15-Epi-lipoxin A4 inhibits the progression of endometriosis in a murine model

ObjectiveTo examine the pro-resolution actions of 15-epi-lipoxin A4 (LXA4) on endometriotic lesions, on the concentrations and activities of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-2 and MMP-9) in murine endometriosis.DesignProspective, vehicle-controlled experimental study.SettingAnimal research facility.Animal(s)BALB/c mice.Intervention(s)Endometriosis (EM) was induced in 30 mice. Fifteen of them were administered LXA4 for 24 days (LXA4 group), whereas the other 15 served as a control group (EM group). Another 15 sham-operated mice (sham-operated group) were treated with vehicles.Main Outcome Measure(s)The weight of the endometriotic lesions was measured. The concentrations, mRNA, and activities of MMP-2 and MMP-9 were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, and gelatin zymography, respectively.Result(s)Compared with EM group, the weight of the endometriotic lesions was decreased, the concentrations of MMP-2 and MMP-9 dropped, the mRNA levels of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in the peritoneal fluid cells and the endometriotic lesions were reduced, and the activities of MMP-2 and MMP-9 were inhibited in the LXA4 group.Conclusion(s)LXA4 may inhibit the progression of endometriosis possibly by lowering the concentrations and the activities of MMP-2 and MMP-9.