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Ishikawa H, Goto Y, Hirooka C, Katayama E, Baba N, Kaneko M, Saito Y, Kobayashi T, Koga K. Role of inflammation and immune response in the pathogenesis of uterine fibroids: Including their negative impact on reproductive outcomes. J Reprod Immunol 2024; 165:104317. [PMID: 39154624 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2024.104317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2024] [Revised: 07/31/2024] [Accepted: 08/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024]
Abstract
Uterine fibroids (UFs), the most common tumors in women of reproductive age, are characterized by sex steroid-dependent growth and excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) surrounding UF smooth muscle cells. Women with symptomatic UFs experience heavy menstrual bleeding and consequent iron-deficiency anemia. They also have a risk of recurrent pregnancy loss, preterm birth, and cesarean delivery, indicating that UFs can negatively affect reproductive outcomes. Various types of immune cells, including innate and adaptive cells, are observed in UFs; however, the impact of these cells on the pathophysiology of UFs remains unclear. Inflammation may play important roles in the growth of UFs, and expression levels of proinflammatory and inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α, and TGF-β, are upregulated in UFs. These cytokines play important roles in the interaction between growth factors and ECM that is regulated by the sex steroids estrogen and progesterone. Furthermore, proinflammatory mediators are upregulated in females with UFs, with higher expression levels in the endometrium with submucosal and intramural UFs than in the endometrium without UFs, indicating that these proinflammatory cytokines may impair endometrial receptivity, leading to implantation failure in in vitro fertilization programs. Hormonal treatments using gonadotropin releasing hormone analogs and the selective progesterone receptor modulator ulipristal acetate significantly shrink UFs and improve UF-related symptoms. These compounds can regulate local inflammation in UFs and adjacent myometrium. Controlling and improving local inflammation caused by UFs may represent a novel therapeutic strategy for UFs and potentially improve reproductive outcomes in women with symptomatic UFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Ishikawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan.
| | - Yuki Goto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Chigusa Hirooka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Eri Katayama
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Nao Baba
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Meika Kaneko
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yoshiko Saito
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Kobayashi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan; Department of Regulatory Science, Research Promotion Unit, School of Medical Science, Fujita Health University, Aichi, Japan; Fujita Health University Haneda clinic, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kaori Koga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
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Altinoz MA, Yilmaz A, Taghizadehghalehjoughi A, Genc S, Yeni Y, Gecili I, Hacimuftuoglu A. Ulipristal-temozolomide-hydroxyurea combination for glioblastoma: in-vitro studies. J Neurosurg Sci 2024; 68:468-481. [PMID: 35766205 DOI: 10.23736/s0390-5616.22.05718-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a brain malignancy with worst survival. Low dose progesterone stimulates GBM growth, while progesterone receptor (PR)-antagonist mifepristone was shown to reduce growth and to enhance temozolomide sensitivity in GBM cells. Mifepristone is not available in all countries due to ethical reasons and may cause adrenal insufficiency and pelvic infections. Ulipristal is also a PR-antagonist used in treatment of uterine leiomyomas with higher biosafety. Ulipristal is demonstrated to suppress growth of breast cancer, yet it is not tested as yet whether it can also block growth and sensitize to temozolomide in glioblastoma as it was previously shown with mifepristone. Our first aim was to detect whether ulipristal exerts antiproliferative and chemotherapy-sensitizing effects in glioblastoma. Hydroxyurea inhibits DNA replication via blocking ribonucleotide reductase (RR) and it was demonstrated to increase temozolomide antineoplasticity in GBM. Progesterone receptor-activation in the uterus enhances RR transcription. Hence, we have hypothesized that PR-inactivation with ulipristal would further enhance hydroxyurea antineoplasticity by shutting down DNA synthesis mechanisms through further suppression of RR. Lastly, there exists no study as yet whether ulipristal, hydroxyurea and temozolomide could exert ternary antineoplastic efficacy, which was our last aim to define. METHODS To reveal interactions between ulipristal, hydroxyurea and temozolomide, we treated human U251 GBM cell line with these agents alone and in combination and measured cell proliferation, total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and total oxidant status (TOS) in conditioned medium and cellular cytokine gene expressions. RESULTS All agents significantly reduced cell proliferation significantly, yet the most significant decrease of GBM cells occurred with the triple drug combination at the 96th hour. All agents significantly decreased TAC and increased TOS in culture media, which was mostly relevant for the triple combination at the 96th hour. All these three agents tend to reduce the expression of immunosuppressive and/or GBM-growth stimulating cytokines TGF-β, IL-10 and IL-17 while increasing the expression of GBM-growth suppressing cytokine IL-23. CONCLUSIONS Reproposal of these agents in treatment of GBM would be a plausible approach if future studies prove their efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meric A Altinoz
