Endometriosis is a chronic, systemic, and often painful condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (called the endometrium) grows outside the uterus, leading to inflammation, scarring, and in some cases, infertility. Affecting an estimated 1 in 10 women, it is notoriously underdiagnosed and misunderstood. Symptoms can vary widely –from debilitating pelvic pain to gastrointestinal issues – making early detection and effective treatment a persistent challenge.
At The Jackson Laboratory (JAX), Elise Courtois, Ph.D., leads a pioneering research team in the Courtois Lab, which focuses on the fundamental biology of the disease – why it spreads, how it causes pain, and what drives its recurrence. Despite its prevalence, the causes of endometriosis remain poorly understood. Courtois is changing that.
Using cutting-edge technologies like 3D modeling, single-cell sequencing, and spatial ‘omics, the lab is mapping how tissue, cells, and molecules respond to endometriosis lesions. By identifying key cellular and molecular mechanisms for diagnostic approaches, the Courtois Lab is laying the groundwork for more personalized and effective treatments for those living with the condition.
EndoRISE stands for Endometriosis Research, Innovation, Support, and Education, and it represents a first-of-its-kind, state-supported, multi-institutional program to tackle endometriosis from every angle. In June 2024, EndoRISE was established as a groundbreaking initiative born from House Bill 6672, passed in 2023. With a focus on public awareness, clinical education, and community engagement, the program is designed to improve both understanding and care.
At the heart of EndoRISE is a robust biorepository and data program. As co-director of the program, Courtois and her lab at JAX are responsible for playing a central role by storing, validating, and distributing tissue and specimen samples to researchers nationwide. The samples, many of which are provided by UConn Health and other hospital partners, are critical for advancing early detection methods and developing new therapeutic strategies. By bringing together scientists, clinicians, patients, and policymakers, EndoRISE has created a replicable framework in Connecticut that other states can follow to address this critical public health issue.
Connecticut is poised to become a hub for endometriosis research and innovation following the unanimous passage of House Bill 6672, “An Act Concerning Endometriosis,” which creates a first-of-its-kind endometriosis data and biorepository program to bring greater awareness, action and care options to those suffering from the condition.
View more
An early screening of a new film, “Below the Belt," took place March 7 at The Jackson Laboratory’s Farmington, Conn. campus. Directed by award-winning filmmaker, attorney, social movement builder and endometriosis patient Shannon Cohn, the film sheds light on endometriosis, an understudied and underfunded disease, and the many challenges it poses to patients, family members and providers.
View more
Elise Courtois, Ph.D., is an endometriosis researcher, but she doesn't know much about the disease. That's because no one knows much about endometriosis, which can cause debilitating pain and infertility in women.
View more