Molecular Genetic Basis and Prospects of Gene Therapy of Uterine Leiomyoma.

Uterine leiomyoma (UL) is one of the most highly prevalent gynecological diseases, which is a benign tumor that develops in the myometrium. Although the main reason for the development of UL is hormonal imbalance, a considerable role in its pathogenesis is played by genetic factors that affect the manifestation and severity of the disease. Currently, the surgical approach is the mainstay of UL management, which often leads to decreased fertility. Gene therapy based on the delivery of genetic constructs to myomatous nodes may be a new approach to the treatment of UL. The review summarizes the data on molecular genetic mechanisms involved in pathogenesis of UL and currently available gene therapy approaches to its treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]