- Department of Biochemistry, Acibadem University, Istanbul, Türkiye -
| | - Aysegul Yilmaz
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Ataturk University, Erzurum, Türkiye
| | - Ali Taghizadehghalehjoughi
- Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, Veterinary Medicine, Ataturk University, Erzurum, Türkiye
| | - Sidika Genc
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Ataturk University, Erzurum, Türkiye
| | - Yesim Yeni
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Ataturk University, Erzurum, Türkiye
| | - Ibrahim Gecili
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Ataturk University, Erzurum, Türkiye
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Singh S, Kumar P, Rathore SS, Singh Y, Garg N. Contemporary approaches in the management of uterine leiomyomas. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2023; 287:195-210. [PMID: 37385088 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2023.06.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Leiomyomas (fibroids), the most common benign solid tumours in females, originate from the myometrium and are associated with poor quality of life for patients. The current management of uterine leiomyomas mainly includes surgical interventions such as hysterectomy and myomectomy, either by laparoscopy or laparotomy, which have several complications and are not ideal for preserving fertility. Therefore, there is a need to develop or repurpose medical treatments that do not require surgical intervention. OBJECTIVE Many drugs are used to treat the symptoms associated with uterine fibroids. The main objective of this systematic review is to give an up-to-date account of potential pharmacological agents (non-surgical methods) for the management of uterine leiomyomas. SEARCH STRATEGY PubMed was searched for scientific and clinical literature using the keyword 'uterine fibroids' along with the drug names described in each section. For example, 'uterine fibroids' and 'ulipristal acetate' were the keywords used to search for literature on ulipristal acetate (UPA). RESULTS Various preclinical and clinical studies have shown that some drugs and herbal formulations exhibit activity in the management of uterine leiomyomas. Recent studies found that drugs such as UPA, elagolix, EC313, asoprisnol, nutritional supplements and herbal preparations were helpful in treating the symptoms associated with uterine leiomyomas. CONCLUSION Many drugs show efficacy in patients with symptomatic uterine fibroids. UPA is one of the most studied and prescribed medicines for uterine fibroids; however, its usage has been restricted due to a few recent incidences of hepatic toxicity. Herbal drugs and natural supplements have also shown promising effects on uterine fibroids. The synergistic effects of nutritional and herbal supplements have been reported in certain cases, and should be studied in detail. Further research is warranted to identify the mode of action of the drugs, and to determine the precise conditions that would explain the causes of toxicity in some patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shikha Singh
- Department of Prasuti Tantra, Faculty of Ayurveda, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Praveen Kumar
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Ayurveda, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Saurabh Singh Rathore
- Department of Biotechnology, Mahatma Gandhi Central University, Raghunathpur, Motihari, East Champaran, Bihar, India
| | - Yashasvi Singh
- Department of Urology, CSSB, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Neha Garg
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Ayurveda, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India.
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Szydłowska I, Grabowska M, Nawrocka-Rutkowska J, Kram A, Piasecka M, Starczewski A. Markers of Inflammation and Vascular Parameters in Selective Progesterone Receptor Modulator (Ulipristal Acetate)-Treated Uterine Fibroids. J Clin Med 2021; 10:3721. [PMID: 34442017 PMCID: PMC8397116 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10163721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The exact mechanism of selective progesterone receptor modulator action in leiomyoma still challenges researchers. The aim of the study was to assess the effects of ulipristal acetate (UPA) on immunoexpression of inflammatory markers and vascularization in fibroids. UPA-treated patients were divided into three groups: (1) good response (≥25% reduction in volume of fibroid), (2) weak response (insignificant volume reduction), (3) and no response to treatment (no decrease or increase in fibroid volume). The percentage of TGFβ, IL6, IL10, CD117, and CD68-positive cells were significantly lower in the group with a good response to treatment vs. the control group. Moreover, the percentage of IL10 and CD68-positive cells in the group with a good response to treatment were also significantly lower compared to the no response group. Additionally, a significant decrease in the percentage of IL10-positive cells was found in the good response group vs. the weak response group. There were no statistical differences in the percentage of TNFα-positive cells and vessel parameters between all compared groups. The results of the study indicate that a good response to UPA treatment may be associated with a decrease of inflammatory markers, but it does not influence myoma vascularization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iwona Szydłowska
- Department of Gynecology, Endocrinology and Gynecological Oncology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Unii Lubelskiej 1 Street, 71-252 Szczecin, Poland; (J.N.-R.); (A.S.)
