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Jawanda IK, Soni T, Kumari S, Prabha V. The evolving facets of vaginal microbiota transplantation: reinvigorating the unexplored frontier amid complex challenges. Arch Microbiol 2024; 206:306. [PMID: 38878076 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-024-04024-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
In an age of cutting-edge sequencing methods and worldwide endeavors such as The Human Microbiome Project and MetaHIT, the human microbiome stands as a complex and diverse community of microorganisms. A central theme in current scientific inquiry revolves around reinstating a balanced microbial composition, referred to as "eubiosis," as a targeted approach for treating vast array of diseases. Vaginal Microbiota Transplantation (VMT), inspired by the success of fecal microbiota transplantation, emerges as an innovative therapy addressing vaginal dysbacteriosis by transferring the complete microbiota from a healthy donor. Antibiotics, while effective, pose challenges with adverse effects, high recurrence rates, and potential harm to beneficial Lactobacillus strains. Continued antibiotic usage also sparks worries regarding the development of resistant strains. Probiotics, though showing promise, exhibit inconsistency in treating multifactorial diseases, and concerns linger about their suitability for diverse genetic backgrounds. Given the recurrent challenges associated with antibiotic and probiotic treatments, VMT emerges as an imperative alternative, offering a unique and promising avenue for efficiently and reliably managing vaginal dysbiosis among a majority of women. This review critically evaluates findings from both animal and human studies, offering nuanced insights into the efficacy and challenges of VMT. An extensive analysis of clinical trials, provides a current overview of ongoing and completed trials, shedding light on the evolving clinical landscape and therapeutic potential of VMT. Delving into the origins, mechanisms, and optimized protocols of VMT, the review underscores the imperative for sustained research efforts to advance this groundbreaking gynecological therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Thomson Soni
- Department of Microbiology, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
| | - Seema Kumari
- Department of Microbiology, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
| | - Vijay Prabha
- Department of Microbiology, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India.
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George SD, Van Gerwen OT, Dong C, Sousa LGV, Cerca N, Elnaggar JH, Taylor CM, Muzny CA. The Role of Prevotella Species in Female Genital Tract Infections. Pathogens 2024; 13:364. [PMID: 38787215 PMCID: PMC11123741 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13050364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Female genital tract infections (FGTIs) include vaginal infections (e.g., bacterial vaginosis [BV]), endometritis, pelvic inflammatory disease [PID], and chorioamnionitis [amniotic fluid infection]. They commonly occur in women of reproductive age and are strongly associated with multiple adverse health outcomes including increased risk of HIV/sexually transmitted infection acquisition and transmission, infertility, and adverse birth outcomes such as preterm birth. These FGTIs are characterized by a disruption of the cervicovaginal microbiota which largely affects host immunity through the loss of protective, lactic acid-producing Lactobacillus spp. and the overgrowth of facultative and strict anaerobic bacteria. Prevotella species (spp.), anaerobic Gram-negative rods, are implicated in the pathogenesis of multiple bacterial FGTIs. Specifically, P. bivia, P. amnii, and P. timonensis have unique virulence factors in this setting, including resistance to antibiotics commonly used in treatment. Additionally, evidence suggests that the presence of Prevotella spp. in untreated BV cases can lead to infections of the upper female genital tract by ascension into the uterus. This narrative review aims to explore the most common Prevotella spp. in FGTIs, highlight their important role in the pathogenesis of FGTIs, and propose future research in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheridan D. George
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA; (O.T.V.G.); (C.D.); (C.A.M.)
| | - Olivia T. Van Gerwen
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA; (O.T.V.G.); (C.D.); (C.A.M.)
| | - Chaoling Dong
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA; (O.T.V.G.); (C.D.); (C.A.M.)
| | - Lúcia G. V. Sousa
- Centre of Biological Engineering (CEB), Laboratory of Research in Biofilms Rosário Oliveira (LIBRO), Campus de Gualtar, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; (L.G.V.S.); (N.C.)
| | - Nuno Cerca
- Centre of Biological Engineering (CEB), Laboratory of Research in Biofilms Rosário Oliveira (LIBRO), Campus de Gualtar, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; (L.G.V.S.); (N.C.)
| | - Jacob H. Elnaggar
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Parasitology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA; (J.H.E.); (C.M.T.)
| | - Christopher M. Taylor
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Parasitology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA; (J.H.E.); (C.M.T.)
| | - Christina A. Muzny
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA; (O.T.V.G.); (C.D.); (C.A.M.)
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Grincevičienė Š, Vaitkienė D, Kanopienė D, Vansevičiūtė Petkevičienė R, Sukovas A, Celiešiūtė J, Ivanauskaitė Didžiokienė E, Čižauskas A, Laurinavičienė A, Stravinskienė D, Grincevičius J, Matulis D, Matulienė J. Aerobic vaginitis is associated with carbonic anhydrase IX in cervical intraepithelial neoplasia. Sci Rep 2024; 14:8789. [PMID: 38627429 PMCID: PMC11021548 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-57427-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to analyze the association between vaginal microbiota, carbonic anhydrase IX (CAIX) and histological findings of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN). The study included 132 females, among them 66 were diagnosed with high-grade intraepithelial lesion (CIN2, CIN3, and cancer), 14 with low-grade disease, and 52 assigned to the control group. An interview focused on the behavior risk factors, together with vaginal fluid pH measurement, wet mount microscopy, detection of Chlamydia trachomatis, and Trichomonas vaginalis were performed. After colposcopy, high-grade abnormalities were detected via direct biopsies and treated with conization procedure. Conuses were immuno-stained with CAIX antibody. The histological findings were CIN1 (n = 14), and CIN2+ (included CIN2 (n = 10), CIN3 (n = 49), and cancer (n = 7; squamous cell carcinomas)). Prevalence of bacterial vaginosis (BV) was similar between the groups. Moderate or severe aerobic vaginitis (msAV) was diagnosed more often among CIN2+ (53.0%) than CIN1 (21.4%). Moderate or strong immunostaining of CAIX (msCAIX) was not detected among CIN1 cases. Thus, msAV was prevalent in CAIX non-stained group (p = 0.049) among CIN2 patients. Co-location of msAV and msCAIX was found in CIN3. Regression model revealed that msAV associated with high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia independently from smoking and the number of partners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Švitrigailė Grincevičienė
- Department of Biothermodynamics and Drug Design, Institute of Biotechnology, Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University, Sauletekio Av. 7, 10257, Vilnius, Lithuania.
