Authors: Jones, C.J.P.; Denton, J.; Fazleabas, A.T.

Source: Human Reproduction, Volume 21, Number 12, 1 December 2006 , pp. 3068-3080(13)

Publisher: Oxford University Press

Abstract:

BACKGROUND: Endometriosis is one of the most common causes of infertility and pelvic pain. A baboon model has recently been developed whereby the intrapelvic injection of menstrual endometrium results in the induction of endometriotic lesions. We have used this model to investigate changes in ultrastructure and glycosylation of endometria from normal and diseased baboons. METHODS: Endometriosis was induced in eight female baboons; endometrial tissue and endometriotic lesions were removed on days 9-11 post ovulation between 3 and 16 months of disease and compared with endometrium from 17 control animals, using electron microscopy and lectin histochemistry. RESULTS: Ultrastructurally, diseased endometrial glands showed abnormalities in secretory vacuoles and an intracellular accumulation of glycogen; in later stages of the disease, glands resembled those of the late secretory phase endometrium. The abnormalities were mirrored by changes in glycan expression. In early disease, there was an increased binding of lectin from Dolichos biflorus agglutinin (DBA) to fucosylated N-acetylglucosamine residues, whereas in later stages, this binding generally decreased in association with the appearance of a late secretory phenotype. CONCLUSIONS: Endometriosis is accompanied by progressive changes in the gland architecture and biochemistry resulting in dyssynchrony within the window of uterine receptivity, which may result in the reduced fertility associated with this disease.

Keywords: baboon; endometriosis; ultrastructure; lectin histochemistry

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/humrep/del310

Publication date: 2006-12-01

More about this publication?

• Human Reproduction features full-length, peer-reviewed papers reporting original research, clinical case histories, as well as opinions and debates on topical issues. Papers published cover the scientific and medical aspects of reproductive physiology and pathology, endocrinology, andrology, gonad function, gametogenesis, fertilization, embryo development, implantation, pregnancy, genetics, genetic diagnosis, oncology, infectious disease, surgery, contraception, infertility treatment, psychology, ethics and social issues. The highest scientific and editorial standard is maintained throughout the journal along with a rapid rate of publication.

Related content

• In this: publication
• By this: publisher
• In this Subject: Anatomy & Physiology ,  Obstetrics & Gynecology
• By this author: Jones, C.J.P. ;  Denton, J. ;  Fazleabas, A.T.

Website © Publishing Technology. Article copyright remains with the publisher, society or author(s) as specified within the article.

• Terms and conditions
• Privacy policy
• Information for advertisers