Relationship between the degree of endometrial periglandular fibrosis and the presence of angiotensin-converting enzyme in the equine endometrium.

The research article discusses the possible link between the enzyme angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) and the disease endometrial periglandular fibrosis (EPF), a cause of embryonic and fetal loss in horses. It reveals that an increase in ACE activity significantly correlates with the onset and progression of EPF.

Endometrial Periglandular Fibrosis and the Role of Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme

• The research investigates the progression of endometrial periglandular fibrosis (EPF), a disease in horses which could lead to embryonic and fetal loss.
• The possible reason behind the cause of the disease, its pathophysiology, remains largely undocumented with theories suggesting the involvement of an enzyme called the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE).
• ACE is found in macrophages, endothelium during angiogenesis, and myofibroblasts at fibrosis sites in tissues like heart, kidneys, liver, and skin across various species.
• The research posits that an increase in local tissue ACE-binding activity could be a crucial factor in triggering the onset and progression of fibrosis in these tissues.

The Study Method and Findings

• The main objective of the study was to determine the correlation between ACE activity within the equine endometrium and the degree of EPF. This is achieved through a histological review and morphometry based on a collagen-specific stain.
• The ACE-binding activity was seen to be significantly higher in endometrial samples with moderate EPF (modified Kenney EPF category IIB) than all other endometria categories.
• At a microscopic level, the fibroblasts surrounding the glandular basal laminae in modified Kenney EPF category IIB and III endometria seemed to be undergoing changes similar to myofibroblastic transformation.

Conclusion

• The observations and results of the study indicate a potential association between ACE activity and the onset of EPF in mares.
• This increased understanding could aid in the development of more effective diagnosis and treatment strategies for equine embryonic and fetal loss related to EPF.