The Origin and Pathogenesis of Endometriosis

Recent molecular genetic findings on endometriosis and normal endometrium suggest a modified model in which circulating epithelial progenitor or stem cells intended to regenerate uterine endometrium after menstruation may become overreactive and trapped outside the uterus. These trapped epithelium-committed progenitor cells form nascent glands through clonal expansion and recruit polyclonal stromal cells, leading to the establishment of deep infiltrating endometriosis. Once formed, the ectopic tissue becomes subject to immune surveillance, resulting in chronic inflammation. The inflammatory response orchestrated by nuclear factor-κB signaling is exacerbated by aberrations in the estrogen receptor-β and…

• NI
  National Institutes of Health

  Award: R01HD096147
• NI
  National Institute of Child Health and Human Development

  Award: R01HD096147
• EK
  Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development