Endometriosis as systemic genetic problem

Current data contributing to the origin and development of endometriosis (E) — sever common disease of reproductive age women are reviewed. Numerous theories and hypothesis as well as basic pathological mechanisms underlying E are briefly outlined. Whole gene-net and particular groups of candidate genes involved in E are presented. The later include genes of detoxification system, sex hormones and their receptors, cytokines gene, onco- suppressors the genes contributing to embryonic development of female reproductive organs and cell proliferation Major molecular genetic data imply epigenetic impact in the origin of disease which results from progressive disregulation of endometrium genome functions provoked by unfavorable combinations of candidate genes of some signaling pathways and defects in their expression due to abnormal methylation pattern. Histone modifications and the faults of miRNA content. In line with systemic genetic concept initial stages of E could be provoked by different genetic, epigenetic and even external factors which outcome is the same pathophysiological and pathomorphological damages clinically classified as E. Two feasible molecular genetic routs of E. are suggested. Both are relying on unscheduled expression of early embryonic genes such as WNT4, HOX10, HOX11, GALT provoking the changes in genetic program of endometriotic cells (metaplasia) and their subsequent progression as the lesions of ectopic endometrium