Role of Natural Killer (NK) Cells in Endometriosis

Roshanak Balalak, Marzieh Ebrahimi, Elham Amirghaghmaghi
In: Journal of Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences · 2026 · doi:10.18502/ssu.v34i4.22066 · W7169732593
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This study investigates how alterations in the number and function of natural killer (NK) cells contribute to the pathogenesis of endometriosis and their potential therapeutic implications.

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This review article examines the immunological mechanisms underlying endometriosis, with a specific focus on the function and dysfunction of Natural Killer cells within the disease microenvironment. The authors analyze existing literature to demonstrate how impaired NK cell cytotoxicity and altered cytokine profiles contribute to the survival and implantation of ectopic endometrial tissue. While the paper synthesizes current knowledge regarding immune evasion strategies employed by endometriotic lesions, it acknowledges that many findings are derived from in vitro or animal models rather than comprehensive clinical trials. This paper is centrally about endometriosis — specifically exploring the role of natural killer cells in its pathogenesis.

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Abstract

Introduction: Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disorder that depends on estrogen and affects approximately 10% of women of reproductive age. Although the exact cause of endometriosis remains unclear, it is suggested that combination of genetic, hormonal, and immunological factors is involved in its pathogenesis. Studies have shown that impaired immune system function plays a role in the development of endometriotic lesions. One type of immune cells that may contribute to the pathogenesis of endometriosis is the natural killer (NK) cells. NK cells are components of the innate immune system and play a critical role in defending against infections and eliminating abnormal cells, including cancerous cells. They are also involved in maternal-fetal tolerance and maintaining reproductive health. Increasing evidence suggests that both the function and number of NK cells are altered in endometriosis. Furthermore, recent research has shown promising results regarding the potential role of NK cells in the treatment of endometriosis.
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Publication Journal of Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences Record type Journal article Published 19 July 2026 Authors Roshanak Balalak | Marzieh Ebrahimi | Elham Amirghaghmaghi The publisher of this work supports multiple resolution. The work is available from the following locations: {'doi': '10.18502/ssu.v34i4.22066', 'member_id': '7770', 'member': 'Knowledge E DMCC', 'container-title': 'Journal of Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences', 'primary-resource': 'https://publish.kne-publishing.com/index.php/SSU/article/view/22066', 'tld': 'kne-publishing.com', 'clearbit-logo': '/static/no_logo.svg', 'coaccess': [], 'multiple-resolution': [{'url': 'http://jssu.ssu.ac.ir/article-1-6469-en.html', 'tld': 'ssu.ac.ir', 'clearbit-logo': '/static/no_logo.svg'}], 'type': 'JOURNAL ARTICLE', 'published_date': '19 July 2026', 'publication': 'Journal of Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences', 'title': 'Role of Natural Killer (NK) Cells in Endometriosis', 'name': None, 'id': None, 'location': None, 'display_doi': 'https://doi.org/10.18502/ssu.v34i4.22066', 'grant_info': None, 'grant_info_funders': None, 'grant_info_funder_ids': '', 'grant_info_type': None, 'multiple_lead_investigators': [], 'multiple_co_lead_investigators': [], 'multiple_investigators': [], 'finances': [], 'project_description': None, 'award_amount': None, 'award_start': None, 'funding_scheme': None, 'internal_award_number': None, 'editors': None, 'authors': 'Roshanak Balalak | Marzieh Ebrahimi | Elham Amirghaghmaghi', 'chairs': None, 'supplementary_ids': None} https://doi.org/10.18502/ssu.v34i4.22066 JSON XML

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