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Endometriosis and free radicals
H Ota1, S Igarashi, J Hatazawa
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Akita University School of Medicine, Akita, Japan. otah@obgyn.med.akita-u.ac.jp
Gynecologic and Obstetric Investigation
|November 24, 1999
Summary
Endometrial enzymes like nitric oxide synthase and superoxide dismutase are overexpressed in endometriosis, suggesting excessive free radical production contributes to infertility and miscarriage in the disease.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive biology
- Endocrinology
- Pathophysiology
Background:
- Nitric oxide synthase (NOS) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) are present in the endometrium.
- Endothelial NOS is found in endometrial glandular epithelial cells, peaking mid-secretory phase.
- Enzyme distribution varies with the menstrual cycle.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of endometrial enzymes in reproductive processes.
- To examine the expression of NOS and SOD in endometriosis.
- To determine the link between these enzymes and free radical production in endometriosis.
Main Methods:
- Enzyme distribution analysis in endometrial tissue.
- Comparison of enzyme expression between healthy endometrium and endometriosis.
- Assessment of free radical levels in relation to enzyme activity.
Main Results:
- NOS and SOD are overexpressed in endometriosis throughout the menstrual cycle.
- This overexpression suggests increased free radical generation in the disease.
- Endometriosis is frequently associated with infertility and miscarriage.
Conclusions:
- Overexpression of NOS and SOD in endometriosis indicates excessive free radical production.
- Free radicals likely play a role in the pathophysiology of endometriosis-associated infertility and miscarriage.