ADVANCES IN ENDOMETRIOSIS THERAPY: A REVIEW OF TARGETED THERAPIES, NANOPARTICLES AND STEM CELLS

Background: Endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent chronic inflammatory disease characterized by the presence of active endometrium outside the uterine cavity, most commonly in the pelvis. It affects an estimated 10-15% of women of childbearing age and is often associated with infertility, chronic pelvic pain, painful menstruation, and dyspareunia. Despite its high prevalence and significant impact on quality of life, the cause of endometriosis remains unclear, and the available treatment methods have many limitations. Aim: This article aims to review current developments in endometriosis treatment, with a focus on new therapeutic strategies involving targeted therapies, nanoparticles and stem cells. Methods: An analysis of the latest (2015-2025) literature from databases such as PubMed and Google Scholar was conducted to synthesize the available information. Search terms included combinations of “Endometriosis treatment,” “pathogenesis of Endometriosis,” “an update on Endometriosis,” “new therapeutics in Endometriosis,” and “immunotherapy in Endometriosis,” “stem cells and the Endometrium.” Results: In recent years, there has been significant progress in developing targeted therapies that modulate specific signaling pathways, hormone receptors, inflammatory cytokines, and angiogenesis within endometrial lesions. Concurrently, the importance of nanotechnology in medicine, particularly in the context of precision drug delivery using nanoparticles, is growing. Additionally, regenerative therapies using stem cells are receiving increasing attention. These therapies offer the potential to repair damaged tissues and modulate the immune response. Conclusion: Although preliminary studies are promising, the introduction of these innovative therapies requires further multi-center studies and evaluation of safety and cost. The integration of targeted therapies, nanotechnology and stem cells along with modern molecular diagnostics may soon revolutionize the treatment of endometriosis. This will pave the way for more effective and less invasive methods to improve patients' quality of life.