Lipoxin A4 inhibits the development of endometriosis in mice: the role of anti-inflammation and anti-angiogenesis.

Problem To evaluate the effects of the anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic roles of LXA4 on endometriosis in mice. Method of study Endometriosis was induced in 40 mice and separated into two groups. LXA4 group was administered by LXA4 for 3 weeks. The endometriotic lesions were counted, measured, and identified by pathology. The presence of a panel of pro-inflammatory factors was assessed by real-time RT-PCR, and enzyme-linked immunoassay, the mRNA, protein levels of matrix metalloproteinase (MMPs), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were determined by real-time RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry; the activity of MMPs was evaluated by gelatin zymography. Results Treatment with LXA4 significantly inhibited endometriotic lesion development (13.58 +/- 4.01 mm(2) in LXA4 group and 23.20 +/- 7.49 mm(2), P = 0.0002), downregulated pro-inflammatory factors, suppressed the activity of MMP9, and reduced the VEGF levels associated with endometriosis in mice. Conclusion LXA4 may inhibit the progression of endometriosis possibly by anti-inflammation and anti-angiogenesis.