Abstract
Uterine fibroids (UFs) are the most common benign tumors of the female genital tract. Their prevalence usually is estimated at 30–40%, but may reach up to 70–80% in predisposed groups of women. UFs may cause various clinical issues which might constitute the major reason of the overall deterioration of the quality of life. The mechanisms leading to UFs formation and growth still remain poorly understood. The transformation of smooth muscle cells of the uterus into abnormal, immortal cells, capable of clonal division, is thought to be a starting point of all pathways leading to UF formation. Micro-ribonucleic acids (miRNAs) are non-coding single-stranded RNAs about 22 nucleotides in length, that regulate gene expression. One of recent advances in this field is the comprehension of the role of miRNAs in tumorigenesis. Alterations in the levels of miRNAs are related to the formation and growth of several tumors which show a distinct miRNA signature. The aim of this review is to summarize the current data about the role of miRNAs in the pathophysiology of UFs. We also discuss future directions in the miRNA research area with an emphasis on novel diagnostic opportunities or patient-tailored therapies. In our opinion data concerning the regulation of miRNA and its gene targets in the UFs are still insufficient in comparison with gynecological malignancies. The potential translational use of miRNA and derived technologies in the clinical care is at the early phase and needs far more evidence. However, it is one of the main areas of interest for the future as the use of miRNAs in the diagnostics and treatment of UFs is a new and exciting opportunity.
Highlights
Abnormal Micro-ribonucleic acids (miRNAs) expression is associated with various female diseases including benign and malignant conditions, as well as fertility disorders [38]. All these findings suggest miRNA-dependent post-transcriptional regulation that appears to play an important role in female reproductive system [29,39,40]
The aim of this review is to summarize the current data about the role of miRNAs in the pathophysiology of Uterine fibroids (UFs)
In the current review we have tried to present the role of miRNAs and their different expression profiles in UFs biology
Summary
UFs may cause various clinical issues which might constitute the major reason of the overall deterioration of the quality of life (QoL). Women with UFs report different levels of QoL impairment, from no impact to complete discomfort [6], including sexual life, work performance and relations with partners and family [7]. Heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB), pelvic pressure and pain, dyspareunia, voiding and gastrointestinal problems are among the most frequent clinical symptoms in women with UFs [1,7]. Lesions that cause such symptoms may require a pharmacological or surgical intervention [8,9]. Nowadays we can observe switch to minimally invasive management which is becoming more common and is available in most health care systems [12]
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