In vivo analysis of angiogenesis in endometriosis-like lesions by intravital fluorescence microscopy.
OBJECTIVE
To establish a novel endometriosis model that allows for repetitive in vivo analyses of angiogenesis in ectopic endometrial tissue.


METHODS
Intravital fluorescence microscopic study.


METHODS
Institute for Clinical and Experimental Surgery, University of Saarland.


METHODS
Female Syrian golden hamsters equipped with skinfold chambers.


METHODS
Large (0.5 mm2) and small (0.1 mm2) endometrial fragments were mechanically isolated and transplanted autologously into skinfold chambers of untreated hormonally synchronized or bilaterally ovariectomized hamsters.


METHODS
Angiogenesis, vascularization, and microhemodynamics were analyzed over a 14-day period.


RESULTS
In untreated controls, endometrial fragments developed complete microvascular networks during the experimental observation period. Interestingly, microvascular blood flow was higher in large than in small fragments. Histologic examinations revealed proliferating endometriosis-like lesions with dilated endometrial glands surrounded by a richly vascularized stroma. Vascularization of endometrial fragments in synchronized animals did not differ from that of untreated controls. In contrast, endometrial fragments in ovariectomized animals showed a delay in angiogenesis and a significantly decreased blood perfusion, indicating the essential role of ovarian estrogens for ectopic vascularization and perfusion of endometrial tissue.


CONCLUSIONS
This novel model of endometrial tissue transplantation is a useful experimental approach, not only to focus on the in vivo pathogenesis of endometriosis but also to develop antiangiogenic strategies for the treatment of this disease.
Laschke
Matthias W
MW
Institute for Clinical and Experimental Surgery, University of Saarland, Homburg/Saar, Germany.
Elitzsch
Antje
A
Vollmar
Brigitte
B
Menger
Michael D
MD
D000818:Animals; D006224:Cricetinae; D004715:Endometriosis / Q000473:pathology*; D004717:Endometrium / Q000098:blood supply* / Q000473:pathology*; D005260:Female; D008647:Mesocricetus; D008856:Microscopy, Fluorescence / Q000379:methods*; D009389:Neovascularization, Pathologic / Q000473:pathology*