Uterine fibroids are characterized by an impaired antioxidant cellular system: potential role of hypoxia in the pathophysiology of uterine fibroids

Purpose Fibroids are the most common smooth muscle overgrowth in women. This study determined the expression and the effect of hypoxia on two potent antioxidant enzymes, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) on human fibroid cells. Methods Immortalized human leiomyoma (fibroid) and myometrial cells were subjected to hypoxia (2 % O 2 , 24 h). Total RNA and cell homogenate were obtained from control and treated cells; CAT and SOD mRNA and activity levels were determined by real-time RT-PCR and ELISA, respectively. Results Fibroid cells have significantly lower antioxidant enzymes, SOD and CAT mRNA and activity levels than normal myometrial cells ( p