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EU-funded researchers are studying the molecular mechanisms of endometriosis in the hope of finding new treatment options for the millions of women with this inflammatory disease in the world.
Endometriosis is a chronic disease that affects about 1 in 10 women of childbearing age, but the underlying causes remain poorly understood. The EU-funded MOMENDO project is investigating the molecular mechanisms behind this disease to define new treatment options and improve outcomes for patients.
There is no curative treatment of endometriosis, in which tissues similar to the lining of the uterus grow outside the uterus, inducing a chronic inflammatory reaction. Although scientists have established general concepts of causes, the underlying mechanisms have not yet been fully understood, making it difficult to develop effective targeted therapies with limited side effects.
MOMENDO researchers use a range of experimental methods and conceptual approaches that will contribute to a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms contributing to the disease and its evolution. Their goal is to develop new treatment options that will eliminate the need for invasive surgery.
These new methods include epigenetic tissue studies, advanced animal models of the disease, and atomic force microscopy, a type of imaging used in molecular biology and other fields. One of the project's goals is to identify biomarkers – molecules that signal endometriosis – that could lead to the development of a diagnostic blood test.
Symptoms badociated with endometriosis include painful ovulation and menstruation, pain during or after intercourse, heavy bleeding, chronic pelvic pain, fatigue and infertility, as well as adverse effects on well-being physical, mental and social aspects of the patient.
According to the World Endometriosis Research Foundation, endometriosis also has significant socio-economic effects. Its latest EndoCost study, which looks at the cost of the disease worldwide, found that it reduced labor productivity for 51% of those affected and negatively affected the relationships of 50% of women.
Currently available treatments include invasive and repeat surgery, as well as hormonal suppression, which has significant side effects similar to those of early menopause. The research conducted as part of MOMENDO should lead to less invasive therapeutic options, while a better understanding of the disease could improve fertility outcomes.
MOMENDO has received funding from the EU's Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellowship Program.
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