Investigating mutations in endometriosis lesions and progesterone resistance

Prospective Clinical Study of the Relationship Between Cancer Driving Mutations Found in Endometriotic Implants and the Development of Progesterone Resistance

Johns Hopkins University · NCT03756480

This study is trying to see how changes in endometriosis tissue might affect treatment response to progesterone in women with the condition.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment135 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 45 Years
SexFemale
SponsorJohns Hopkins University (other)
Locations3 sites (New Haven, Connecticut and 2 other locations)
Trial IDNCT03756480 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to explore the molecular changes in ectopic endometriosis lesions and their correlation with progesterone resistance. It will analyze tissue samples from 100 patients diagnosed with endometriosis, comparing responders and non-responders to treatment. Advanced techniques such as droplet digital PCR and whole exome sequencing will be employed to identify cancer-associated mutations and other relevant molecular characteristics in matched eutopic and ectopic tissues.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are females aged 18-45 with a clinical or surgical diagnosis of endometriosis undergoing laparoscopy.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of reproductive tract cancer or those currently using steroidal therapies may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for women suffering from endometriosis and progesterone resistance.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in understanding endometriosis through molecular analysis, but this specific approach is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Signed informed consent.
* Gender: female.
* Age: 18-45 years at the time of signing consent.
* Clinical or surgical diagnosis of endometriosis undergoing laparoscopy.
* Controls may not have clinical or surgical diagnosis of endometriosis.
* Regular menstrual cycles.
* BMI between 18-40 kg/m2.
* Sexually active or have had a previous vaginal exam that used a speculum.
* English speaking

Exclusion Criteria:

* Use of any kind of steroidal therapy including oral contraceptives, Norplant, estrogen replacement/supplemental therapy, androgens (Danazol, Cyclomen, Danocrine, testosterone) or progesterone. She may not be taking or be on Celebrex.
* Pregnant.
* Presence of pelvic infection.
* Mullerian anomalies with absence of a cervix.
* History of cancer of the reproductive tract.
* Presence of undiagnosed uterine bleeding.
* Treatment with intrauterine device (IUD) or progestin-containing intrauterine device.

Where this trial is running

New Haven, Connecticut and 2 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Endometriosis, Endometrial Diseases

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.