Ancient genes and modern chemicals may raise endo risk, study finds

Ancient genes combined with exposure to modern chemicals may help explain why some women develop endometriosis, new research suggests.

The study found six genetic variants that were more common in women with the condition.

Some of these variations appear to have been inherited from early human ancestors, including Neanderthals and other ancient populations.

Dr Anna Mantzouratou, a visiting fellow at Bournemouth University who supervised the research, said: “The variants we saw have been part of the human genome for a very long time, but the modern chemical environment is new, and we’re beginning to understand how these interactions might influence conditions like endometriosis.”

Researchers at Bournemouth University identified five genes most likely to be linked to endometriosis, which are also particularly sensitive to common chemicals that can interfere with hormones and disrupt the immune system.

Using the NHS’s Genomics England database, the team compared these genes in 19 women diagnosed with endometriosis against women without the condition.

Several of the variations occur in genes known to react to chemicals once considered harmless but now found in plastics, cosmetics and household products.

The researchers believe this combination of inherited genetic traits and chemical exposure could disrupt the immune system, potentially causing the inflammation associated with endometriosis.

Around one in ten women of reproductive age have endometriosis, a gynaecological condition that can cause severe pain and inflammation.

“Endometriosis has come to the forefront in recent years and a lot more people understand what it is, but it remains difficult to diagnose early and often goes untreated,” said Amelia Warren, who led the study as part of her master’s degree.

“Ultrasounds do not usually pick up the small signs and pelvic pain is often assumed to be normal for a woman during her period.

“As a result, it’s typically the most severe cases that get diagnosed.

Warren added: “I think a lot of women with endometriosis feel that they are not being listened to and nothing is being done.

“Showing them that we are trying to do something for them and trying to make a difference is really important for me.”