| | - Daiva Vaitkienė
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Eiveniu St. 2, 50161, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Daiva Kanopienė
- Consultative Polyclinic Department, National Cancer Institute, Santariskiu St. 1, 08406, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Rasa Vansevičiūtė Petkevičienė
- Consultative Polyclinic Department, National Cancer Institute, Santariskiu St. 1, 08406, Vilnius, Lithuania
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Vilnius University, M. K. Ciurlionio St. 21, 03101, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Artūras Sukovas
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Eiveniu St. 2, 50161, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Joana Celiešiūtė
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Eiveniu St. 2, 50161, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Ernesta Ivanauskaitė Didžiokienė
- National Center of Pathology, Affiliate of Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos, P. Baublio St. 5, 08406, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Arvydas Čižauskas
- Department of Pathological Anatomy, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Eiveniu St. 2, 50161, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Aida Laurinavičienė
- National Center of Pathology, Affiliate of Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos, P. Baublio St. 5, 08406, Vilnius, Lithuania
- Department of Pathology, Forensic Medicine and Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Science, Vilnius University, M. K. Ciurlionio St. 21, 03101, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Dovilė Stravinskienė
- Department of Immunology and Cell Biology, Institute of Biotechnology, Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University, Sauletekio Av. 7, 10257, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Jonas Grincevičius
- Faculty of Medicine, Pharmacy and Pharmacology Center, Institute of Biomedical Science, Vilnius University, M. K. Ciurlionio St. 21, 03101, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Daumantas Matulis
- Department of Biothermodynamics and Drug Design, Institute of Biotechnology, Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University, Sauletekio Av. 7, 10257, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Jurgita Matulienė
- Department of Biothermodynamics and Drug Design, Institute of Biotechnology, Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University, Sauletekio Av. 7, 10257, Vilnius, Lithuania
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Tosado-Rodríguez E, Alvarado-Vélez I, Romaguera J, Godoy-Vitorino F. Vaginal Microbiota and HPV in Latin America: A Narrative Review. Microorganisms 2024; 12:619. [PMID: 38543670 PMCID: PMC10974203 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12030619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024] Open
Abstract
With the expansion of human microbiome studies in the last 15 years, we have realized the immense implications of microbes in human health. The human holobiont is now accepted, given the commensal relationships with bacteria, fungi, parasites, viruses, and human cells. The cervicovaginal microbiota is a specific case within the human microbiome where diversity is lower to maintain a chemical barrier of protection against infections. This narrative review focuses on the vaginal microbiome. It summarizes key findings on how native bacteria protect women from disease or predispose them to damaging inflammatory processes with an emphasis on the role of HPV infections in Latin America, one of the world's regions with the highest cervical cancer prevalence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Tosado-Rodríguez
- Department of Microbiology and Medical Zoology, Medical Sciences Campus, University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine, San Juan 00935, Puerto Rico
| | - Ian Alvarado-Vélez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Sciences Campus, University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine, San Juan 00935, Puerto Rico
| | - Josefina Romaguera
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Sciences Campus, University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine, San Juan 00935, Puerto Rico
| | - Filipa Godoy-Vitorino
- Department of Microbiology and Medical Zoology, Medical Sciences Campus, University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine, San Juan 00935, Puerto Rico
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Wang R, Wang M, Zeng Q, Wang L, Zhang Q, Pu S, Ma X, Wang J, Pan Y. Correlation between microbial characteristics and reproductive status of the yak uterus based on macrogenomic analysis. BMC Vet Res 2024; 20:4. [PMID: 38172906 PMCID: PMC10763020 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-023-03845-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study aimed to investigate the microbial characteristics of yak uteri collected using intrauterine cotton swabs (CS) during different reproductive stages and the correlation of these microbial characteristics with reproductive status. METHODS We used a macrogenomic approach to analyze the functional aspects of different microorganisms in samples collected during the pre-estrus, estrus, late estrus, and diestrus stages. RESULTS The results revealed the presence of 1293 microbial genera and 3401 microbial species in the uteri of yaks at different reproductive stages. The dominant bacterial species varied across the different periods, with Micrococcus and Proteus being dominant during pre-estrus; Pseudomonas, Clostridium, Flavobacterium, Bacillus, and Staphylococcus during estrus; Acinetobacter, Bacillus and Proteus during late estrus; and Pseudomonas, Escherichia coli, and Proteus during diestrus. DISCUSSION The primary functions of these bacteria are enriched in various metabolic pathways, including carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism, intracellular transport and secretion, post-translational protein modification, and drug resistance. These findings suggest that the microbial diversity in the uterus of yaks plays a crucial role in reproductive regulation and can help prevent reproductive tract-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Meng Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
- Technology and Research Center of Gansu Province for Embryonic Engineering of Bovine and Sheep & Goat, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Qiaoying Zeng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Libin Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
- Technology and Research Center of Gansu Province for Embryonic Engineering of Bovine and Sheep & Goat, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
- Technology and Research Center of Gansu Province for Embryonic Engineering of Bovine and Sheep & Goat, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Sisi Pu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Xin Ma
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
- Technology and Research Center of Gansu Province for Embryonic Engineering of Bovine and Sheep & Goat, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Jinglei Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
- Technology and Research Center of Gansu Province for Embryonic Engineering of Bovine and Sheep & Goat, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Yangyang Pan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China.
- Technology and Research Center of Gansu Province for Embryonic Engineering of Bovine and Sheep & Goat, Lanzhou, Gansu, China.
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Abou Chacra L, Benatmane A, Iwaza R, Ly C, Alibar S, Armstrong N, Mediannikov O, Bretelle F, Fenollar F. Culturomics reveals a hidden world of vaginal microbiota with the isolation of 206 bacteria from a single vaginal sample. Arch Microbiol 2023; 206:20. [PMID: 38095693 PMCID: PMC10721685 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-023-03742-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
The composition of the vaginal microbiota is known to be influenced by various factors and to be associated with several disorders affecting women's health. Although metagenomics is currently a widely used method for studying the human microbiota, it has certain limitations, such as a lack of information on bacterial viability. It is therefore important to use culture-based methods such as culturomics. Here, we used 35 different culture conditions to comprehensively characterize the vaginal bacterial diversity of a single woman's flora. A total of 206 bacterial species, belonging to six phyla (for a little more than half to Firmicutes, followed mainly by Actinobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Proteobacteria) and 45 families, and 2 fungal species were cultivated. While several species of lactobacilli have been isolated, a wide variety of other bacteria were also separated, including 65 never reported before in vaginal flora, including a new bacterial species, Porphyromonas vaginalis sp. nov. Extensive culture-based methods are essential to establish a comprehensive, evidence-based repertoire of bacterial viability. If combined with molecular methods, they can provide a much more thorough understanding of the vaginal microbiota and fulfil the unknown part of metagenomic studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Abou Chacra
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, Marseille, France
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
| | - Amel Benatmane
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, Marseille, France
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
| | - Rim Iwaza
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, AP-HM, MEPHI, Marseille, France
| | - Claudia Ly
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, Marseille, France
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
| | | | | | - Oleg Mediannikov
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, AP-HM, MEPHI, Marseille, France
| | - Florence Bretelle
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, AP-HM, MEPHI, Marseille, France
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, AP-HM, Gynépole, La Conception, Marseille, France
| | - Florence Fenollar
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, Marseille, France.
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, AP-HM, MEPHI, Marseille, France.
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Zahra A, Menon R, Bento GFC, Selim J, Taylor BD, Vincent KL, Pyles RB, Richardson LS. Validation of vaginal microbiome proxies for in vitro experiments that biomimic Lactobacillus-dominant vaginal cultures. Am J Reprod Immunol 2023; 90:e13797. [PMID: 38009054 PMCID: PMC10691763 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 10/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The vaginal microbiome includes diverse microbiota dominated by Lactobacillus [L.] spp. that protect against infections, modulate inflammation, and regulate vaginal homeostasis. Because it is challenging to incorporate vaginal microbiota into in vitro models, including organ-on-a-chip systems, we assessed microbial metabolites as reliable proxies in addition to traditional vaginal epithelial cultures (VECs). Human immortalized VECs cultured on transwells with an air-liquid interface generated stratified cell layers colonized by transplanted healthy microbiomes (L. jensenii- or L. crispatus-dominant) or a community representing bacterial vaginosis (BV). After 48-h, a qPCR array confirmed the expected donor community profiles. Pooled apical and basal supernatants were subjected to metabolomic analysis (untargeted mass spectrometry) followed by ingenuity pathways analysis (IPA). To determine the bacterial metabolites' ability to recreate the vaginal microenvironment in vitro, pooled bacteria-free metabolites were added to traditional VEC cultures. Cell morphology, viability, and cytokine production were assessed. IPA analysis of metabolites from colonized samples contained fatty acids, nucleic acids, and sugar acids that were associated with signaling networks that contribute to secondary metabolism, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory functions indicative of a healthy vaginal microbiome compared to sterile VEC transwell metabolites. Pooled metabolites did not affect cell morphology or induce cell death (∼5.5%) of VEC cultures (n = 3) after 72-h. However, metabolites created an anti-inflammatory milieu by increasing IL-10 production (p = .06, T-test) and significantly suppressing pro-inflammatory IL-6 (p = .0001), IL-8 (p = .009), and TNFα (p = .0007) compared to naïve VEC cultures. BV VEC conditioned-medium did not affect cell morphology nor viability; however, it induced a pro-inflammatory environment by elevating levels of IL-6 (p = .023), IL-8 (p = .031), and TNFα (p = .021) when compared to L.-dominate microbiome-conditioned medium. VEC transwells provide a suitable ex vivo system to support the production of bacterial metabolites consistent with the vaginal milieu allowing subsequent in vitro studies with enhanced accuracy and utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abir Zahra