| | - Marta Grabowska
- Department of Histology and Developmental Biology, Pomeranian Medical University, Żołnierska 48 Street, 71-210 Szczecin, Poland;
| | - Jolanta Nawrocka-Rutkowska
- Department of Gynecology, Endocrinology and Gynecological Oncology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Unii Lubelskiej 1 Street, 71-252 Szczecin, Poland; (J.N.-R.); (A.S.)
| | - Andrzej Kram
- Department of Pathology, West Pomeranian Oncology Center, Strzałowska 22 Street, 71-730 Szczecin, Poland;
| | - Małgorzata Piasecka
- Department of Histology and Developmental Biology, Pomeranian Medical University, Żołnierska 48 Street, 71-210 Szczecin, Poland;
| | - Andrzej Starczewski
- Department of Gynecology, Endocrinology and Gynecological Oncology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Unii Lubelskiej 1 Street, 71-252 Szczecin, Poland; (J.N.-R.); (A.S.)
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5
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Molecular and Cellular Insights into the Development of Uterine Fibroids. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22168483. [PMID: 34445194 PMCID: PMC8395213 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine leiomyomas represent the most common benign gynecologic tumor. These hormone-dependent smooth-muscle formations occur with an estimated prevalence of ~70% among women of reproductive age and cause symptoms including pain, abnormal uterine bleeding, infertility, and recurrent abortion. Despite the prevalence and public health impact of uterine leiomyomas, available treatments remain limited. Among the potential causes of leiomyomas, early hormonal exposure during periods of development may result in developmental reprogramming via epigenetic changes that persist in adulthood, leading to disease onset or progression. Recent developments in unbiased high-throughput sequencing technology enable powerful approaches to detect driver mutations, yielding new insights into the genomic instability of leiomyomas. Current data also suggest that each leiomyoma originates from the clonal expansion of a single transformed somatic stem cell of the myometrium. In this review, we propose an integrated cellular and molecular view of the origins of leiomyomas, as well as paradigm-shifting studies that will lead to better understanding and the future development of non-surgical treatments for these highly frequent tumors.
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Zou LL, Li JR, Li H, Tan JL, Wang MX, Liu NN, Gao RM, Yan HY, Wang XK, Dong B, Li YH, Peng ZG. TGF-β isoforms inhibit hepatitis C virus propagation in transforming growth factor beta/SMAD protein signalling pathway dependent and independent manners. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:3498-3510. [PMID: 33682288 PMCID: PMC8034461 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor beta (TGF‐β) plays an important role in the viral liver disease progression via controlling viral propagation and mediating inflammation‐associated responses. However, the antiviral activities and mechanisms of TGF‐β isoforms, including TGF‐β1, TGF‐β2 and TGF‐β3, remain unclear. Here, we demonstrated that all of the three TGF‐β isoforms were increased in Huh7.5 cells infected by hepatitis C virus (HCV), but in turn, the elevated TGF‐β isoforms could inhibit HCV propagation with different potency in infectious HCV cell culture system. TGF‐β isoforms suppressed HCV propagation through interrupting several different stages in the whole HCV life cycle, including virus entry and intracellular replication, in TGF‐β/SMAD signalling pathway–dependent and TGF‐β/SMAD signalling pathway–independent manners. TGF‐β isoforms showed additional anti‐HCV activities when combined with each other. However, the elevated TGF‐β1 and TGF‐β2, not TGF‐β3, could also induce liver fibrosis with a high expression of type I collagen alpha‐1 and α‐smooth muscle actin in LX‐2 cells. Our results showed a new insight into TGF‐β isoforms in the HCV‐related liver disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Li Zou
- CAMS Key Laboratory of Antiviral Drug Research, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jian-Rui Li
- CAMS Key Laboratory of Antiviral Drug Research, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Biotechnology of Antibiotics, The National Health and Family Planning Commission (NHFPC), Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Hu Li
- CAMS Key Laboratory of Antiviral Drug Research, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Biotechnology of Antibiotics, The National Health and Family Planning Commission (NHFPC), Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jia-Li Tan
- CAMS Key Laboratory of Antiviral Drug Research, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Mei-Xi Wang
- CAMS Key Laboratory of Antiviral Drug Research, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Nan-Nan Liu
- CAMS Key Laboratory of Antiviral Drug Research, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Rong-Mei Gao
- CAMS Key Laboratory of Antiviral Drug Research, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Hai-Yan Yan
- CAMS Key Laboratory of Antiviral Drug Research, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Biotechnology of Antibiotics, The National Health and Family Planning Commission (NHFPC), Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xue-Kai Wang
- CAMS Key Laboratory of Antiviral Drug Research, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Biao Dong
