Conclusion
Macrophages are critical cells involved in the process of endometrial repair and fibrosis. The decreased amount of endometrial macrophages may be attributed to the reduced expression level of CSF1. Manipulation of macrophage activation/function may provide a novel therapeutic target for AS.
Results
In AS patients, endometrial stroma was replaced by fibrous tissue and cell proliferation was reduced. Macrophages in endometrial tissue were mainly alternative activated macrophages and their number was significantly decreased in AS patients. The CSF1 expression level was reduced in AS patients. M(IL-4/13)-S promoted the growth and migration of IK cells and inhibited H2 O2 -induced apoptosis. M(IL-4/13)-S protected IK cells from bleomycin-induced fibrosis.