- School of Medicine, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Ramkumar Menon
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Giovana Fernanda Cosi Bento
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
- Department of Pathology, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Jessica Selim
- School of Medicine, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Brandie D. Taylor
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Kathleen L. Vincent
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Richard B. Pyles
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Lauren S. Richardson
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
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Bar O, Sudhof LS, Yockey LJ, Bergerat A, Moriel N, Andrews E, Ananthakrishnan AN, Xavier RJ, Yassour M, Mitchell CM. Comparison of vaginal microbiota between women with inflammatory bowel disease and healthy controls. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0284709. [PMID: 38019873 PMCID: PMC10686494 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0284709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The gut microbiota in patients with inflammatory bowel disease are perturbed in both composition and function. The vaginal microbiome and its role in the reproductive health of women with inflammatory bowel disease is less well described. OBJECTIVE We aim to compare the vaginal microbiota of women with inflammatory bowel disease to healthy controls. METHODS Women with inflammatory bowel disease enrolled in a longitudinal cohort study provided self-collected vaginal swabs. Healthy controls underwent provider-collected vaginal swabs at routine gynecologic exams. All participants completed surveys on health history, vulvovaginal symptoms and gastrointestinal symptoms, if applicable. Microbiota were characterized by sequencing the V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene. Associations between patient characteristics and microbial community composition were evaluated by PERMANOVA and Principal Components Analysis. Lactobacillus dominance of the microbial community was compared between groups using chi-square and Poisson regression. RESULTS The cohort included 54 women with inflammatory bowel disease (25 Ulcerative colitis, 25 Crohn's Disease) and 26 controls. A majority, 72 (90%) were White; 17 (31%) with inflammatory bowel disease and 7 (27%) controls were postmenopausal. The composition of the vaginal microbiota did not vary significantly by diagnosis or severity of inflammatory bowel disease but did vary by menopausal status (p = 0.042). There were no significant differences in Shannon Diversity Index between healthy controls and women with IBD in premenopausal participants. There was no difference in proportion of Lactobacillus dominance according to diagnosis in premenopausal participants. A subgroup of postmenopausal women with Ulcerative colitis showed a significant higher alpha diversity and a lack of Lactobacillus dominance in the vaginal microbiome. CONCLUSIONS Menopausal status had a larger impact on vaginal microbial communities than inflammatory bowel disease diagnosis or severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ofri Bar
- Vincent Center for Reproductive Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States of America
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Leanna S. Sudhof
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Laura J. Yockey
- Departments of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Agnes Bergerat
- Vincent Center for Reproductive Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Nadav Moriel
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Elizabeth Andrews
- Departments of Gastroenterology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Ashwin N. Ananthakrishnan
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
- Departments of Gastroenterology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Ramnik J. Xavier
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
- Departments of Molecular Biology and Center for Computational and Integrative Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States of America
- Broad Institute, Boston MA, United States of America
| | - Moran Yassour
- The Rachel and Selim Benin School of Computer Science and Engineering, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Caroline M. Mitchell
- Vincent Center for Reproductive Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States of America
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
- Departments of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States of America
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Wong PY, Yip C, Lemberg DA, Day AS, Leach ST. Evolution of a Pathogenic Microbiome. J Clin Med 2023; 12:7184. [PMID: 38002796 PMCID: PMC10672640 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12227184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The process of microbiome development arguably begins before birth. Vertical transmission of bacteria from the mother to the infant is a keystone event in microbiome development. Subsequent to birth, the developing microbiome is vulnerable to influence from a wide range of factors. Additionally, the microbiome can influence the health and development of the host infant. This intricate interaction of the gastrointestinal microbiome and the host has been described as both symbiotic and dysbiotic. Defining these terms, a symbiotic microbiome is where the microbiome and host provide mutual benefit to each other. A pathogenic microbiome, or more precisely a gastrointestinal microbiome associated with disease, is increasing described as dysbiotic. This review seeks to investigate the factors that contribute to evolving a disease-causing or 'dysbiotic' microbiome. This review covers the development of the gastrointestinal microbiome in infants, the interaction of the microbiome with the host, and its contribution to host immunity and investigates specific features of the gastrointestinal microbiome that are associated with disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pui Yin Wong
- Discipline of Paediatrics, School of Clinical Medicine, University of NSW, Sydney 2052, Australia; (P.Y.W.); (C.Y.); (A.S.D.)
| | - Carmen Yip
- Discipline of Paediatrics, School of Clinical Medicine, University of NSW, Sydney 2052, Australia; (P.Y.W.); (C.Y.); (A.S.D.)
| | - Daniel A. Lemberg
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sydney Children’s Hospital Randwick, Sydney 2031, Australia;
| | - Andrew S. Day
- Discipline of Paediatrics, School of Clinical Medicine, University of NSW, Sydney 2052, Australia; (P.Y.W.); (C.Y.); (A.S.D.)
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sydney Children’s Hospital Randwick, Sydney 2031, Australia;
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Otago, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand
| | - Steven T. Leach
- Discipline of Paediatrics, School of Clinical Medicine, University of NSW, Sydney 2052, Australia; (P.Y.W.); (C.Y.); (A.S.D.)
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Labossiere A, Ramsey M, Merritt J, Kreth J. Molecular commensalism-how to investigate underappreciated health-associated polymicrobial communities. mBio 2023; 14:e0134223. [PMID: 37754569 PMCID: PMC10653818 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01342-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The study of human commensal bacteria began with the first observation of prokaryotes >340 years ago. Since then, the study of human-associated microbes has been justifiably biased toward the study of infectious pathogens. However, the role of commensal microbes has in recent years begun to be understood with some appreciation of them as potential protectors of host health rather than bystanders. As our understanding of these valuable microbes grows, it highlights how much more remains to be learned about them and their roles in maintaining health. We note here that a thorough framework for the study of commensals, both in vivo and in vitro is overall lacking compared to well-developed methodologies for pathogens. The modification and application of methods for the study of pathogens can work well for the study of commensals but is not alone sufficient to properly characterize their relationships. This is because commensals live in homeostasis with the host and within complex communities. One difficulty is determining which commensals have a quantifiable impact on community structure and stability as well as host health, vs benign microbes that may indeed serve only as bystanders. Human microbiomes are composed of bacteria, archaea, fungi, and viruses. This review focuses particularly on oral bacteria, yet many of the principles of commensal impacts on host health observed in the mouth can translate well to other host sites. Here, we discuss the value of commensals, the shortcomings involved in model systems for their study, and some of the more notable impacts they have upon not only each other but host health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Labossiere
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, The University of Rhode Island, Kingston, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Matthew Ramsey
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, The University of Rhode Island, Kingston, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Justin Merritt
- Biomaterial and Biomedical Sciences, Oregon Health and Science University, School of Dentistry, Portland, Oregon, USA
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Jens Kreth
- Biomaterial and Biomedical Sciences, Oregon Health and Science University, School of Dentistry, Portland, Oregon, USA
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
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11
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Turner F, Drury J, Hapangama DK, Tempest N. Menstrual Tampons Are Reliable and Acceptable Tools to Self-Collect Vaginal Microbiome Samples. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14121. [PMID: 37762424 PMCID: PMC10531428 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241814121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Many women report embarrassment as the cause for their avoidance of routine gynaecological screening appointments. Methods of self-collection of bio samples would perhaps encourage women to participate in routine screening programs. The vaginal microbiome plays a key role in women's health and reproductive function. Microbial disturbances can result in the loss of lactobacillus dominance, also known as dysbiosis, associated with an increased risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections (STIs), pregnancy complications and infertility. Our primary aim was to determine if vaginal microbiome screening results are comparable between two methods for self-collected sample acquisition: tampons and lower vaginal swabs (LVSs). Secondary aims included the assessment of the effect of pre-analytic storage on the data (to streamline processing), the prevalence of dysbiosis and the acceptability of the tampons to the participants. Statistical analysis revealed no significant difference in the microbiome data, from tampons versus LVSs or fresh versus frozen samples. The prevalence of dysbiosis in this population of healthy volunteers was 42.9%. The questionnaire data revealed that 52.4% of volunteers use tampons every period, and the majority of volunteers rated the tampons as 5 on a 1-5 Likert scale regarding their perceived comfort using tampons. All (100%) of volunteers were happy to provide a tampon as a sample for testing. The findings from this study show that tampons and LVSs were comparable when analysing the vaginal microbiome, with potential superiority of the tampon with regard to patient acceptability. Self-collection of vaginal secretions for gynaecological screening using tampons warrants further research as this could change the screening landscape, ensuring wider participation and increasing efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florence Turner
- Centre for Women’s Health Research, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK; (F.T.); (J.D.); (D.K.H.)
| | - Josephine Drury
- Centre for Women’s Health Research, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK; (F.T.); (J.D.); (D.K.H.)
| | - Dharani K. Hapangama
- Centre for Women’s Health Research, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK; (F.T.); (J.D.); (D.K.H.)
- Liverpool Women’s NHS Foundation Trust, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK
| | - Nicola Tempest
- Centre for Women’s Health Research, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK; (F.T.); (J.D.); (D.K.H.)