- CAMS Key Laboratory of Antiviral Drug Research, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Antimicrobial Agents, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yu-Huan Li
- CAMS Key Laboratory of Antiviral Drug Research, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Biotechnology of Antibiotics, The National Health and Family Planning Commission (NHFPC), Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Antimicrobial Agents, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Zong-Gen Peng
- CAMS Key Laboratory of Antiviral Drug Research, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Biotechnology of Antibiotics, The National Health and Family Planning Commission (NHFPC), Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Antimicrobial Agents, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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7
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Serum transforming growth factor β and leucine-rich α-2-glycoprotein 1 as potential biomarkers for diagnosis of uterine leiomyomas. J Gynecol Obstet Hum Reprod 2020; 50:102037. [PMID: 33307240 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogoh.2020.102037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2020] [Revised: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) and leucine-rich α-2-glycoprotein 1 (LRG1) play significant roles in the pathogenicity of uterine leiomyomas (ULMs). The current study aimed to assess the diagnostic values of serum TGF-β and LRG1 in terms of the presence and severity of ULMs. METHODS Premenopausal women with ULMs (n=44) together with age-adjusted ULM-free individuals (n=41) were incorporated into the study. ULMs were detected and evaluated using transvaginal ultrasonography. Serum levels of TGF-β and LRG1 were quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS Mean concentrations of serum TGF-β and LRG1 were significantly higher in the group of patients with ULMs compared to the control group (p<0.05). The volume of the largest leiomyoma was positively correlated with the levels of TGF-β (r = 0.414, p= 0.005) and LRG1 (r = 0.341, p= 0.023). The receiver-operating characteristics analysis demonstrated moderate and robust values of area under the curve for TGF-β (0.755) and LRG1 (0.90), respectively. CONCLUSION Increases in serum levels of TGF-β and LRG1 is associated with the incidence and severity of ULMs. LRG1 in particular but also TGF-β may be able to serve as reliable biomarkers for the diagnosis and monitoring of ULMs.
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Ciebiera M, Vitale SG, Ferrero S, Vilos GA, Barra F, Caruso S, Laganà AS, Sierant A, Cianci A, Jakiel G. Vilaprisan, a New Selective Progesterone Receptor Modulator in Uterine Fibroid Pharmacotherapy-Will it Really be a Breakthrough? Curr Pharm Des 2020; 26:300-309. [PMID: 31985366 DOI: 10.2174/1381612826666200127092208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vilaprisan (VPR) is a new orally available selective progesterone receptor modulator (SPRM), with anti-proliferative activity against uterine fibroids (UFs). It definitively causes suppression of ovulation and inhibition of proliferation of endometrial, myometrial and UF cells. PURPOSE This review aims to summarize current knowledge on VPR from all studies, including clinical trials, conducted to date and to contextualize the potential role of VPR in future medical regimens for the treatment of UFs. METHODS We performed a literature search in PubMed US National Library of Medicine and Google Scholar databases. Both databases were extensively searched for all original and review articles/book chapters as well as congress abstracts published in English until July 2019. The use of VPR for UF therapy was identified by using the keywords: "uterine fibroids" and "vilaprisan". RESULTS In phase I and II clinical trials, VPR was shown to be effective in ameliorating UF-related clinical symptoms, especially abnormal or excessive uterine bleeding and in shrinking UFs. The tolerability of VPR is roughly similar to that of ulipristal acetate (UPA) and it tends to be more favorable than that of GnRH-agonists. CONCLUSION Presently, all trials examining the utility of VPR for the treatment of UF are halted; likely, due to the recently reported cases of hepato-toxicity with UPA, in addition to non reassuring toxicology results from preclinical long-term testing on rodents, carried out in parallel with late stage testing on humans. An accurate summary of robust data related to the safety of VPR is urgently needed to draw definitive conclusions on the future clinical development of this drug for UF therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Ciebiera
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Salvatore G Vitale
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Simone Ferrero
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - George A Vilos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Fabio Barra
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Salvatore Caruso
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Antonio S Laganà
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, "Filippo Del Ponte" Hospital, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Antoni Sierant
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Antonio Cianci
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Grzegorz Jakiel
- First Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
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9
