Effects of the copper intrauterine device on the expression of cyclooxygenase-1 and -2 in the endometrium

• Published in: International journal of gynecology and obstetrics 2009-05, Vol.105 (2), p.166-168
• Main Authors: Xin, Zhi Min, Cao, Lu Min, Xie, Qin Zhen, Sun, Yingpu, Su, Ying Chun, Guo, Yi Hong
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Adult; Biological and medical sciences; Cyclooxygenase 1 - metabolism; Cyclooxygenase 2 - metabolism; Cyclooxygenase-1; Cyclooxygenase-2; Endometrium; Endometrium - metabolism; Female; Gynecology. Andrology. Obstetrics; Humans; Intrauterine device; Intrauterine Devices, Copper - adverse effects; Medical sciences; Obstetrics and Gynecology
• ISSN: 0020-7292; 1879-3479
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijgo.2008.12.018

Abstract Objective To examine the expression levels of cyclooxygenase (COX)-1 and COX-2 in the endometrium before and after insertion of the copper intrauterine device (Cu-IUD). Methods Ten patients were investigated. Two endometrial biopsies were taken from the uterus of each patient. The first biopsy was taken prior to insertion of the Cu-IUD, and the second was taken 1 month after insertion on the same day of the menstrual cycle and from the same location. The levels of COX-1 and COX-2 mRNA and protein in the endometrium were determined using reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blotting. Results Before insertion, expression of COX-2 mRNA and proteins was 0.399 ± 0.014 and 14.75 ± 1.31, respectively. Post insertion, expression of COX-2 mRNA and proteins was 0.563 ± 0.041 and 18.61 ± 1.93, respectively. A significant increase ( P < 0.05) of COX between pre and post insertion of the Cu-IUD was only seen with COX-2. There was no significant change in the level of COX-1 mRNA or proteins before and after insertion of the Cu-IUD. Conclusion COX-2 is the primary isoenzyme stimulating overproduction of prostaglandins in the endometrium after the insertion of Cu-IUDs.