- Liverpool Women’s NHS Foundation Trust, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK
- Hewitt Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Liverpool Women’s NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool L8 7SS, UK
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12
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Gamberini C, Juliana NCA, de Brouwer L, Vogelsang D, Al-Nasiry S, Morré SA, Ambrosino E. The association between adverse pregnancy outcomes and non-viral genital pathogens among women living in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2023; 5:1107931. [PMID: 37351522 PMCID: PMC10282605 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2023.1107931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Adverse pregnancy outcomes are the main causes of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality, including long-term physical and psychological sequelae. These events are common in low- and middle-income countries, particularly in Sub Saharan Africa, despite national efforts. Maternal infections can cause complications at any stage of pregnancy and contribute to adverse outcomes. Among infections, those of the genital tract are a major public health concern worldwide, due to limited availability of prevention, diagnosis and treatment approaches. This applies even to treatable infections and holds true especially in Sub-Saharan Africa. As late as 2017, the region accounted for 40% of all reported treatable non-viral genital pathogens worldwide, many of which have been independently associated with various adverse pregnancy outcomes, and that include Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Trichomonas vaginalis, Treponema pallidum. Two databases (PubMed and Embase) were examined to identify eligible studies published up to October 2022. This study reviewed findings on the association between infections by treatable non-viral genital pathogens during pregnancy and adverse pregnancy outcomes among women living in Sub-Saharan Africa. Articles' title and abstract were screened at first using keywords as "sexually transmitted infections", "non-viral", "adverse pregnancy outcome", "Africa", "sub-Saharan Africa", "pregnant women", "pregnancy", and "pregnancy outcome". Subsequently, according to the eligibility criteria, potential articles were read in full. Results showed that higher risk of preterm birth is associated with Treponema pallidum, Chlamydia trachomatis and Candida albicans infections. Additionally, rates of stillbirth, neonatal death, low birth weight and intrauterine growth restriction are also associated with Treponema pallidum infection. A better insight on the burden of non-viral genital pathogens and their effect on pregnancy is needed to inform antenatal care guidelines and screening programs, to guide the development of innovative diagnostic tools and other strategies to minimize transmission, and to prevent short- and long-term complications for mothers and children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlotta Gamberini
- Institute for Public Health Genomics (IPHG), Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, Research School GROW for Oncology and Reproduction, Faculty of Health, Medicine & Life Sciences, University of Maastricht, Maastricht, Netherlands
- Research School GROW for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Naomi C. A. Juliana
- Institute for Public Health Genomics (IPHG), Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, Research School GROW for Oncology and Reproduction, Faculty of Health, Medicine & Life Sciences, University of Maastricht, Maastricht, Netherlands
- Research School GROW for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Lenya de Brouwer
- Institute for Public Health Genomics (IPHG), Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, Research School GROW for Oncology and Reproduction, Faculty of Health, Medicine & Life Sciences, University of Maastricht, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Dorothea Vogelsang
- Institute for Public Health Genomics (IPHG), Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, Research School GROW for Oncology and Reproduction, Faculty of Health, Medicine & Life Sciences, University of Maastricht, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Salwan Al-Nasiry
- Institute for Public Health Genomics (IPHG), Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, Research School GROW for Oncology and Reproduction, Faculty of Health, Medicine & Life Sciences, University of Maastricht, Maastricht, Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Research School GROW for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Servaas A. Morré
- Institute for Public Health Genomics (IPHG), Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, Research School GROW for Oncology and Reproduction, Faculty of Health, Medicine & Life Sciences, University of Maastricht, Maastricht, Netherlands
- Research School GROW for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Engineering, Jacob Institute of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Allahabad, UP, India
- Dutch Chlamydia trachomatis Reference Laboratory on Behalf of the Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit, Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, Netherlands
| | - Elena Ambrosino
- Institute for Public Health Genomics (IPHG), Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, Research School GROW for Oncology and Reproduction, Faculty of Health, Medicine & Life Sciences, University of Maastricht, Maastricht, Netherlands
- Research School GROW for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
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Sekaran K, Varghese RP, Gopikrishnan M, Alsamman AM, El Allali A, Zayed H, Doss C GP. Unraveling the Dysbiosis of Vaginal Microbiome to Understand Cervical Cancer Disease Etiology-An Explainable AI Approach. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:genes14040936. [PMID: 37107694 PMCID: PMC10137380 DOI: 10.3390/genes14040936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Microbial Dysbiosis is associated with the etiology and pathogenesis of diseases. The studies on the vaginal microbiome in cervical cancer are essential to discern the cause and effect of the condition. The present study characterizes the microbial pathogenesis involved in developing cervical cancer. Relative species abundance assessment identified Firmicutes, Actinobacteria, and Proteobacteria dominating the phylum level. A significant increase in Lactobacillus iners and Prevotella timonensis at the species level revealed its pathogenic influence on cervical cancer progression. The diversity, richness, and dominance analysis divulges a substantial decline in cervical cancer compared to control samples. The β diversity index proves the homogeneity in the subgroups' microbial composition. The association between enriched Lactobacillus iners at the species level, Lactobacillus, Pseudomonas, and Enterococcus genera with cervical cancer is identified by Linear discriminant analysis Effect Size (LEfSe) prediction. The functional enrichment corroborates the microbial disease association with pathogenic infections such as aerobic vaginitis, bacterial vaginosis, and chlamydia. The dataset is trained and validated with repeated k-fold cross-validation technique using a random forest algorithm to determine the discriminative pattern from the samples. SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP), a game theoretic approach, is employed to analyze the results predicted by the model. Interestingly, SHAP identified that the increase in Ralstonia has a higher probability of predicting the sample as cervical cancer. New evidential microbiomes identified in the experiment confirm the presence of pathogenic microbiomes in cervical cancer vaginal samples and their mutuality with microbial imbalance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karthik Sekaran
- School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore 632014, India
| | | | - Mohanraj Gopikrishnan
- School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore 632014, India
| | - Alsamman M Alsamman
- Molecular Genetics and Genome Mapping Laboratory, Genome Mapping Department, Agricultural Genetic Engineering Research Institute, Cairo 12619, Egypt
| | - Achraf El Allali
- African Genome Center, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, Ben Guerir 43150, Morocco
| | - Hatem Zayed
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar
| | - George Priya Doss C
- School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore 632014, India
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14
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Sayres LC, Younge NE, Rikard B, Corcoran DL, Modliszewski JL, Hughes BL. The gestational membrane microbiome in the presence or absence of intraamniotic infection. Am J Obstet Gynecol MFM 2023; 5:100837. [PMID: 36623808 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajogmf.2022.100837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Data regarding the microbiome of the gestational membranes are emerging and conflicting. Shifts in the microbial communities in the setting of labor, rupture of membranes, and intraamniotic infection are yet to be understood. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to characterize the microbiome of the gestational membranes of women in labor or with ruptured membranes, including those with and without intraamniotic infection. STUDY DESIGN Women with a singleton pregnancy at ≥28 weeks' gestation undergoing unscheduled cesarean delivery in the setting of labor or rupture of membranes were included. Demographic and clinical variables were collected. We defined suspected intraamniotic infection by standard clinical criteria; placentae and gestational membranes were also reviewed for histologic evidence of infection. Sterile swabs were collected from membranes at the time of delivery. Bacteria were cultured from the swabs, and the isolates were sequenced. DNA extraction and 16S sequencing of the swabs were also performed. Bacterial taxonomy was assigned to each sequence. Alpha diversity indices and beta-diversity metrics were calculated to test for differences in microbial community diversity and composition between uninfected and infected groups. Differential abundance of bacteria between infected and uninfected groups was tested at the class, family, and genus level. RESULTS Samples were collected from 34 participants. Clinical intraamniotic infection was diagnosed in 38% of participants, although 50% of placentae and membranes demonstrated histologic signs of infection. Of all samples, 68% grew bacteria on culture; this included 62% of the uninfected samples and 77% of the infected samples (P=.83). Multiple measures of alpha diversity were not significantly different between uninfected and infected groups. Similarly, analysis of beta diversity revealed that the microbial community was not significantly different between the uninfected and infected group. Several bacteria traditionally characterized as pathogenic, including Actinomyces and Streptococcus agalactiae, were identified in both infected and uninfected samples. CONCLUSION The pathogenesis and clinical implications of intraamniotic infection remain poorly understood. Diverse bacteria are present in both infected and uninfected gestational membranes. A unique microbiologic signature may exist among the gestational membranes following labor or rupture of membranes, and further characterization of the pathogens specifically implicated in intraamniotic infection may allow for targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren C Sayres
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University, Durham, NC (Dr Sayres).
