations in the follicular fluid of infertile women with and without endometriosis submitted to ovarian stimulation for intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Cumulus cells were isolated and the expression of the CYP19A1 was quantitated through real-time polymerase chain reaction. Oestradiol concentrations in follicular fluid were measured by chemiluminescence immunoassay. A lower expression of the CYP19A1 in the cumulus cells of infertile women with endometriosis was observed compared with controls (0.17 ± 0.13 and 0.56 ± 0.12, respectively), and no significant difference in the follicular fluid oestradiol concentrations was observed between groups. Our results show reduced expression of the CYP19A1 in cumulus cells of infertile women with endometriosis, which may play a role in the pathogenesis of endometriosis-related infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ionara Diniz E S Barcelos
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Flávia Capello Donabella
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Cristiana Padovan Ribas
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Juliana Meola
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Rui Alberto Ferriani
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Paula A Navarro
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
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Adamyan LV, Farkhat KN, Makiyan ZN, Savilova AM. The external genital endometriosis: theories and molecular investigations (a review). ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015. [DOI: 10.17116/repro20152158-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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20
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Maia H, Haddad C, Casoy J. The effect of pycnogenol on patients with dysmenorrhea using low-dose oral contraceptives. Int J Womens Health 2014; 6:1019-22. [PMID: 25525393 PMCID: PMC4266261 DOI: 10.2147/ijwh.s75389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Menstrual symptoms such as dysmenorrhea usually occur during the hormone-free interval in oral contraceptive users. Progestin withdrawal activates NF-κB transcription factor, which upregulates both vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and Cox-2 expression in the endometrium. The use of natural NF-κB inhibitors such as pycnogenol may block this response, improving dysmenorrhea. Patients and methods Twenty-four patients with severe dysmenorrhea were allocated to one of two treatment groups. In Group A (n=13), women were treated with an oral contraceptive containing 15 μg of ethinyl estradiol and 60 mg of gestodene (Adoless®) in a 24/4 regimen for three consecutive cycles. Women in Group B (n=11) used the same contraceptive regimen together with 100 mg of pycnogenol (Flebon®) continuously for 3 months. Pain scores were graded using a visual analog scale (VAS) before and during the hormone-free interval at the end of the third treatment cycle. Results Before treatment, VAS pain scores for dysmenorrhea were 8 and 9 in Groups A and B, respectively. However, by the end of the third treatment cycle, pain scores had decreased significantly (P<0.05) both in groups A and B. The final pain scores were 6 in Group A and 2 in Group B, a difference that was statistically significant (P<0.0001). In Group B, 27% of the patients became pain-free, while in Group A, none of the women reported complete disappearance of this symptom. The number of bleeding days was also lower in Group B. Discussion Pycnogenol effectively decreased pain scores and the number of bleeding days when administered concomitantly with a low-dose 24/4 oral contraceptive containing gestodene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo Maia
- Centro de Pesquisa e Assistência em Reprodução Humana (CEPARH), Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Clarice Haddad
- Centro de Pesquisa e Assistência em Reprodução Humana (CEPARH), Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Julio Casoy
- Centro de Pesquisa e Assistência em Reprodução Humana (CEPARH), Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
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Maia H, Haddad C, Casoy J. Combining oral contraceptives with a natural nuclear factor-kappa B inhibitor for the treatment of endometriosis-related pain. Int J Womens Health 2013; 6:35-9. [PMID: 24379702 PMCID: PMC3873204 DOI: 10.2147/ijwh.s55210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a chronic disease in which a persistent state of heightened inflammation is maintained by nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) activation. The progestins present in oral contraceptives are potent inhibitors of NF-κB translocation to cell nuclei, while Pycnogenol® (Pinus pinaster) acts by blocking post-translational events. In this study, the effects of Pycnogenol on pain scores were investigated in patients with endometriosis using oral contraceptives containing either gestodene or drospirenone in extended regimens. Pain scores were determined using a visual analog scale before and after 3 months of treatment. Oral contraceptives, used alone (groups 1 and 3) or in association with Pycnogenol (groups 2 and 4), resulted in significant decreases in pain scores after 3 months of treatment; however, this reduction was significantly greater in the groups using oral contraceptives + Pycnogenol (groups 2 and 4) compared with those using oral contraceptives alone (groups 1 and 3). In the groups using oral contraceptives alone, 50% of patients became pain-free by the end of the third month of treatment. These results suggest that Pycnogenol increases the efficacy of oral contraceptives for the treatment of endometriosis-related pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo Maia
