The menstruating mouse model for preclinical endometriosis research Optimization of the decidualization process, nerve fiber detection and nocifensive behavior identification

Endometriosis research commonly employs rodent models. However, the current models fail to precisely replicate the human disease. Accordingly, the standardization of the menstruating mouse model (MMM) could signify advancement. In prospect of the standardization of this new model, this study comprised (i) the optimization of the decidualization protocol of the MMM;(ii) the improvement of the immunostaining for PGP 9.5; and (iii) the assessment of nocifensive behavior related to abdominal pain. Results indicated that (i) decidualization could best be achieved using laparoscopic intrauterine oil injections, (ii) PGP9.5 was best visualized after citrate dependent heat retrieval, a 1:1000 antibody dilution and visualization by means of NBT/BCIP, and that (iii) no significant changes in nocifensive behavior in response to CFA-induced abdominal pain were observed. Summarized, the outcomes of these optimization steps can be used in future studies on the early development of endometriosis