Effect of platelet-derived growth factor on endometrial stromal cell proliferation in vitro: a model for endometriosis?
OBJECTIVE
To assess the direct effects of platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), a macrophage secretory product structurally and functionally similar to substances released by peritoneal macrophages isolated from endometriosis patients, on endometrial cell proliferation.


METHODS
Prospective analysis of cell proliferation in vitro.


METHODS
Proliferative phase endometrial stromal cells isolated from biopsy specimens were grown in short-term culture and served as a model for stromal components of endometriotic implants.


METHODS
Biopsies were obtained from regularly cycling volunteers without endometrial pathology.


METHODS
Platelet-derived growth factor was added to nutrient medium in both the presence and absence of suboptimal (2.5%) calf serum (CS) supplements and a physiological estradiol (E2) concentration (10(-9) M).


METHODS
Cumulative [3H]-thymidine incorporation as a reflection of cell proliferation.


RESULTS
Platelet-derived growth factor exerted a significant dose-dependent effect on stromal cell proliferation in both the presence and absence of CS (P less than 0.01). This effect was enhanced in, at best, an additive but not synergistic manner by E2 10(-9) M.


CONCLUSIONS
These data imply that macrophage secretory products such as PDGF may play a significant role in the maintenance or proliferation of endometriosis.
Department of Obstetrics, University of California-Los Angeles School of Medicine.
E S
ES
Surrey
J
J
Halme
D000328:Adult; D002455:Cell Division / Q000187:drug effects; D002478:Cells, Cultured; D004247:DNA / Q000096:biosynthesis; D004347:Drug Interactions; D004717:Endometrium / Q000166:cytology*; D004958:Estradiol / Q000494:pharmacology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D010982:Platelet-Derived Growth Factor / Q000494:pharmacology*
D010982:Platelet-Derived Growth Factor; D004958:Estradiol; D004247:DNA