The role of transforming growth factor-β and of matrix metalloproteinase 9 in immunopathogenesis of endometriosis associated with infertility

In the development of endometriosis and infertility, associated with it, immunological processes play an important role, ant they are characterized by high activity of cytokines and growth factors (e.g., transforming growth factor -β (TGF-β)) and increased invasiveness of ectopic endometrium, including activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP). TGF-β exhibits different biological properties and plays a key role in the migration, proliferation and differentiation of cells. The concentration of TGF-β in serum and peritoneal fluid of 65 women with external genital endometriosis and infertility has been studied. We found an increase of TGF -β in peritoneal fluid, which is associated with an increased activity of MMP9 in the ectopic endometrium.