Overview
The investigators are evaluating the role of senescent cells in uterine fibroids.
Description
Uterine fibroids are prevalent tumors of uterus characterized by excessive fibrotic tissues. Using new cutting-edge computational methods, the investigators have found that small groups of senescent cells in fibroids work in concert with immune cells to produce soluble factors in fibroid tissues to create a feed-forward loop leading to fibrosis. This project seeks to unravel key cell-cell communication networks involving senescent and immune cells in fibroids to develop new treatments for uterine fibroids.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- Subjects must be women above the age of ≥18 - ≤55 years.
- Women with suspected uterine fibroids.
- Subject must be or have been sexually active or have had a previous vaginal exam that used a speculum.
- Subject must be able to understand, read and speak English or Spanish and subsequently, be able to understand what she is consenting to in terms of procedures and use/disclosure of protected health information.
Exclusion Criteria:
- Unwilling to sign the consent form or complete questionnaire.
- Pregnancy.
- Cancer of the uterus