Role for neutrophils in endometriosis

Endometriosis—defined as the presence of the endometrium outside the uterine cavity—is a common disease affecting 5–10% of women of reproductive age globally. Among other symptoms, endometriosis can cause chronic pelvic pain, painful periods and infertility, which negatively impact the women’s quality of life. The exact cause of endometriosis is unclear, calling for more research to identify the mechanisms driving endometriotic lesion development and find effective therapies. A new study published in JCI Insight used a mouse model of endometriosis to uncover the critical role of neutrophils in the initiating events of endometriosis. Minced endometrial tissue pieces from donor mice were surgically transplanted into the peritoneum of host mice, where they attached and formed ectopic lesions, mimicking the human condition. Treating host mice with antibodies targeting CXCR2, a chemokine receptor involved in neutrophil chemotaxis and inflammation, decreased endometrial tissue adhesion, demonstrating the role of neutrophil recruitment in lesion formation. These findings could guide the development of more effective approaches for the clinical management of endometriosis. Original reference: Wilson, T.R. et al. JCI Insight 10, e186133 (2025) This is a preview of subscription content, access via your institution Access options Author information Authors and Affiliations Corresponding author Rights and permissions About this article Cite this article Le Bras, A. Role for neutrophils in endometriosis. Lab Anim 54, 76 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41684-025-01538-z Published: Version of record: Issue date: DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41684-025-01538-z