DNA microarray analysis of gene expression markers of endometriosis

Objective: To use DNA microarray technology to examine differential gene expression in uterine endometrium versus endometriosis implants. Design: Pilot study. Setting: Volunteers in an academic research environment. Patient(s) Premenopausal women scheduled for surgery for suspected endometriosis. Intervention(s): Surgical excision of endometriosis tissue and uterine endometrial biopsy. Main Outcome Measure(s): Gene expression. Result(s): The expression of eight genes from a total of 4.133 genes on the DNA microarray was increased in endometriosis implants compared with uterine endometrium. The eight genes were beta-actin, alpha-2 actin, vimentin, 40S ribosomal protein S23. Ig-lambda light chain, Ig germline H chain G-E-A region gamma-2 constant region gene, major histocompatibility complex class 1.C, and complement component 1 S subcomponent. Conclusion(s): The data demonstrate that the DNA microarray is an effective tool for the identification of differentially expressed genes between uterine and ectopic endometrium;further study of the genes identified herein will expand our understanding of the nature of endometriosis and assist in the eventual development of new treatments for endometriosis. (Fertil Steril(R) 2002;77:38-42. (C) 2002 by American Society for Reproductive Medicine.).