Elucidation of development and progression of endometriosis related to NK cells

2017 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 15K20120
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Young Scientists (B)
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Research Field: Obstetrics and gynecology
• Research Institution: Hirosaki University
• Principal Investigator: FUNAMIZU Ayano 弘前大学, 医学部附属病院, 助教 (50623766)
• Research Collaborator: FUKUI Atsushi ; FUKUHARA Rie ; TAIMA Ayako
• Project Period (FY): 2015-04-01 – 2018-03-31
• Keywords: 子宮内膜症 / NK細胞 / 不妊症

Outline of Final Research Achievements

The purpose of this study is to clarify the relationship between endometriosis and NK cell function (NCR expression and cytokine production) and to elucidate the pathology of endometriosis.
In peritoneal fluid in patients with endometriosis, there was a decrease in the expression of NKp46 which is one of NCRs, an increase in IFN-γ and TNF-α which is one of inflammatory cytokines. In other words, endometriotic cells in the peritoneal cavity could not be removed due to decreased cytotoxicity of NK cells, suggesting that inflammation was promoted. In addition, it was suggested that the condition is improved by low dose estrogen progestin, a therapeutic agent for endometriosis. There was no change in NCR expression on NK cells in endometrium in patients with endometriosis and infertility, and it seemed that lower endometrial receptivity is not complicated by endometriosis.

Free Research Field

生殖免疫学