Review on the USE of Nanotechnology in the Treatment of Uterine Fibroid Using Phytochemicals

Uterine fibroids are the most prevalent gynecological disorder among reproductive-age women, with African American women experiencing the condition more frequently and with more severe symptoms than white women. Up to 70% of premenopausal women may develop fibroids by the age of 50, with symptoms that include abnormal uterine bleeding, prolonged and painful menstruation, pelvic pain, urinary problems, and, in some cases, infertility. The financial burden of managing uterine fibroids is substantial, and current pharmacological treatments are associated with hepatotoxicity and reduced bone density, while surgery remains the primary definitive treatment option. Given the growing interest in dietary phytochemicals and nanomedicine for the management of gynecological disease, this review examines the mechanisms of action of nanomedicine-based approaches with demonstrated efficacy against uterine fibroids. In various experimental models, natural compounds have demonstrated the ability to modulate key processes involved in fibroid initiation and growth, including cell proliferation, angiogenesis, fibrosis, and inflammation. Nanoparticles loaded with 2-methoxyestradiol and simvastatin have been shown to inhibit fibroid tumour growth in vivo in mouse models, suggesting considerable therapeutic promise. Nanoparticles have also been investigated for delivering magnetic hyperthermia to endometriotic tissue and show potential for hormone delivery, including transdermal hormone replacement therapy in postmenopausal women. This review summarizes current research findings on nanoparticle, and nanotherapeutic-based treatments for uterine fibroids.