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Scientists identify bacteria behind endometriosis, raising hope that antibiotics could cure it

Scientists identify bacteria behind endometriosis, raising hope that antibiotics

Scientists have linked a common bacterium to endometriosis, paving the way for a new era of antibiotic treatments.

For years, endometriosis has been one of the most misunderstood and painful diseases affecting women worldwide. But a landmark study, published in the journal Science Translational Medicine, suggests that a common bacterium, Fusobacterium, may be one of the main drivers of the disease's progression.

Researchers found that this bacteria, which is often found in the mouth or intestines, was present in the uterine lining of over 60% of women with endometriosis, compared to just 7% of healthy women. The infection appears to activate a protein called TGF-beta, which turns normal cells into more aggressive cells that promote the formation of lesions.

This discovery brings hope for new treatment options beyond surgery and hormone therapy. In animal studies, treating the infection with antibiotics such as Metronidazole significantly reduced both the number and severity of endometriosis lesions.

However, clinical trials in humans are still needed to confirm whether these results will be the same. Nevertheless, this discovery represents a very important step towards understanding and more effective treatment of this disease.