Beyond antioxidant activity, toward redox modulation: N-acetylcysteine (NAC) in endometriosis and uterine leiomyomas

Endometriosis and uterine leiomyomas are common chronic gynecologic diseases associated with immune dysregulation, inflammation, and aberrant cellular proliferation, processes that contribute to increased oxidative stress. Current management relies largely on surgical and hormonal interventions, highlighting the need for effective long-term nonhormonal therapeutic strategies. N-acetylcysteine (NAC), a glutathione precursor, exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may target key mechanisms underlying both conditions. NAC functions as both a direct reactive oxygen species scavenger and regulator of intracellular redox homeostasis through replenishment of glutathione stores. These findings suggest that NAC may represent a potential adjunctive therapy warranting further investigation and may influence disease-associated biological pathways. Future clinical and translational studies are needed to define its efficacy, optimal dosing, and role in redox-based management of endometriosis and uterine leiomyomas.