| | - Noelle E Younge
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University, Durham, NC (Dr Younge and Ms Rikard)
| | - Blaire Rikard
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University, Durham, NC (Dr Younge and Ms Rikard)
| | - David L Corcoran
- Department of Genetics, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC (Dr Corcoran)
| | | | - Brenna L Hughes
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University, Durham, NC (Dr Hughes)
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15
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Das S, Bhattacharjee MJ, Mukherjee AK, Khan MR. Recent advances in understanding of multifaceted changes in the vaginal microenvironment: implications in vaginal health and therapeutics. Crit Rev Microbiol 2023; 49:256-282. [PMID: 35312419 DOI: 10.1080/1040841x.2022.2049696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The vagina endures multifaceted changes from neonatal to menopausal phases due to hormonal flux, metabolite deposition, and microbial colonization. These features have important implications in women's health. Several pre-factors show dynamic characteristics according to the phases that shift the vaginal microbiota from anaerobes to aerobes which is a hallmark of healthy vaginal environment. These factors include oestrogen levels, glycogen deposition, and vaginal microstructure. In the adult phase, Lactobacillus is highly dominant and regulates pH, adherence, aggregation, immune modulation, synthesis of bacteriocins, and biosurfactants (BSs) which are antagonistic to pathogens. Maternal factors are protective by favouring the colonization of lactobacilli in the vagina in the neonatal phase, which diminishes with age. The dominance of lactobacilli and dysbiosis in the adult phase depends on intrinsic and extrinsic factors in women, which vary between ethnicities. Recent developments in probiotics used against vaginal microbiome dysbiosis have shown great promise in restoring the normal microbiota including preventing the loss of beneficial bacteria. However, further in-depth studies are warranted to ensure long-term protection by probiotics. This review highlights various aspects of the vaginal microenvironment in different phases of growth and diverse ethnicities. Furthermore, it discusses future trends for formulating more effective population-specific probiotics and implications of paraprobiotics and postbiotics as effective therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sushmita Das
- Division of Life Science, Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology, Guwahati, India
| | | | - Ashis K Mukherjee
- Division of Life Science, Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology, Guwahati, India.,Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tezpur University, Tezpur, India
| | - Mojibur Rohman Khan
- Division of Life Science, Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology, Guwahati, India
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16
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Commensal Lactobacilli Metabolically Contribute to Cervical Epithelial Homeostasis in a Species-Specific Manner. mSphere 2023; 8:e0045222. [PMID: 36629413 PMCID: PMC9942568 DOI: 10.1128/msphere.00452-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
In reproductive-age women, the vaginal microbiome is typically dominated by one or a few Lactobacillus species, including Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus iners, Lactobacillus paragasseri, Lactobacillus mulieris, and Lactobaccillus crispatus, has been associated with optimal cervicovaginal health; however, much is still unknown about how other lactobacilli metabolically contribute to cervicovaginal health. We hypothesized that metabolites of each Lactobacillus species differ and uniquely contribute to health and homeostasis. To address this hypothesis, we utilized a human three-dimensional (3D) cervical epithelial cell model in conjunction with genomics analyses and untargeted metabolomics to determine the metabolic contributions of less-studied vaginal lactobacilli-L. iners, L. paragasseri, and L. mulieris. Our study validated that vaginal lactobacilli exhibit a close phylogenetic relationship. Genomic findings from publicly available strains and those used in our study indicated that L. iners is metabolically distinct from other species of lactobacilli, likely due to a reduced genome size. Lactobacilli and mock controls were distinguishable based on global metabolic profiles. We identified 95 significantly altered metabolites (P < 0.05) between individual lactobacilli and mock controls. Metabolites related to amino acid metabolism were shared among the lactobacilli. N-Acetylated amino acids with potential antimicrobial properties were significantly elevated in a species-specific manner. L. paragasseri and L. iners shared aromatic, but not carbohydrate-derived, lactic acid metabolites with potential antimicrobial properties that may contribute to homeostasis of the cervicovaginal environment. Additionally, L. iners uniquely altered lipid metabolism, which may be a sign of adaptation to the cervicovaginal niche. Overall, these findings further elucidate the metabolic contributions of three key vaginal Lactobacillus species in gynecological health. IMPORTANCE Lactobacillus species contribute to cervicovaginal health by their production of lactic acid and other antimicrobial compounds. Yet, much is still unknown regarding the metabolic potential of lesser-studied but common vaginal lactobacilli. Here, we used untargeted metabolomics coupled with our 3D cervical epithelial cell model to identify metabolic differences among vaginal Lactobacillus species (Lactobacillus iners, Lactobacillus paragasseri, and Lactobacillus mulieris) and how those differences related to maintaining homeostasis of the cervical epithelium. Human 3D cell models are essential tools for studying host-bacteria interactions and reducing confounding factors inherent in clinical studies. Therefore, these unique models allowed us to decipher the putative lactobacilli mechanisms that contribute to their roles in health or disease. Metabolic analyses revealed distinct profiles of each Lactobacillus species but also shared metabolic contributions associated with antimicrobial activity: amino acid metabolism, N-acetylated amino acids, and aromatic lactic acids. These patterns provided validation of metabolites associated with health in clinical studies and provided novel targets, including immunomodulatory and antimicrobial metabolites, for postbiotic therapies.
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Sasivimolrattana T, Chantratita W, Sensorn I, Chaiwongkot A, Oranratanaphan S, Bhattarakosol P, Bhattarakosol P. Cervical Microbiome in Women Infected with HPV16 and High-Risk HPVs. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:14716. [PMID: 36429432 PMCID: PMC9690271 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192214716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 11/05/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Human papillomavirus type 16 (HPV16) and/or high-risk (Hr-) HPV are the main causes of cervical cancer. Another element that may contribute to the development of cervical cancer is the microbiota. To date, no study has investigated the entire cervical microbiome, which consists of bacteria, fungi, and viruses. In this study, cervical samples with different histopathology (CIN1, CIN2, and CIN3), with or without HPV16 and Hr-HPVs infection, were enrolled. From bacterial community analysis, 115 bacterial species were found and separated into 2 distinct categories based on Lactobacillus abundance: Lactobacilli-dominated (LD) and non-Lactobacilli-dominated (NLD) groups. The LD group had significantly less bacterial diversity than the NLD group. In addition, the variety of bacteria was contingent on the prevalence of HPV infection. Among distinct histological groups, an abundance of L. iners (>60% of total Lactobacillus spp.) was discovered in both groups. A few fungi, e.g., C. albicans, were identified in the fungal community. The viral community analysis revealed that the presence of HPV considerably reduced the diversity of human viruses. Taken together, when we analyzed all our results collectively, we discovered that HPV infection was a significant determinant in the diversity of bacteria and human viruses in the cervix.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thanayod Sasivimolrattana
- Medical Microbiology Interdisciplinary Program, Graduate School, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- Center of Excellence in Applied Medical Virology, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Wasun Chantratita
- Center for Medical Genomics, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Insee Sensorn
- Center for Medical Genomics, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Arkom Chaiwongkot
- Center of Excellence in Applied Medical Virology, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- Division of Virology, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Shina Oranratanaphan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Pattarasinee Bhattarakosol
- Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Parvapan Bhattarakosol
- Center of Excellence in Applied Medical Virology, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- Division of Virology, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
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18
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Chopra C, Bhushan I, Mehta M, Koushal T, Gupta A, Sharma S, Kumar M, Khodor SA, Sharma S. Vaginal microbiome: considerations for reproductive health. Future Microbiol 2022; 17:1501-1513. [DOI: 10.2217/fmb-2022-0112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The microbial communities are an indispensable part of the human defense system and coexist with humans as symbionts, contributing to the metabolic functions and immune defense against pathogens. An ecologically stable vaginal microbiota is dominated by Lactobacillus species, which plays an important role in the prevention of genital infections by controlling the vaginal pH, reducing glycogen to lactic acid, and stimulating bacteriocins and hydrogen peroxide. In contrast, an abnormal vaginal microbial composition is associated with an increased risk of bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, sexually transmitted diseases, preterm labor and other birth defects. This microbial diversity is affected by race, ethnicity, pregnancy, hormonal changes, sexual activities, hygiene practices and other conditions. In the present review, we discuss the changes in the microbial community of the vaginal region at different stages of a female's life cycle and its influence on her reproductive health and pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chitrakshi Chopra
- School of Biotechnology, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University, Katra, Jammu & Kashmir, 182320, India
| | - Indu Bhushan
- School of Biotechnology, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University, Katra, Jammu & Kashmir, 182320, India
| | - Malvika Mehta
- School of Biotechnology, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University, Katra, Jammu & Kashmir, 182320, India
| | - Tanvi Koushal
- School of Biotechnology, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University, Katra, Jammu & Kashmir, 182320, India
| | - Amita Gupta
- Department of Gynecology, Government Medical College, Jammu, (J&K), 180001, India
| | - Sarika Sharma
- Department of Sponsored Research, Division of Research & Development, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, 144411, India
| | - Manoj Kumar
- Research Department, Sidra Medicine, Doha, 26999, Qatar
| | | | - Sandeep Sharma
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, 144411, India
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19
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Human Virome in Cervix Controlled by the Domination of Human Papillomavirus. Viruses 2022; 14:v14092066. [PMID: 36146871 PMCID: PMC9503738 DOI: 10.3390/v14092066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Although other co-viral infections could also be considered influencing factors, cervical human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is the main cause of cervical cancer. Metagenomics have been employed in the NGS era to study the microbial community in each habitat. Thus, in this investigation, virome capture sequencing was used to examine the virome composition in the HPV-infected cervix. Based on the amount of HPV present in each sample, the results revealed that the cervical virome of HPV-infected individuals could be split into two categories: HPV-dominated (HD; ≥60%) and non-HPV-dominated (NHD; <60%). Cervical samples contained traces of several human viral species, including the molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV), human herpesvirus 4 (HHV4), torque teno virus (TTV), and influenza A virus. When compared to the HD group, the NHD group had a higher abundance of several viruses. Human viral diversity appears to be influenced by HPV dominance. This is the first proof that the diversity of human viruses in the cervix is impacted by HPV abundance. However, more research is required to determine whether human viral variety and the emergence of cancer are related.