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Islam MS, Afrin S, Jones SI, Segars J. Selective Progesterone Receptor Modulators-Mechanisms and Therapeutic Utility. Endocr Rev 2020; 41:bnaa012. [PMID: 32365199 PMCID: PMC8659360 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnaa012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2019] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Selective progesterone receptor modulators (SPRMs) are a new class of compounds developed to target the progesterone receptor (PR) with a mix of agonist and antagonist properties. These compounds have been introduced for the treatment of several gynecological conditions based on the critical role of progesterone in reproduction and reproductive tissues. In patients with uterine fibroids, mifepristone and ulipristal acetate have consistently demonstrated efficacy, and vilaprisan is currently under investigation, while studies of asoprisnil and telapristone were halted for safety concerns. Mifepristone demonstrated utility for the management of endometriosis, while data are limited regarding the efficacy of asoprisnil, ulipristal acetate, telapristone, and vilaprisan for this condition. Currently, none of the SPRMs have shown therapeutic success in treating endometrial cancer. Multiple SPRMs have been assessed for efficacy in treating PR-positive recurrent breast cancer, with in vivo studies suggesting a benefit of mifepristone, and multiple in vitro models suggesting the efficacy of ulipristal acetate and telapristone. Mifepristone, ulipristal acetate, vilaprisan, and asoprisnil effectively treated heavy menstrual bleeding (HBM) in patients with uterine fibroids, but limited data exist regarding the efficacy of SPRMs for HMB outside this context. A notable class effect of SPRMs are benign, PR modulator-associated endometrial changes (PAECs) due to the actions of the compounds on the endometrium. Both mifepristone and ulipristal acetate are effective for emergency contraception, and mifepristone was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2012 for the treatment of Cushing's syndrome due to its additional antiglucocorticoid effect. Based on current evidence, SPRMs show considerable promise for treatment of several gynecologic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Soriful Islam
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Reproductive Sciences & Women’s Health Research, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Sadia Afrin
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Reproductive Sciences & Women’s Health Research, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Sara Isabel Jones
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Reproductive Sciences & Women’s Health Research, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - James Segars
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Reproductive Sciences & Women’s Health Research, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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Chuang TD, Khorram O. Cross-talk between miR-29c and transforming growth factor-β3 is mediated by an epigenetic mechanism in leiomyoma. Fertil Steril 2020; 112:1180-1189. [PMID: 31843095 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2019.07.1324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Revised: 07/23/2019] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the expression of miR-29c and its target gene transforming growth factor-β3 (TGF-β3) in leiomyoma and the mechanisms of their reciprocal regulation. DESIGN Experimental study. SETTING Academic research laboratory. PATIENT(S) Women undergoing hysterectomy for leiomyoma. INTERVENTION(S) Overexpression and underexpression of miR-29c; blockade of DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The miR-29c and its target gene TGF-β3 in leiomyoma and the effects of TGF-β3 and blockade of DNMT1 on miR-29c expression. RESULT(S) Leiomyoma expressed significantly lower levels of miR-29c, but higher expression of TGF-β3 compared with matched myometrium. The expression of TGF-β3 and miR-29c were independent of race/ethnicity. Using 3' untranslated region luciferase reporter assay we confirmed that TGF-β3 is a direct target of miR-29c in leiomyoma smooth muscle cells (LSMCs). Gain-of-function of miR-29c in LSMCs inhibited the expression of TGF-β3 at protein and messenger RNA levels, whereas loss-of-function of miR-29c had the opposite effect. Treatment of LSMCs with TGF-β3 inhibited the expression of miR-29c, whereas it stimulated DNMT1 expression. Knockdown of DNMT1 through transfection with small interfering RNA significantly decreased the expression of TGF-β3, and induced miR-29c expression. Knockdown of DNMT1 also attenuated the inhibitory effect of TGF-β3 on miR-29c expression. Furthermore, we demonstrated that TGF-β3 increased the methylation level of miR-29c promoter in LSMCs. CONCLUSION(S) There is an inverse relationship in the expression of TGF-β3 and miR-29c in leiomyoma. The TGF-β3 is a direct target of miR-29c and inhibits the expression of miR-29c through an epigenetic mechanism. The cross-talk between miR-29c and TGF-β3 provides a feed forward mechanism of fibrosis in leiomyoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsai-Der Chuang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Harbor-University of California Los Angeles Medical Center and Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute, Torrance, California
| | - Omid Khorram
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Harbor-University of California Los Angeles Medical Center and Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute, Torrance, California.
