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Progesterone and estrogen signaling in uterine fibroids: A tale of two interconnected pathways

Kavita1, Shikha Singh2, Neha Garg1

  • 1Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Ayurveda, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221005, India.

The Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
|May 8, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Uterine fibroids (UFs) are common tumors in women of reproductive age. This review explores estrogen and progesterone signaling pathways to improve understanding and management of UFs.

Area of Science:

  • Gynecology
  • Oncology
  • Endocrinology

Background:

  • Uterine fibroids (UFs) are common benign monoclonal tumors in women of reproductive age.
  • Their exact etiology is unknown, but they originate from a single uterine smooth muscle cell mutation.
  • UFs are hormone-dependent, typically shrinking after menopause.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the roles of estrogen and progesterone signaling pathways in UF development and progression.
  • To highlight the need for novel therapeutic strategies targeting multiple signaling pathways in UFs.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review focusing on hormonal signaling in uterine fibroids.
  • Analysis of current treatment limitations for UFs.

Main Results:

  • Estrogen and progesterone significantly influence UF growth and maintenance.
  • Current treatments offer symptomatic relief but have limitations and side effects.
  • Existing therapies do not resolve fibroids, necessitating new approaches.

Conclusions:

  • Understanding estrogen and progesterone signaling is crucial for elucidating UF pathology.
  • Targeting multiple signaling pathways holds promise for improved UF management.
  • Further research into novel therapeutic targets is warranted for effective UF treatment.
Keywords:
EstrogenEstrogen receptorsHormonesProgesteroneProgesterone receptorsUterine fibroid

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