THE SIGNIFICANCE OF FOLATE METABOLISM IN UTERINE PATHOLOGY

Abstract

This thesis investigates the significance of folate metabolism in uterine pathology, focusing on the molecular, biochemical, and histopathological mechanisms that influence uterine tissue integrity and cellular proliferation. Folate, a water-soluble B-vitamin, is essential for one-carbon metabolism, DNA synthesis, repair, and methylation, as well as homocysteine regulation. Disruptions in folate-dependent pathways, including reduced methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) activity and folate deficiency, are associated with structural abnormalities such as endometrial hyperplasia, myometrial fibrosis, and altered vascularization. The study analyzes serum folate, vitamin B12, and homocysteine levels, enzymatic activity, DNA methylation patterns, and histopathological findings from uterine tissue samples. Significant correlations were observed between impaired folate metabolism and increased cellular proliferation, DNA hypomethylation, and uterine tissue remodeling. These findings highlight the potential for folate-targeted nutritional and therapeutic interventions in the prevention and management of uterine disorders and underscore the importance of further research in reproductive health.