XRF anlayses to unravel the role of iron and other metals in endometriosis

Endometriosis is an inflammatory disease affecting about 10% of women of reproductive age, which is still poorly understood. A role of iron has been proposed. In endometriosis, iron accumulation can occur within endometrial lesions and peritoneal macrophages. This project aimed at investigating by XRF microscopy the appearance of environmental chemical elements, that possibly colocalize with the iron in the invading endometrium. Analyses will be correlated to clinical information. The study will expand actual knowledge and findings, possibly suggest therapeutic interventions.