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Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics
Published in: Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics 12/2010

01-12-2010 | Assisted Reproduction Technologies

The role of the Hoxa10/HOXA10 gene in the etiology of endometriosis and its related infertility: a review

Authors: Alysson Zanatta, André M. Rocha, Filomena M. Carvalho, Ricardo M. A. Pereira, Hugh S. Taylor, Eduardo L. A. Motta, Edmund C. Baracat, Paulo C. Serafini

Published in: Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics | Issue 12/2010

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Abstract

Purpose

Endometriosis and its associated infertility have been the object of continuous research for over a century. To understand the molecular mechanisms underlying the disease, it has become necessary to determine the aspects of its etiology that are not explained by the retrograde menstruation theory. This could in turn elucidate how various clinical and surgical treatments might affect the evolution and remission of the disease.

Methods

This review is focused on the most recent clinical and laboratory findings regarding the association of HOXA10 with endometriosis and infertility.

Result

The homebox (Hox/HOX) proteins are highly conserved transcription factors that determine segmental body identities in multiple species, including humans. Hoxa10/HOXA10 is directly involved in the embryogenesis of the uterus and embryo implantation via regulation of downstream genes. Cyclical endometrial expression of Hoxa10/HOXA10, with a peak of expression occurring during the window of implantation, is observed in the adult in response to estrogen and progesterone. Women with endometriosis do not demonstrate the expected mid-luteal rise of HOXA10 expression, which might partially explain the infertility observed in many of these patients. Recent studies also demonstrated HOXA10 expression in endometriotic foci outside the Müllerian tract.

Conclusions

Multiple lines of evidence suggest that the actions of the homeobox A10 (Hoxa10/HOXA10) gene could account for some aspects of endometriosis.
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Metadata
Title
The role of the Hoxa10/HOXA10 gene in the etiology of endometriosis and its related infertility: a review
Authors
Alysson Zanatta
André M. Rocha
Filomena M. Carvalho
Ricardo M. A. Pereira
Hugh S. Taylor
Eduardo L. A. Motta
Edmund C. Baracat
Paulo C. Serafini
Publication date
01-12-2010
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics / Issue 12/2010
Print ISSN: 1058-0468
Electronic ISSN: 1573-7330
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10815-010-9471-y

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