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Ciebiera M, Jakiel G, Nowicka G, Laganà AS, Ghezzi F, Łoziński T, Wojtyła C, Włodarczyk M. The effect of ulipristal acetate on tumor necrosis factor α, insulin-like growth factor 1, and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 serum levels in patients with symptomatic uterine fibroids. Arch Med Sci 2020; 20:751-761. [PMID: 39050181 PMCID: PMC11264157 DOI: 10.5114/aoms.2020.94296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/02/2020] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Uterine fibroids (UFs) are benign tumors of the female reproductive system originating from the smooth muscle of the uterus. Currently, progesterone is known to play a key role in the differentiation of the myometrial tissue to form UFs and their abnormal growth. The mechanism of action of progesterone in UF tumorigenesis involves its effect on increasing the concentrations and dysregulation of selected growth factors. Material and methods A retrospective cohort study was performed to evaluate and compare tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) serum concentrations in patients with UFs without prior hormonal treatment, patients with UFs treated with a 3-month standard ulipristal acetate (UPA - a type of selective progesterone receptor modulator) scheme (5 mg/day) and in control patients without UFs. A total of 120 patients were divided into 3 groups (controls, UFs with UPA treatment, UFs without UPA treatment). Results There were no significant differences in TNF-α serum concentrations between patients with UFs who underwent UPA treatment and patients who did not. Serum concentrations of IGF-1 and PAI-1 did not show significant intergroup differences. Conclusions No significant differences were found between TNF-α concentrations in the serum of patients with UFs treated with UPA, and patients without UPA treatment. In addition, our data analysis did not show significant differences in the concentrations of IGF-1 and PAI-1 between patients with UFs and the control group. Further studies on the dependence of specific symptoms on selected growth factors are mandatory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michał Ciebiera
- II Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Jakiel
- I Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Grażyna Nowicka
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacogenomics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Poland
| | - Antonio Simone Laganà
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Filippo Del Ponte” Hospital, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Fabio Ghezzi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Filippo Del Ponte” Hospital, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | | | - Cezary Wojtyła
- European Observatory of Health Inequalities, State University of Applied Sciences, Kalisz, Poland
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Obstetrics, The Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marta Włodarczyk
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacogenomics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Poland
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Römer T. Ulipristalacetat – aktueller Stellenwert in der Myombehandlung. GYNAKOLOGISCHE ENDOKRINOLOGIE 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s10304-019-00288-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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13
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Ciebiera M, Męczekalski B, Łukaszuk K, Jakiel G. Potential synergism between ulipristal acetate and vitamin D3 in uterine fibroid pharmacotherapy - 2 case studies. Gynecol Endocrinol 2019; 35:473-477. [PMID: 30632825 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2018.1550062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This is a preliminary report of the first cases of successful simultaneous use of ulipristal acetate (UPA) and vitamin D3 in uterine fibroid (UF) oral treatment in humans. We present two cases of 37- and 49-year-old females with clinically symptomatic UFs and vitamin D deficiency. Both patients were treated with a standard 3 months of UPA scheme (5 mg daily) with the additional use of vitamin D3 (7000 IU daily orally). In the 37-year-old female all the symptoms (pain, pressure, frequent urination) decreased, total tumor volume after the treatment changed by 47.8%. In the 49-year-old female most symptoms perished, total tumor volume was reduced by 63.3%. UPA and vitamin D share synergistic anti-fibroid properties. Further studies are necessary to show the exact effect of UPA and vitamin D as co-drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michał Ciebiera
- a Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , The Center of Postgraduate Medical Education , Warsaw , Poland
| | - Błażej Męczekalski
- b Department of Gynecological Endocrinology , Poznan University of Medical Sciences , Poznań , Poland
| | - Krzysztof Łukaszuk
- c Department of Obstetrics and Gynecological Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences , Medical University of Gdańsk , Gdańsk , Poland
- d INVICTA Fertility and Reproductive Center , Gdańsk , Poland
| | - Grzegorz Jakiel
- e First Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , The Center of Postgraduate Medical Education , Warsaw , Poland
