2.2. Induction of endometriosis in mice

Endometriosis was induced in ten mice using a modified version of the syngeneic endometriosis protocol that has been used previously in our laboratory.18 In accordance with this model, identical sizes of uterine tissue fragments were sutured onto the peritoneal surface. Three mice in oestrus stage were killed using a CO₂ chamber, both uterine horns from each mouse were removed and opened longitudinally and divided into equal fragments measuring 4 mm². These fragments were preserved on ice in DMEM/F12 Ham 1:1 media (Gibco; Grand Island, NY, USA) until transplantation. For implantation, ten mice were anaesthetized by inhalation of isoflurane (Isothesia; Henry Schein, OH, USA) and laparotomy was performed by midline incision. Two uterine fragments were sutured on each right and left peritoneal surface area using 5‐0 polyglactin sutures (Vicryl; Ethicon, Somerville, NJ, USA). Subsequently, the peritoneum and skin were closed with same sutures.