Function of Interferon-γ in the Pathogenesis of Endometriosis

Objective:To evaluate the involvement of cell proliferation and apoptosis in the pathogenesis of endometriosis.Methods:The effect of interferon(IFN)γ had been investigated on cell growth inhibition and apoptosis of cultured ovarian endometriotic cyst stromal cells(ECSC),eutopic endometrial stromal cells with endometriosis(ESCwE)and normal endometrial stromal cells(NESC)by modified methylthiazoletetrazolium assay,5-bromo-2′deoxyuridine incorporation assay.Results:IFN-γ significantly inhibited cell proliferation of ESCwE and NESC,and induced apoptosis of these cells.In contrast,IFN-γ did not show apparent effects on the viable cell number or apoptosis of ECSC.Conclusion:The endometriotic cells are resistant to IFN-γ-induced cell growth inhibition and apoptosis.