Progesterone receptor modulators induce apoptosis in mammary tumors and uterine leiomyomas

Abstract

Selective progesterone receptor modulators (SPRMs) have been extensively studied for potential efficacy in prevention and treatment of breast and other hormone dependent conditions. It has been suggested that SPRMs may increase the efficacy of tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors in breast cancers with acquired resistance to these agents. SPRMs have also shown inhibitory effect on human uterine fibroids and endometriosis. Most in vitro and in vivo studies have shown that SPRMs preferentially suppress cell proliferation but may also induce apoptosis. In this review we summarize the effects of SPRMs on apoptosis in mammary and breast tumor cells as well as on uterine fibroids and uterine cells.