Implication of the RAGE–EN-RAGE axis in endometriosis

ObjectiveTo investigate the involvement of the receptor gene for advanced glycation (RAGE), its ligand EN-RAGE, and COX-2 in endometriosis.MethodsThe mRNA and protein expression of the corresponding genes were determined from endometriotic cells from 28 study patients and healthy endometrial stromal cells from 20 controls by semiquantitative RT-PCR and Western blot analysis, respectively, using β-actin as an invariant control.ResultsThe expression of COX-2, RAGE, and EN-RAGE was significantly increased, as evidenced by the significantly greater mRNA and protein expression in the cells of the study patients (P < 0.001). Previous treatment for endometriosis did not lessen mRNA and protein expression (P < 0.001).ConclusionOur findings strengthen the hypothesis of an underlying inflammation in the pathophysiology of endometriosis and suggest exploring anti-inflammatory therapies as adjunct treatment.