Endometriosis: the mysteries of the origin and the fight against the disease

Endometriosis is one of the most mysterious and frightening female diseases, about which medicine still knows a little. Millions of women around the world face this disorder, but its exact causes remain a mystery. A recent study by scientists from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology has brought us closer to understanding the mechanisms of endometriosis formation.

Endometriosis is a condition in which cells in the inner layer of the uterus (endometrium) begin to grow outside the uterus. This can lead to serious consequences, including infertility. However, despite years of research, the exact causes of endometriosis have remained unclear.

Symptoms of endometriosis can be extremely painful and include painful periods, heavy bleeding, abdominal and back pain, and fertility problems. Cases of endometriosis require treatment, often including hormonal medications, but sometimes they result in medically induced menopause. Some cases require surgery, but the effects of such surgery are temporary.

Researchers analyzed the abdominal fluid of 77 women with various signs of endometriosis. They examined the levels of 50 different proteins, including cytokines, which are inflammatory molecules that regulate the response to infections. Interestingly, cytokines can cause inflammation even in the absence of infection.

The study revealed a specific pattern that includes the activity of 13 cytokines associated with ovarian and rectovaginal lesions. This structure negatively affects the fertility of women with endometriosis. A key regulator of this structure turned out to be the protein c-jun, which controls inflammatory processes.

The next step for researchers is to find out what exactly initiates this immune response and what external factors may influence the development of endometriosis. Thus, the data obtained brings us closer to understanding the origin of this mysterious disease and helps to develop more effective methods of treatment.

It is important to note that according to the recommendations of experts, minimizing exposure to pesticides can reduce the risk of developing endometriosis.