Menstrual physiology: implications for endometrial pathology and beyond
Jacqueline A Maybin1, Hilary O D Critchley2
1MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK.
Human Reproduction Update
|August 9, 2015
Summary
Understanding endometrial repair and regeneration is key to treating heavy menstrual bleeding. Further research into menstrual physiology offers broad translational benefits for various tissue sites.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive biology and gynaecology
- Tissue regeneration and repair mechanisms
Background:
- The endometrium undergoes monthly inflammation and shedding during menstruation.
- Remarkable endometrial repair allows for successful embryo implantation.
- Menstrual irregularities like heavy bleeding stem from aberrant menstrual physiology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the physiological processes of the endometrium during menstruation.
- To identify new therapeutic targets for gynaecological disorders.
- To highlight translational applications of endometrial research in other tissues.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature search of PubMed and Cochrane databases.
- Inclusion of original and review articles published in English until April 2015.
- Keywords: endometrium, menstruation, endometrial repair, regeneration, angiogenesis, inflammation, heavy menstrual bleeding, menorrhagia.
Main Results:
- Menstruation is a rare phenomenon, unique to humans and a few other species.
- Human menstruation is linked to preimplantation decidualization, aiding embryo selection.
- Studying endometrial inflammation, vascular changes, and repair offers therapeutic targets for gynaecological disorders.
Conclusions:
- Investigating normal and abnormal menstruation is crucial for developing new medical treatments.
- Interdisciplinary collaboration can enhance the therapeutic potential of endometrial research.
- Understanding endometrial dynamics has significant implications for reproductive health and beyond.
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