Award
National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences 5R01ES034753-04
Environmental Pollutants and AHR pathway in Uterine Leiomyoma
Recipient
Northwestern University, Chicago, IL
Award Amount
$608,603.00
Ceiling
$608,603.00
Awarded
January 14, 2026
Identifier
5R01ES034753-04
This NIH-funded project investigates how genetic mutations and environmental pollutants activate the AHR pathway to promote uterine fibroid tumor growth, aiming to develop new therapeutic strategies.
Description
Uterine fibroids (leiomyomas) are tumors affecting up to 80% of women during their lifetime, posing major health issues. MED12 gene mutations are present in approximately 70% of leiomyomas, with endocrine disruptors as known risk factors. The project aims to investigate the role of the tryptophan-kynurenine-aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) pathway activated by genetic and environmental factors in tumorigenesis. The research will explore how increased Trp uptake and metabolism, Kyn production, and AHR pathway activation promote cell survival and tumor growth, especially in the context of mut-MED12 and exposure to pollutants like DEHP.