Tumor necrosis factor in uterine leiomyomas at various stages of tumor growth

Abstract

Summary Objectives: The aim of the study was to evaluate the expression of tumor necrosis factors -α and β (TNF), their receptor and content in human uterine leiomyomas at various stages of tumor growth. Material and Methods: Studies were performed on human myometrium and uterine leiomyomas of various weights (small: less than 10g and large: more than 100g). Presence of both growth factors and their receptor was detected by Western Immunoblotting technique. The content of TNF-α was evaluated by immunoenzymatic method (ELISA). Results: Changes in the expression of tumor necrosis factors and their receptor and difference in content of TNF-α during the tumor growth were found. Conclusions: Myometrium conversion into leiomyoma and an increase in its mass is accompanied by changes in the expression and contents TNF and TNF RI.