Evaluation of Apigenin-Loaded Niosomes for the Prevention of Uterine Leiomyoma: An In Vivo Study

Abstract

Uterine leiomyoma is the most common benign gynecological tumor, characterized by hormone-dependent smooth muscle proliferation and metabolic dysregulation. This study evaluated the preventive potential of apigenin-loaded niosomes against experimentally induced uterine leiomyoma in female Sprague Dawley rats. Methods: Adult female Sprague Dawley rats were divided into normal control, negative control, and apigenin niosome-treated groups (low and high dose). Uterine leiomyoma was experimentally induced using a standard protocol. Body weight was monitored throughout the study, while uterine coefficient was calculated as the ratio of uterine weight to body weight. Serum estrogen, progesterone, and lipid profile were determined using standard biochemical and immunoassay methods. Gross uterine morphology and histopathological changes were evaluated to assess disease progression and treatment efficacy. Results: Leiomyoma induction significantly increased uterine coefficient and produced marked uterine enlargement, hormonal imbalance, dyslipidemia, and histopathological alterations, including endometrial hyperplasia, glandular proliferation, and disorganized smooth muscle architecture. Treatment with apigenin niosomes attenuated disease-associated weight gain and significantly reduced the uterine coefficient, with the high-dose group demonstrating greater protection. High-dose treatment normalized circulating estrogen and progesterone levels, improved serum lipid profile by reducing total cholesterol, LDL, VLDL, and triglycerides, and restored uterine morphology toward normal. Histopathological examination confirmed dose-dependent protection, with high-dose apigenin niosomes markedly reducing endometrial thickening and preserving myometrial architecture. Conclusion: Apigenin-loaded niosomes demonstrated significant preventive efficacy against experimental uterine leiomyoma through modulation of hormonal and metabolic disturbances and preservation of uterine histoarchitecture. These findings support their potential as a promising nanotherapeutic strategy for the prevention of uterine fibroids.