Autophagy is upregulated in ovarian endometriosis: a possible interplay with p53 and heme oxygenase-1

The upregulated autophagic process observed in ovarian endometriomas can be regarded as an integral part of endometriosis pathogenesis, possibly contributing to survival of endometriotic cells in ectopic sites and to lesion maintenance. The decreased susceptibility to apoptosis and the persistent oxidative stress experienced by endometriotic cells could favor autophagy stimulation.