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20
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McClymont E, Albert AY, Wang C, Dos Santos SJ, Coutlée F, Lee M, Walmsley S, Lipsky N, Loutfy M, Trottier S, Smaill F, Klein MB, Yudin MH, Harris M, Wobeser W, Hill JE, Money DM. Vaginal microbiota associated with oncogenic HPV in a cohort of HPV-vaccinated women living with HIV. Int J STD AIDS 2022; 33:847-855. [PMID: 35775280 PMCID: PMC9388949 DOI: 10.1177/09564624221109686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Background Women living with HIV (WLWH) experience higher rates of human papillomavirus
(HPV) infection and cervical cancer than women without HIV. Changes in the
vaginal microbiome have been implicated in HPV-related disease processes
such as persistence of high-risk HPV infection but this has not been well
defined in a population living with HIV. Methods Four hundred and 20 girls and WLWH, age ≥9, across 14 clinical sites in
Canada were enrolled to receive three doses of quadrivalent HPV vaccine for
assessment of vaccine immunogenicity. Blood, cervical cytology, and
cervico-vaginal swabs were collected. Cervico-vaginal samples were tested
for HPV DNA and underwent microbiota sequencing. Results Principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical clustering generated
community state types (CSTs). Relationships between taxa and CSTs with HPV
infection were examined using mixed-effects logistic regressions, Poisson
regressions, or generalized linear mixed-effects models, as appropriate.
Three hundred and fifty-six cervico-vaginal microbiota samples from 172
women were sequenced. Human papillomavirus DNA was detected in 211 (59%)
samples; 110 (31%) contained oncogenic HPV. Sixty-five samples (18%) were
taken concurrently with incident oncogenic HPV infection and 56 (16%) were
collected from women with concurrent persistent oncogenic HPV infection. Conclusions No significant associations between taxa, CST, or microbial diversity and
HPV-related outcomes were found. However, we observed weak associations
between a dysbiotic microbiome and specific species, including
Gardnerella, Porphyromonas, and
Prevotella species, with incident HPV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth McClymont
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 8166University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,469220Canadian HIV Trials Network, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | - Christine Wang
- Faculty of Medicine, 12358University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Scott J Dos Santos
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, 70399University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - François Coutlée
- Département de Microbiologie Médicale et Infectiologie, 5622l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Marette Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 8166University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Sharon Walmsley
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University of Toronto, 7989University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Dalla Lana School of Public Health, 274071University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Nancy Lipsky
- 574117Women's Health Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Mona Loutfy
- Women's College Research Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sylvie Trottier
- Infectious Diseases Research Centre, 4440Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
| | - Fiona Smaill
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, 3710McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Marina B Klein
- 54473McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Mark H Yudin
- Women's College Research Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, 574538St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Marianne Harris
- Faculty of Medicine, 12358University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,198129British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Wendy Wobeser
- Departments of Public Health and Molecular & Biomedical Sciences, 4257Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Janet E Hill
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, 70399University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Deborah M Money
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 8166University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,574117Women's Health Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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21
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Bommana S, Richards G, Kama M, Kodimerla R, Jijakli K, Read TD, Dean D. Metagenomic Shotgun Sequencing of Endocervical, Vaginal, and Rectal Samples among Fijian Women with and without Chlamydia trachomatis Reveals Disparate Microbial Populations and Function across Anatomic Sites: a Pilot Study. Microbiol Spectr 2022; 10:e0010522. [PMID: 35579443 PMCID: PMC9241848 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00105-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis is a sexually transmitted pathogen and a global public health concern. Little is known about the microbial composition and function across endocervical, vaginal, and rectal microbiomes in the context of C. trachomatis infection. We evaluated the microbiomes of 10 age-matched high-risk Fijian women with and without C. trachomatis using metagenomic shotgun sequencing (MSS). Lactobacillus iners and Lactobacillus crispatus dominated the vagina and endocervix of uninfected women. Species often found in higher relative abundance in bacterial vaginosis (BV)-Mageeibacillus indolicus, Prevotella spp., Sneathia spp., Gardnerella vaginalis, and Veillonellaceae spp.-were dominant in C. trachomatis-infected women. This combination of BV pathogens was unique to Pacific Islanders compared to previously studied groups. The C. trachomatis-infected endocervix had a higher diversity of microbiota and microbial profiles that were somewhat different from those of the vagina. However, community state type III (CST-III) and CST-IV predominated, reflecting pathogenic microbiota regardless of C. trachomatis infection status. Rectal microbiomes were dominated by Prevotella and Bacteroides, although four women had unique microbiomes with Gardnerella, Akkermansia, Bifidobacterium, and Brachyspira. A high level of microbial similarity across microbiomes in two C. trachomatis-infected women suggested intragenitorectal transmission. A number of metabolic pathways in the endocervix, driven by BV pathogens and C. trachomatis to meet nutritional requirements for survival/growth, 5-fold higher than that in the vagina indicated that endocervical microbial functions are likely more diverse and complex than those in the vagina. Our novel findings provide the impetus for larger prospective studies to interrogate microbial/microbiome interactions that promote C. trachomatis infection and better define the unique genitorectal microbiomes of Pacific Islanders. IMPORTANCE Chlamydia trachomatis is the primary cause of bacterial sexually transmitted infections worldwide, with a disturbing increase in annual rates. While there is a plethora of data on healthy and pathogenic vaginal microbiomes-defining microbial profiles and associations with sexually transmitted infections (STIs)-far fewer studies have similarly examined the endocervix or rectum. Further, vulnerable populations, such as Pacific Islanders, remain underrepresented in research. We investigated the microbial composition, structure, and function of these anatomic microbiomes using metagenomic shotgun sequencing among a Fijian cohort. We found, primarily among C. trachomatis-infected women, unique microbial profiles in endocervical, vaginal, and rectal microbiomes with an increased diversity and more complex microbial pathways in endocervical than vaginal microbiomes. Similarities in microbiome composition across sites for some women suggested intragenitorectal transmission. These novel insights into genitorectal microbiomes and their purported function require prospective studies to better define Pacific Islander microbiomes and microbial/microbiome interactions that promote C. trachomatis infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sankhya Bommana
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, Oakland, California, USA
| | - Gracie Richards
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, Oakland, California, USA
| | - Mike Kama
- Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Suva, Fiji
| | - Reshma Kodimerla
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, Oakland, California, USA
| | - Kenan Jijakli
- Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Timothy D. Read
- Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Deborah Dean
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, Oakland, California, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, Joint Graduate Program, University of California San Francisco and University of California Berkeley, San Francisco, California, USA
- Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Benioff Center for Microbiome Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
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22
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Abstract
Trichomonas vaginalis can host the endosymbiont Mycoplasma hominis, an opportunistic pathogenic bacterium capable of modulating T. vaginalis pathobiology. Recently, a new noncultivable mycoplasma, "Candidatus Mycoplasma girerdii," has been shown to be closely associated with women affected by trichomoniasis, suggesting a biological association. Although several features of "Ca. M. girerdii" have been investigated through genomic analysis, the nature of the potential T. vaginalis-"Ca. M. girerdii" consortium and its impact on the biology and pathogenesis of both microorganisms have not yet been explored. Here, we investigate the association between "Ca. M. girerdii" and T. vaginalis isolated from patients affected by trichomoniasis, demonstrating their intracellular localization. By using an in vitro model system based on single- and double-Mycoplasma infection of Mycoplasma-free isogenic T. vaginalis, we investigated the ability of the protist to establish a relationship with the bacteria and impact T. vaginalis growth. Our data indicate likely competition between M. hominis and "Ca. M. girerdii" while infecting trichomonad cells. Comparative dual-transcriptomics data showed major shifts in parasite gene expression in response to the presence of Mycoplasma, including genes associated with energy metabolism and pathogenesis. Consistent with the transcriptomics data, both parasite-mediated hemolysis and binding to host epithelial cells were significantly upregulated in the presence of either Mycoplasma species. Taken together, these results support a model in which this microbial association could modulate the virulence of T. vaginalis. IMPORTANCE T. vaginalis and M. hominis form a unique case of endosymbiosis that modulates the parasite's pathobiology. Recently, a new nonculturable mycoplasma species ("Candidatus Mycoplasma girerdii") has been described as closely associated with the protozoon. Here, we report the characterization of this endosymbiotic relationship. Clinical isolates of the parasite demonstrate that mycoplasmas are common among trichomoniasis patients. The relationships are studied by devising an in vitro system of single and/or double infections in isogenic protozoan recipients. Comparative growth experiments and transcriptomics data demonstrate that the composition of different microbial consortia influences the growth of the parasite and significantly modulates its transcriptomic profile, including metabolic enzymes and virulence genes such as adhesins and pore-forming proteins. The data on modulation from RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) correlated closely with those of the cytopathic effect and adhesion to human target cells. We propose the hypothesis that the presence and the quantitative ratios of endosymbionts may contribute to modulating protozoan virulence. Our data highlight the importance of considering pathogenic entities as microbial ecosystems, reinforcing the importance of the development of integrated diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