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, School of Medicine, Federal University of Bahia, Bahia, Brazil ; Itaigara Memorial Day Hospital, Bahia, Brazil ; Centro de Pesquisas e Assistência em Reprodução Humana (CEPARH), Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Clarice Haddad
- Centro de Pesquisas e Assistência em Reprodução Humana (CEPARH), Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Julio Casoy
- Centro de Pesquisas e Assistência em Reprodução Humana (CEPARH), Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
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22
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Benagiano G, Brosens I, Habiba M. Structural and molecular features of the endomyometrium in endometriosis and adenomyosis. Hum Reprod Update 2013; 20:386-402. [DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmt052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 155] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
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Maia H, Haddad C, Pinheiro N, Casoy J. The effect of oral contraceptives on aromatase and Cox-2 expression in the endometrium of patients with idiopathic menorrhagia or adenomyosis. Int J Womens Health 2013; 5:293-9. [PMID: 23788841 PMCID: PMC3684227 DOI: 10.2147/ijwh.s45093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The presence of aromatase and cyclooxygenase-2 (Cox-2) expression was investigated in the endometrium of patients with idiopathic menorrhagia or adenomyosis. The effect of oral contraceptives administered in extended regimens on the endometrial expression of these enzymes was also investigated. Methods and results Aromatase expression was detected by immunohistochemistry in the endometrial glands and stroma of patients with idiopathic menorrhagia or adenomyosis. There was no difference in the percentage of aromatase expression in the endometria between the two groups. The mean intensity of Cox-2 expression in the glandular epithelium also did not differ significantly between the groups. Among the patients using oral contraceptives in extended regimens, the relative decrease in both aromatase and Cox-2 expression was significantly greater in amenorrheic patients compared with those who were experiencing breakthrough bleeding. Conclusion The presence of aromatase expression in the endometrium is associated with the occurrence of menorrhagia, irrespective of the presence of adenomyosis. Continuous expression of these enzymes in the endometrium of users of oral contraceptives in extended regimens is positively associated with the presence of breakthrough bleeding. This suggests a role for both aromatase and Cox-2 in the etiology of abnormal uterine bleeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo Maia
- School of Medicine, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil ; School of Medicine, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil ; School of Medicine, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
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Interplay between Misplaced Müllerian-Derived Stem Cells and Peritoneal Immune Dysregulation in the Pathogenesis of Endometriosis. Obstet Gynecol Int 2013; 2013:527041. [PMID: 23843796 PMCID: PMC3697788 DOI: 10.1155/2013/527041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2013] [Revised: 05/19/2013] [Accepted: 05/28/2013] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
In the genetic regulation of Müllerian structures development, a key role is played by Hoxa and Wnt clusters, because they lead the transcription of different genes according to the different phases of the organogenesis, addressing correctly cell-to-cell interactions, allowing, finally, the physiologic morphogenesis. Accumulating evidence is suggesting that dysregulation of Wnt and/or Hox genes may affect cell migration during organogenesis and differentiation of Müllerian structures of the female reproductive tract, with possible dislocation and dissemination of primordial endometrial stem cells in ectopic regions, which have high plasticity to differentiation. We hypothesize that during postpubertal age, under the influence of different stimuli, these misplaced and quiescent ectopic endometrial cells could acquire new phenotype, biological functions, and immunogenicity. So, these kinds of cells may differentiate, specializing in epithelium, glands, and stroma to form a functional ectopic endometrial tissue. This may provoke a breakdown in the peritoneal cavity homeostasis, with the consequent processes of immune alteration, documented by peripheral mononuclear cells recruitment and secretion of inflammatory cytokines in early phases and of angiogenic and fibrogenic cytokines in the late stages of the disease.
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