Low levels of a specific compound found in feces may indicate the presence of endometriosis, with potential supplementation of this compound leading to better management of the condition.
Endometriosis affects nearly 200 million people globally, characterized by the growth of tissue similar to the uterine lining outside the uterus. There is currently no definitive cure, but surgical removal of lesions can be performed after diagnosis. Unfortunately, due to insufficient awareness and understanding, the average time to receive a diagnosis of endometriosis exceeds six years.
Prior studies have hinted at the influence of the gut microbiome on endometriosis. Researchers conducted an investigation involving stool samples from 18 women diagnosed with endometriosis and 31 women without the condition. This analysis focused on the bacterial composition and metabolic byproducts in the feces.
The findings revealed that women with endometriosis exhibited lower levels of the metabolite 4-hydroxyindole in their feces, potentially linked to changes in their gut microbiome.
This discovery suggests that commercial stool analyses could facilitate quick screening for this frequently “underdiagnosed, understudied, and underappreciated” condition, leading to timely and effective management. “Stool is simple to collect, and it’s non-invasive compared to traditional diagnostic methods like laparoscopy,” noted a lead researcher.
Further research to determine whether 4-hydroxyindole has protective properties involved administering the metabolite to mice with induced endometriosis. After 14 days, although the number of lesions remained unchanged, those treated with 4-hydroxyindole showed significantly reduced severity and pain levels.
Additional tests demonstrated considerable improvement in lesions among mice with established endometriosis when treated with 4-hydroxyindole, mirroring positive results in mice implanted with human endometriosis tissue. This suggests that the treatment could have potential for human application.
Researchers emphasize the promise of 4-hydroxyindole as a therapeutic option, highlighting its natural occurrence in the body, distinguishing it from synthetic drugs. However, extensive human trials are necessary to validate the efficacy of 4-hydroxyindole in diagnosing and treating endometriosis.
Topics:
- women’s health/
- microbiome