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23
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Murina F, Lubrano C, Cappelli E, Campo M, Taraborrelli S. The role of female intimate hygiene practices in the management of vulvovaginal candidiasis: A randomized, controlled open-label trial. Health Care Women Int 2022; 44:689-700. [PMID: 35759680 DOI: 10.1080/07399332.2022.2061972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
In this multicenter, observational, controlled open-label trial, researchers randomized 200 women with vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) to: Group 1, 6-days clotrimazole 2% vaginal cream once-daily plus 15-days concomitant acid pH thymol and zinc-containing cleansing wash (SaugellaActi3) twice-daily; Group 2, 6-days clotrimazole treatment alone. In both groups, pruritus and burning VAS scores improved from baseline at Days 6, 10 and 15. On Day 10 and Day 15, the pruritus score was significantly lower in Group 1 versus Group 2 (P <0.005 at both timepoints), suggesting acid pH thymol and zinc-containing cleansing wash ameliorates VVC-associated pruritus as part of a female hygiene regimen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filippo Murina
- Lower Genital Tract Disease Unit, Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, V. Buzzi Hospital-University of the Study of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Lubrano
- Lower Genital Tract Disease Unit, Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, V. Buzzi Hospital-University of the Study of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Maria Campo
- Gynaecology and Obstetrics Hospital Unit, Giovanni Paolo II Hospital, Ragusa, Italy
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24
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Gupta I, Pedersen S, Vranic S, Al Moustafa AE. Implications of Gut Microbiota in Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition and Cancer Progression: A Concise Review. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14122964. [PMID: 35740629 PMCID: PMC9221329 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14122964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Recently, the interactions between microbiota and the host have been reported to induce the onset and progression of human cancer via epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). In contrast, some microorganisms can protect against cancer growth, indicating an anticancer therapeutic action of such microbiota. In the review, we summarize findings from the literature, exploring the underlying mechanisms by which pathogenic microorganisms induce EMT. We also highlight the potential of exploiting these complex interactions for developing new biological therapies. Abstract Advancement in the development of molecular sequencing platforms has identified infectious bacteria or viruses that trigger the dysregulation of a set of genes inducing the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) event. EMT is essential for embryogenesis, wound repair, and organ development; meanwhile, during carcinogenesis, initiation of the EMT can promote cancer progression and metastasis. Recent studies have reported that interactions between the host and dysbiotic microbiota in different tissues and organs, such as the oral and nasal cavities, esophagus, stomach, gut, skin, and the reproductive tract, may provoke EMT. On the other hand, it is revealed that certain microorganisms display a protective role against cancer growth, indicative of possible therapeutic function. In this review, we summarize recent findings elucidating the underlying mechanisms of pathogenic microorganisms, especially the microbiota, in eliciting crucial regulator genes that induce EMT. Such an approach may help explain cancer progression and pave the way for developing novel preventive and therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ishita Gupta
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar; (S.P.); (S.V.)
- Correspondence: (I.G.); (A.-E.A.M.); Tel.: +974-4403-6643 (I.G.); +974-4403-7817 (A-E.A.M.)
| | - Shona Pedersen
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar; (S.P.); (S.V.)
| | - Semir Vranic
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar; (S.P.); (S.V.)
| | - Ala-Eddin Al Moustafa
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar; (S.P.); (S.V.)
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar
- Correspondence: (I.G.); (A.-E.A.M.); Tel.: +974-4403-6643 (I.G.); +974-4403-7817 (A-E.A.M.)
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25
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Ruotsalainen AL, Tejesvi MV, Vänni P, Suokas M, Tossavainen P, Pirttilä AM, Talvensaari-Mattila A, Nissi R. Child type 1 diabetes associated with mother vaginal bacteriome and mycobiome. Med Microbiol Immunol 2022; 211:185-194. [PMID: 35701558 PMCID: PMC9304052 DOI: 10.1007/s00430-022-00741-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Mother vaginal microbes contribute to microbiome of vaginally delivered neonates. Child microbiome can be associated with autoimmune diseases, such as type 1 diabetes (T1D). We collected vaginal DNA samples from 25 mothers with a vaginally delivered child diagnosed with T1D and samples from 24 control mothers who had vaginally delivered a healthy child and analyzed bacteriome and mycobiome of the samples. The total DNA of the samples was extracted, and ribosomal DNA regions (16S for bacteria, ITS2 for fungi) were amplified, followed by next-generation sequencing and machine learning. We found that alpha-diversity of bacteriome was increased (P < 0.002), whereas alpha-diversity of mycobiome was decreased (P < 0.001) in mothers with a diabetic child compared to the control mothers. Beta-diversity analysis suggested differences in mycobiomes between the mother groups (P = 0.001). Random forest models were able to effectively predict diabetes and control status of unknown samples (bacteria: 0.86 AUC, fungi: 0.96 AUC). Our data indicate several fungal genera and bacterial metabolic pathways of mother vaginal microbiome to be associated with child T1D. We suggest that early onset of T1D in a child has a relationship with altered mother vaginal microbiome and that both bacteriome and mycobiome contribute to this shift.
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Affiliation(s)
- A L Ruotsalainen
- Department of Ecology and Genetics, University of Oulu, POB 3000, 90014, Oulu, Finland.
| | - M V Tejesvi
- Department of Ecology and Genetics, University of Oulu, POB 3000, 90014, Oulu, Finland.,Genobiomics LLC, Oulu, Finland
| | - P Vänni
- Genobiomics LLC, Oulu, Finland
| | - M Suokas
- Department of Ecology and Genetics, University of Oulu, POB 3000, 90014, Oulu, Finland.,Biocenter Oulu Sequencing Center, University of Oulu, POB 8000, 90014, Oulu, Finland
| | - P Tossavainen
- Department of Pediatrics, PEDEGO Research Unit and Medical Research Center, University of Oulu and Oulu University Hospital, PO Box 23, 90029 OYS, Oulu, Finland
| | - A M Pirttilä
- Department of Ecology and Genetics, University of Oulu, POB 3000, 90014, Oulu, Finland
| | - A Talvensaari-Mattila
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oulu, PL 23, FI90029, Oulu, Finland
| | - R Nissi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oulu, PL 23, FI90029, Oulu, Finland
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26
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Zhi L, Ai D, Yong M, Bao H, Han B, Sun B, Tu Y, Er D. The effects of genital myiasis on the diversity of the vaginal microbiota in female Bactrian camels. BMC Vet Res 2022; 18:87. [PMID: 35248026 PMCID: PMC8897907 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-022-03189-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Genital myasis is one of the most important diseases that affects the reproductive organs of Bactrian camels in which can cause serious mechanical damage to the vaginal tissue. The accumulation of bacteria in the vagina of female camels can affect their health and reproductive ability. The effect of this damage is commonly manifested in the vaginal flora and vaginal mucosal immune system. Therefore, this investigation is a study of the diversity of the vaginal flora and the differences between healthy Bactrian camels and those suffering from genital myiasis. Results Vaginal microbiota samples were collected from two groups of female Bactrian camels of the same age. An Illumina MiSeq was used to sequence the 16S rRNA V3-V4 hypervariable sequence in the samples. The results showed that the vaginal microflora of the infected camels had a significantly greater operational taxonomic unit (OTU) value. According to the assessment of the alpha diversity index and the vaginal pH, the diversity index of the infected camel flora was higher than that of the normal camel flora, and the vaginal pH was lower than that of the normal camels (p < 0.01). There were no significant differences between the two groups in the abundance of dominant genera in the Bactrian camel vagina (P > 0.05), indicating that the certain stability is maintained. Conclusions Overall, this comparison revealed the differences and similarities between the vaginal microbiota of Bactrian camels in various health statues. In addition, these data provide a reference point for understanding the types of bacteria that cause genital myiasis affecting the healthy development of Bactrian camels. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12917-022-03189-5.
