Extracellular Matrix and Angiogenesis in the Uterine Myometrium and Small Growing Leiomyomas in Women of Reproductive Age

This study investigates the role of extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation and angiogenesis in the growth of small uterine leiomyomas in women of reproductive age. Histological and immunohistochemical analyses were conducted on myometrial and leiomyoma tissues to evaluate ECM content, vascular remodeling, and hormone receptor expression. The results demonstrate that excessive ECM deposition and distorted vascular architecture are early features of leiomyoma development. The nodules show high progesterone receptor expression, altered apoptosis, and active smooth muscle proliferation from vascular zones, suggesting a coordinated interaction between ECM remodeling, angiogenesis, and hormonal regulation in leiomyoma pathogenesis.