MiR-17-5p regulates proliferation and apoptosis of uterine fibroids via targeting ESR1

The treatment of uterine fibroids and the development of new drugs depend on adeeper understanding of the developmental mechanisms of uterine fibroids. Here, the role of ESR1 and miR-17 on the uterine fibroids cell proliferation and apoptosis and their relationship were investigated in USMCs. Our results showed that ESR1 increased the proliferation of USMCs and inhibited their apoptosis. In addition, ESR1 could directly bind the promoter regionof TP53 and inhibit its expression. MiR-17 increased the apoptosis of USMCs and inhibited their proliferation via decreasing the level of ESR1 by targeting its 3’UTR. Our research provides a new understanding of the development of uterine fibroids and provides a theoretical basis for the treatment of uterine fibroids.