Dysregulation of Key Biological Processes in Endometriosis Pathophysiology
Roya Mahdavi1,2, Zahra Akbari Jonoush1, Nastaran Mohammadi1
1Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
Abstract:
Endometriosis is a typical disorder affecting the female reproductive system and is characterized by the presence of tissue resembling the endometrium both within and beyond the pelvic cavity. Unfortunately, the etiology of endometriosis is not well understood. The purpose of this document is to create a summary of the factors contributing to endometriosis, especially the dysregulation of cellular and molecular pathways. Key biological processes implicated include enzyme dysregulation, exosome dysfunction, hormonal imbalances, apoptosis, angiogenesis, oxidative stress, epigenetic dysregulation, and the involvement of cytokines and chemokines. Many of these factors have overlapping pathways that can enhance the survival of endometrial debris and facilitate the implantation of endometrial tissue in extrauterine sites. This knowledge can provide a broader perspective on the onset and progression of endometriosis. Additionally, this study paves the way for the discovery of new therapeutic targets to improve the efficacy of endometriosis treatments and reduce the side effects associated with current treatments. Further research is needed to better understand the underlying mechanisms that lead to the dysregulation of diseaserelated pathways, which could ultimately be useful in early diagnosis and disease staging.
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