Zinc Ions in the Management of Endometriosis Pain

Abstract

Zinc is one of the most abundant trace elements which plays a major role in genetic stability and function. It is found in cell nucleus, nucleolus and chromosomes where it is involved in stabilization of DNA, and RNA structure. In the cytoplasm, zinc is involved in stabilizing the ribosomes and forms part of many proteins and enzymes. We investigated the role of zinc in the management of endometriosis pain through measurement of prostaglandins in endometriotic and endometrial cell line supernatants and serum samples. Immortalized human endometrial stromal (T-HESC), endometriotic stromal (22B) and epithelial (12ZVK) cell lines were used. Cells were Stimulated with various concentrations of zinc and fetal calf serum (FCS) to optimize the best zinc dosage and media for optimal growth. Supernatants were collected and serum from patients who were taking zinc to relieve endometriotic pain Levels of Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and PGF2 were measured in supernatants from cells treated with Zinc and serum from patients and controls. 5μM zinc and 1% FCS concentration were optimal for cell growth. Interestingly, endometriotic serum samples secreted higher levels of PGE2 compared to controls. PGF2 secretion in serum obtained from endometriotic patients and controls showed no significant difference. This study underscores the importance of zinc in pain relief and need for further investigation.