S1P and activin A induce fibrotic phenotype in uterine fibroids: a promising target for antifibrotic therapy

Uterine fibroids are characterized by excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, such as collagens, fibronectin, and proteoglycans that characterize fibrosis. Collagens in fibroids contribute to fibroid stiffness and increased mechanical stress is translated into biochemical signals, which include the activation of integrin/Rho/mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. Growth factors, such as transforming growth factor- β (TGF-β), promote the fibrotic process through activation of Smad signaling.

Source: Fertility and Sterility - April 14, 2021 Category: Reproduction Medicine Authors: Md Soriful Islam, Most Mauluda Akhtar, James H. Segars Tags: Reflections Source Type: research