Expression of connexin43 protein and mRNA in patients with endometriosis and its significance

Objective:To study the expression of connexin43 protein,mRNA and its significance in patients with endometriosis.Methods:Endometria were obtained from 20 cases with endometriosis through hysterectomy,and from 21 cases of the control group through hysterectomy and laparoscopic examination and other ways.Immunohistochemical staining with antibody against connexin 43 protein was performed by S-ABC method.But mRNA of connexin 43 was examined by RT-PCR.Results:Connexin43 protein was mainly expressed in the plasma of glandular epithelium of endometrium.There was a significant difference between the study group and the control group.The expression of connexin43 protein and mRNA in endometriosis group was much lower than in the control group.Conclusion:The gap junction induced by connexin43 protein between the glandular epithelium of endometrium is very important for the communication of substances and signals.The loss of gap junction communication caused by the reduction of connexin43 mRNA and protein in endometriosis might be responsible for the movement of endometrial cells to other places.