The GSTM1 (Glutathione S-transferase M1) gene plays a crucial role in detoxifying harmful substances and managing oxidative stress in the body, playing a key role in oestrogen metabolism. Deletions of this gene, known as the GSTM1-null genotype, have been linked to an increased risk of ovarian endometriosis and endometriosis-related infertility.
In a study by Zhang et al. (2021) conducted in northern China, it was observed that women with the GSTM1-null genotype had a 29% increased risk of developing ovarian endometriosis and a 61% higher chance of experiencing primary infertility than women with a functional GSTM1 gene. The study also highlighted that the absence of GSTM1 activity leads to reduced mRNA expression in endometrial tissue, which suggests a diminished capacity to defend against oxidative stress.
These findings indicate that the deletion of the GSTM1 gene could serve as a genetic marker for susceptibility to ovarian endometriosis and associated infertility (Zhang et al., 2021).This insight could inform targeted strategies for early detection and personalised treatment approaches for affected patients.
Zhang, H.-B., Li, Y., Wu, J.-L., Zhao, J., Tian, Y.-J., & Kang, S. (2021). Genetic variation of glutathione s-transferase M1 is associated with patients with ovarian endometriosis and endometriosis-related primary infertility. Public Health Genomics, 24(5–6), 261–266. https://doi.org/10.1159/000517266
