The Role of Genetics in Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a chronic disease that affects 10-15% of women in their childbearing years and peaks between the ages of 25 and 35. In this disease, the endometrial tissue of the uterus is formed and grows outside of it. Family studies and investigation of twins show that endometriosis is more common in the relatives of the infected individuals. Studies on the role of genetics and the environment in the development of endometriosis show that this disease is caused by an interaction between genetics and environment. Of course, it is very difficult to clarify the genetic components because various genes seem to cause predispose to endometriosis. Various studies have shown the involvement of defects in different gens in the occurrence of endometriosis. In this article, we examine the role of genetics in the development of endometriosis by reviewing of known genetic factors and cellular pathways.