Nuclear factor-kappaB: A main regulator of inflammation and cell survival in endometriosis pathophysiology

Abstract

Objective: To update, analyze, and summarize the literature concerning nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB) participation in endometriosis pathophysiology. Design: Review. Result(s): Nuclear factor-kappaB is physiologically activated in the human endometrium, showing variable activity. A cyclic p65-DNA binding pattern was shown in the endometrium of healthy women. This cyclic pattern was altered in the endometrium of patients with endometriosis. Nuclear factor-kappaB is basally activated in peritoneal endometriotic lesions, showing higher p65 activity in red endometriotic lesions than in black lesions. In vivo and in vitro studies show up-regulation of inflammation and cell proliferation and down-regulation of apoptosis by NF-κB activity. Iron overload has been shown in the pelvic cavity of endometriosis patients, and iron overload and oxidative stress activate NF-κB in macrophages, which have been shown to participate in the endometriosis-associated inflammatory reaction. Conclusion(s): Nucl