A2 Refereed review article in a scientific journal
Progesterone signaling in uterine leiomyoma biology : Implications for potential targeted therapy
Authors: Szucio Weronika, Bernaczyk Piotr, Ponikwicka-Tyszko Donata, Milewska Gabriela, Pawelczyk Adam, Wołczyński Sławomir, Rahman Nafis A.
Publisher: Elsevier
Publication year: 2024
Journal: Advances in Medical Sciences
Journal name in source: Advances in Medical Sciences
Volume: 69
Issue: 1
First page : 21
Last page: 28
ISSN: 1896-1126
eISSN: 1898-4002
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.advms.2024.01.001
Web address : https://doi.org/10.1016/j.advms.2024.01.001
Self-archived copy’s web address: https://research.utu.fi/converis/portal/detail/Publication/386801172
Uterine leiomyomas (ULs) are the most common benign smooth muscle cell steroid-dependent tumors that occur in women of reproductive age. Progesterone (P4) is a major hormone that promotes the ULs development and growth. P4 action in ULs is mediated mainly by its nuclear progesterone receptors (PGRs), although rapid non-genomic responses have also been observed. Data on the membrane progesterone receptors (mPRs) regulated signaling pathways in ULs in the available literature is still very limited. One of the essential characteristics of ULs is the excessive production of extracellular matrix (ECM). P4 has been shown to stimulate ECM production and collagen synthesis in ULs. Recent research demonstrated that, despite their benign nature, ULs may present with abnormal vasculature. P4 has been shown to regulate angiogenesis in ULs through the upregulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and by controlling the secretion of permeability factors. This review summarizes the key findings regarding the role of PGRs and mPRs in ULs, especially highlighting the potential ECM and angiogenesis modulation by P4. An increased understanding of this mechanistic role of nuclear and specifically mPRs in the biology of P4-modulated ECM and angiogenesis in the growth of ULs could turn out to be fundamental for developing effective targeted therapies for ULs.
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