In April, a team at The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine in Farmington, Connecticut launched a new initiative to study endometriosis, a painful condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside of the uterus. This project is supported by the first government-mandated spending on endometriosis research in the country.

The researchers began receiving tissue samples from patients who recently received treatment at the neighboring UConn Health Center and agreed to donate their tissue for storage and study. With scores of samples already collected from more than a dozen patients, the team hopes that this tissue, along with the patients’ clinical stories, will lead to a better understanding, identification, and treatment of this commonly misdiagnosed condition.

Endometriosis can be a challenging condition to diagnose and treat, often causing severe pain and fertility issues for many women. By studying these tissue samples and patient stories, the research team aims to make strides in improving the diagnosis and treatment options available for individuals suffering from endometriosis.

The groundbreaking initiative at The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine is a significant step forward in advancing research on endometriosis, bringing hope for better outcomes and quality of life for those affected by this debilitating condition.