Researchers at Northwestern University in the United States have identified that about 400 genes may play a role in the development of uterine fibroids. The findings were published in the scientific journal Nature Communications.
Uterine fibroids, also known as myomas, are noncancerous tumors arising from the muscular wall of the uterus, the myometrium. Fibroids are widespread, with statistics indicating that up to 70 percent of women in their reproductive years may develop them at some point. Many fibroids remain asymptomatic, yet some can lead to heavy menstrual bleeding, anemia, or even complications during pregnancy and miscarriage.
The study in question is a comprehensive meta-analysis that pooled data from more than 20,000 fibroid cases. In this large synthesis, researchers identified 24 new risk loci—specific regions in the human genome where genetic variants appear to increase fibroid risk.
To deepen the analysis, the team integrated these genome-wide signals with DNA sequencing data from fibroid patients who participated in the study. The combined approach suggests that roughly 400 genes may contribute to the onset and progression of fibroids. Notably, about 120 genes were already believed to influence fibroid risk prior to this work, highlighting a substantial expansion of the known genetic landscape involved in this condition.
These results provide a clearer picture of the biological pathways that may drive fibroid development and point to potential targets for future diagnostic tools or therapies. Understanding the genetic architecture behind fibroids could improve risk assessment, enable earlier detection, and support more personalized management strategies for women affected by this condition in North America and beyond.
Overall, the research underscores the polygenic nature of fibroids, where many genetic factors interact with environmental and hormonal influences to shape an individual’s risk. This emphasizes the need for continued large-scale studies that can translate genetic insights into practical clinical benefits for patients in Canada, the United States, and other regions with similar demographic patterns.