The role of the CXC chemokine family in endometriosis research and its therapeutic potential

Abstract

Endometriosis (EM) is a chronic estrogen-dependent gynecological disease that affects approximately 10% of women of reproductive age and is a leading cause of infertility worldwide. In addition to reproductive dysfunction, EM is associated with chronic pain, psychological distress, and significant healthcare costs, yet its etiopathogenesis remains incompletely understood. Chemokines, especially members of the CXC family, have attracted increasing attention for their roles in EM-related inflammation, immune dysregulation, cell migration, angiogenesis, and pain modulation. These small signaling proteins, typically 8-10 kDa in size, are aberrantly expressed in ectopic lesions and participate in both disease initiation and progression. This review aims to systematically summarize current research on the expression patterns and biological functions of CXC chemokines in EM, with a particular focus on their contributions to diagnostic strategies, pathological mechanisms, and therapeutic development. While emerging evidence highlights their importance, further studies are needed to clarify subtype-specific mechanisms and clinical applicability. Understanding the roles of CXC chemokines may help uncover novel molecular targets for diagnosis and intervention, thereby advancing more effective and personalized treatments for patients with endometriosis.

Keywords: Chemokines; Endometriosis; Gynecological; CXC family.