Endometrial stem/progenitor cells and their role in the pathogenesis of endometriosis

Fiona L Cousins, Dorien F O, O DF, Caroline E Gargett, Gargett CE
Best practice & research. Clinical obstetrics & gynaecology · 2018 · vol. 50 , pp. 27–38 · doi:10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2018.01.011 · PMID:29503126 · W2794339668
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This paper reviews the role of endometrial stem/progenitor cells in the development and progression of endometriosis.

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Abstract

Human endometrium regenerates on a cyclical basis each month, likely mediated by endometrial stem/progenitor cells. Several types of stem/progenitor cells have been identified: CD140b+CD146+ or SUSD2+ endometrial mesenchymal stem cells (eMSCs), N-cadherin+ endometrial epithelial progenitor cells (eEPs), and side population (SP) cells, a heterogeneous population predominantly comprising endothelial cells. eMSCs reside in a perivascular niche and likely mediate angiogenesis and stromal regeneration. Human eEPs are located in the bases of glands in the basalis and are likely more primitive than SSEA-1+ basalis epithelial cells. Endometrial stem/progenitor cells may contribute to the pathogenesis of endometriosis by their retrograde shedding into the pelvic cavity, either after menarche or as a result of neonatal uterine bleeding. eMSCs may have a role in the generation of progesterone-resistant phenotype of endometrial stromal fibroblasts (eSFs) in endometriosis. In future clinical practice, endometrial stem/progenitor cells may be used to establish diagnosis of endometriosis or as therapeutic targets.

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Condition tags

endometriosis

MeSH descriptors

Endometriosis Endometrium Stem Cells Endometriosis Endometrium Female Fibroblasts Fibroblasts Humans Menstruation Menstruation Mesenchymal Stem Cells Mesenchymal Stem Cells Regeneration Regeneration Stem Cells

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