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Lewis TD, Malik M, Britten J, Parikh T, Cox J, Catherino WH. Ulipristal acetate decreases active TGF-β3 and its canonical signaling in uterine leiomyoma via two novel mechanisms. Fertil Steril 2019; 111:806-815.e1. [PMID: 30871768 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2018.12.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2018] [Revised: 12/11/2018] [Accepted: 12/28/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To characterize the effect of ulipristal acetate (UPA) treatment on transforming growth factor (TGF) canonical and noncanonical signaling pathways in uterine leiomyoma tissue and cells. UPA decreased extracellular matrix in surgical specimens; we characterize the mechanism in this study. DESIGN Laboratory study. SETTING University. INTERVENTION(S) Exposure of leiomyoma cell lines to UPA. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) RNAseq was performed on matched myometrium and leiomyoma surgical specimens of placebo- and UPA-treated patients. Changes in gene expression and protein were measured using quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western immunoblot analysis, respectively. RESULT(S) In surgical specimen, mRNA for TGF-β3 was elevated 3.75-fold and TGFR2 was decreased 0.50-fold in placebo leiomyomas compared with myometrium. Analysis of leiomyomas from UPA-treated women by western blot revealed significant reductions of active TGF-β3 (0.64 ± 0.12-fold), p-TGFR2 (0.56 ± 0.23-fold), pSmad 2 (0.54 ± 0.04-fold), and pSmad 3 (0.65 ± 0.09-fold) compared with untreated leiomyomas. UPA treatment demonstrated statistically significant reduction in collagen 1, fibronectin, and versican proteins. Notably, there was a statistically significant increase of the extracellular matrix protein fibrillin in leiomyoma treated with UPA (1.48 ± 0.41-fold). Data from in vitro assays with physiologic concentrations of UPA supported the in vivo findings. CONCLUSION(S) TGF-β pathway is highly up-regulated in leiomyoma and is directly responsible for development of the fibrotic phenotype. UPA attenuates this pathway by reducing TGF-β3 message and protein expression, resulting in a reduction in TGF-β canonical signaling. In addition, UPA significantly increased fibrillin protein expression, which can serve to bind inactive TGF-β complexes. Therefore, UPA inhibits leiomyoma fibrosis by decreasing active TGF-β3 and diminishing signaling through the canonical pathway. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT00290251.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terrence D Lewis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland; Program in Reproductive Endocrinology and Gynecology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Minnie Malik
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Joy Britten
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Toral Parikh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland; Program in Reproductive Endocrinology and Gynecology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Jeris Cox
- Fort Belvoir Community Hospital, Fort Belvoir, Virginia
| | - William H Catherino
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland; Program in Reproductive Endocrinology and Gynecology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland.
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15
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Britten JL, Malik M, Lewis TD, Catherino WH. Ulipristal Acetate Mediates Decreased Proteoglycan Expression Through Regulation of Nuclear Factor of Activated T-Cells (NFAT5). Reprod Sci 2018; 26:184-197. [PMID: 30567472 DOI: 10.1177/1933719118816836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Nuclear factor of activated T-cells (NFAT5) is a tissue specific, osmoadaptive transcription factor essential for the control of hydration homeostasis in mammalian cells. Nuclear factor of activated T-cells regulates osmolyte transporters aldo-keto reductase family 1 member B1 (AKR1B1) and solute carrier family 5 member 3 (SLC5A3) to maintain fluid equilibrium in cells. The osmotic potential of the extracellular matrix of leiomyomas is attributed to the role of proteoglycans. In leiomyoma cells, NFAT5 is overexpressed compared to myometrial cells. The selective progesterone receptor modulator, ulipristal acetate, has been reported to decrease the size of leiomyomas in clinical trials. When treated with ulipristal acetate, both patient leiomyoma tissue and leiomyoma cells grown in 3-dimensional cultures show a decrease in the expression of NFAT5 protein, solute transporters AKR1B1 and SLC5A3, and results in an associated decline in the expression of proteoglycans, versican, aggrecan, and brevican. In summary, ulipristal acetate induces changes in leiomyoma cell osmoregulation which result in a decrease in proteoglycan expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joy L Britten
- 1 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Minnie Malik
- 1 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Terrence D Lewis
- 1 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA.,2 Program in Reproductive Endocrinology and Gynecology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - William H Catherino
- 1 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA.,2 Program in Reproductive Endocrinology and Gynecology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
