Adenovirus-mediated therapy for uterine fibroids

摘要

The present invention provides methods of treating and preventing uterine fibroids that is non-surgical, using a modified estrogen receptor gene delivered via an adenoviral vector. The modified estrogen receptor induced apoptosis in vitro and decreased tumor growth in vivo. The invention provides a major improvement above that of current available procedures for women having uterine fibroids, or in preventing fibroids in women at risk of having fibroids. The present invention further provides a safe means of treating fibroids and preserving fertility in young women, or maintaining pregnancy in pregnant women having fibroids.