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Ciebiera M, Włodarczyk M, Zgliczyńska M, Łukaszuk K, Męczekalski B, Kobierzycki C, Łoziński T, Jakiel G. The Role of Tumor Necrosis Factor α in the Biology of Uterine Fibroids and the Related Symptoms. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:E3869. [PMID: 30518097 PMCID: PMC6321234 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19123869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2018] [Revised: 11/27/2018] [Accepted: 11/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine fibroids (UFs) are the most common benign tumors of the female genital tract. The incidence of UFs has been estimated at 25⁻80% depending on selected population. The pathophysiology of UFs remains poorly understood. The transformation of smooth muscle cells of the uterus into abnormal, immortal cells, capable of clonal division, is the main component of all pathways leading to UF tumor formation and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) is believed to be one of the key factors in this field. TNF-α is a cell signaling protein involved in systemic inflammation and is one of the cytokines responsible for the acute phase reaction. This publication presents current data about the role of tumor necrosis factor α in the biology of UFs and the related symptoms. TNF-α is an extremely important cytokine associated with the biology of UFs, UF-related symptoms and complaints. Its concentration has been proven to be elevated in women with clinically symptomatic UFs. The presented data suggest the presence of an "inflammation-like" state in women with UFs where TNF-α is a potent inflammation inducer. The origin of numerous symptoms reported by women with UFs can be traced back to the TNF-α influence. Nevertheless, our knowledge on this subject remains limited and TNF-α dependent pathways in UF pathophysiology should be investigated further.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michał Ciebiera
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, 01-809 Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Marta Włodarczyk
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Chemistry, Department of Pharmacogenomics, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Magdalena Zgliczyńska
- Students' Scientific Association at the I Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-015 Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Krzysztof Łukaszuk
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecological Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Gdansk, 80-210 Gdansk, Poland.
- INVICTA Fertility and Reproductive Center, 80-172 Gdansk, Poland.
| | - Błażej Męczekalski
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-513 Poznan, Poland.
| | - Christopher Kobierzycki
- Division of Histology and Embryology, Department of Human Morphology and Embryology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-368 Wroclaw, Poland.
| | - Tomasz Łoziński
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Pro-Familia Hospital, 35-001 Rzeszów, Poland.
| | - Grzegorz Jakiel
- First Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, 01-004 Warsaw, Poland.
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Ciebiera M, Włodarczyk M, Ciebiera M, Zaręba K, Łukaszuk K, Jakiel G. Vitamin D and Uterine Fibroids-Review of the Literature and Novel Concepts. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:E2051. [PMID: 30011902 PMCID: PMC6073230 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19072051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2018] [Revised: 07/06/2018] [Accepted: 07/12/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
This article provides a detailed review of current knowledge on the role of vitamin D and its receptor in the biology and management of uterine fibroids (UFs). Authors present ideas for future steps in this area. A literature search was conducted in PubMed using the following key words: "uterine fibroid" and "vitamin D". The results of the available studies, published in English from January 2002 up to April 2018, have been discussed. Vitamin D is a group of steroid compounds with a powerful impact on many parts of the human body. This vitamin is believed to regulate cell proliferation and differentiation, inhibit angiogenesis, and stimulate apoptosis. Nowadays, hypovitaminosis D is believed to be a major risk factor in the development of UFs. In many studies vitamin D appears to be a powerful factor against UFs, resulting in inhibition of tumor cell division and a significant reduction in its size, however, the exact role of this compound and its receptor in the pathophysiology of UFs is not fully understood. According to available studies, vitamin D and its analogs seem to be promising, effective, and low-cost compounds in the management of UFs and their clinical symptoms, and the anti-tumor activities of vitamin D play an important role in UF biology. The synergy between vitamin D and selected anti-UF drugs is a very interesting issue which requires further research. Further studies about the biological effect of vitamin D on UF biology are essential. Vitamin D preparations (alone or as a co-drugs) could become new tools in the fight with UFs, with the additional beneficial pleiotropic effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michał Ciebiera
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, 00-416 Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Marta Włodarczyk
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacogenomics, Faculty of Pharmacy with Division of Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland.
- Center for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Magdalena Ciebiera
- Students' Scientific Association at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-015 Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Kornelia Zaręba
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, 00-416 Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Krzysztof Łukaszuk
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecological Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Gdansk, 80-210 Gdansk, Poland.
- INVICTA Fertility and Reproductive Center, 80-172 Gdansk, Poland.
| | - Grzegorz Jakiel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, 00-416 Warsaw, Poland.
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