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27
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Dong Z, Fan C, Hou W, Rui C, Wang X, Fan Y, Zhao L, Wang Q, Wang Z, Zeng X, Feng S, Li P. Vaginal Exposure to Candida albicans During Early Gestation Results in Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes via Inhibiting Placental Development. Front Microbiol 2022; 12:816161. [PMID: 35281308 PMCID: PMC8908259 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.816161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is considered the second most common cause of vaginitis after bacterial vaginosis and the most common lower genital tract infection during pregnancy. Candida albicans (C. albicans), an opportunistic pathogen, is the major species causing VVC. Recently, increasing researches have shown that lower reproductive tract infection during pregnancy can lead to various adverse pregnancy outcomes. However, the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. Hence, we successfully established a mouse model of vaginal C. albicans infection and characterized the adverse pregnancy outcomes. C. albicans infection strikingly increased abortion rate and decreased litter size. Further analysis of placental development demonstrated that placental structure was abnormal, including that the area of spongiotrophoblast (Spo) and labyrinth (Lab) was reduced, and the formation of placental vessel was decreased in Lab zone. Accordingly, the expression of marker genes during placental development was downregulated. Collectively, the above findings revealed that vaginal C. albicans infection during pregnancy can inhibit placental development and ultimately lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes. This study enhances our comprehension of the effect of VVC on pregnancy, and placental dysplasia as a feasible orientation to explore VVC during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyong Dong
- Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Women’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chong Fan
- Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Women’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wenwen Hou
- Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Women’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Can Rui
- Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Women’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xinyan Wang
- Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Women’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuru Fan
- Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Women’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ling Zhao
- Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Women’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qing Wang
- Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Women’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhichong Wang
- Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Women’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xin Zeng
- Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Women’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- *Correspondence: Xin Zeng,
| | - Shanwu Feng
- Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Women’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Shanwu Feng,
| | - Ping Li
- Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Women’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Ping Li,
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28
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Kim MJ, Lee S, Kwon MY, Kim M. Clinical Significance of Composition and Functional Diversity of the Vaginal Microbiome in Recurrent Vaginitis. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:851670. [PMID: 35250962 PMCID: PMC8895140 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.851670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
ObjectiveThe vaginal microbiome protects the female genital tract from various diseases, such as vaginitis, a vaginal inflammation characterized by abnormal discharge, itching, and pain. To evaluate the clinical relationship between the vaginal microbiome and the pathophysiology of recurrent vaginitis (RV), we investigated the microbiome taxonomic profile (MTP) in the vaginal samples of Korean female patients with RV.MethodsForty women of reproductive age diagnosed with RV were enrolled. The vaginal MTP of patients was analyzed using 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing, and the results were compared with that of healthy women (n = 100). Further, the association of the vaginal community state type (CST) with the clinical characteristics was analyzed.ResultsThe species abundance of MTP was significantly lower in patients with RV than in healthy women (p < 0.05), whereas species evenness and diversity were significantly higher in patients with RV than in healthy individuals (p < 0.05). The proportion of the most common vaginal Lactobacillus spp. was significantly lower in the MTP of patients with RV than healthy women (p < 0.01). The beta diversity distance was also significantly different between patients with RV patients and healthy individuals (p = 0.001). Based on the CST, the MTP of 40 RV samples was categorized as follows: 21 (52.5%) for CST IV, 8 (20.0%) for CST III, 5 (12.5%) for CST I, 2 (5.0%) for CST II, 1 for (2.5%) for CST V, and 3 (7.5%) for mixed CST. Patients with underlying uterine diseases (uterine leiomyoma, adenomyosis, and endometrial polyps; n = 17) showed higher species richness and diversity than those without (n = 23; p < 0.05).ConclusionChanges in the species abundance and microbial diversity in the vagina were strongly associated with RV. A low proportion of Lactobacillus spp. was found in patients with RV than in healthy women. The abundance and diversity of bacterial taxa were significantly higher in patients with underlying gynecologic disease than those without. Our study offers an insight into the nature of the vaginal microbiome and proposes that surveying the vaginal microbiome is valuable for detecting and treating gynecologic diseases in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Jeong Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bucheon St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Seungok Lee
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Incheon St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, South Korea
- *Correspondence: Seungok Lee,
| | - Mi Yeon Kwon
- Department of Clinical Medicine Research, Bucheon St. Mary’s Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Myungshin Kim
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, South Korea
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29
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Kunaseth J, Waiyaput W, Chanchaem P, Sawaswong V, Permpech R, Payungporn S, Sophonsritsuk A. Vaginal microbiome of women with adenomyosis: A case-control study. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0263283. [PMID: 35171931 PMCID: PMC8849446 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0263283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune dysregulation can involve invasion and survival of endometrial glands inside the myometrium of the adenomyosis. There is limited available data concerning alterations of the bacterial microbiome in the reproductive tract of adenomyosis women. The present cross-sectional age-matched study aims to compare vaginal microbiota between women with and without adenomyosis. We recruited women with adenomyosis (N = 40) and age-matched women without adenomyosis (N = 40) from the Departments of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ramathibodi Hospital Mahidol University, from August 2020 to January 2021. Vaginal swab samples were collected from the participants. DNA isolation and bacterial 16s rDNA gene sequencing and data analyses were then performed. Comparison of the diversity of vaginal microbiota, microbiota composition, and the operational taxonomic unit (OTU) between adenomyosis and non-adenomyosis (control) groups were undertaken. Data from 40 and 38 women with and without adenomyosis, respectively, were analyzed. Alpha-diversity analysis (Chao1 index) at the species level showed higher vaginal microbial richness in the adenomyosis group when compared with the control group (p = 0.006). The linear discriminant analysis effect size technique (LeFSe) indicated an elevated abundance of several vaginal microbial taxa in the adenomyosis group, including Alloscardovia, Oscillospirales, Ruminoccoccaceae, UCG_002, Oscillospiraceae, Enhydrobacter, Megamonas, Moraxellaceae, Subdoligranulum, Selenomonadaceae, and Faecalibacterium. On the other hand, an increase in the abundance of Megaspehera, Fastidiosipila, Hungateiclostridiaceae, and Clostridia was identified in the control group. Vaginal community state type (CST)-III and -IV were dominated in adenomyosis, while only CST-IV was dominated in the non-adenomyosis group. Lactobacillus was the most abundant vaginal microbial in both groups. In this study, the differences in vaginal microbiome profile were noted between adenomyosis and non-adenomyosis group. The increasing of microbial richness was associated with adenomyosis. Nevertheless, further investigations were required to elucidate the mechanisms and apply them for clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jitsupa Kunaseth
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Wanwisa Waiyaput
- Office of Research Academic and Innovation, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Prangwalai Chanchaem
- Research Unit of Systems Microbiology, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Vorthon Sawaswong
- Research Unit of Systems Microbiology, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Program in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Graduate School, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Rattana Permpech
- Perioperative Nursing Division, Department of Ramathibodi Nursing Service, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Sunchai Payungporn
- Research Unit of Systems Microbiology, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- * E-mail: (AS); (SP)
| | - Areepan Sophonsritsuk
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- * E-mail: (AS); (SP)
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Thapa R, Gurung S, Parat MO, Parekh HS, Pandey P. Application of Sol–Gels for Treatment of Gynaecological Conditions—Physiological Perspectives and Emerging Concepts in Intravaginal Drug Delivery. Gels 2022; 8:gels8020099. [PMID: 35200479 PMCID: PMC8871440 DOI: 10.3390/gels8020099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Approaches for effective and sustained drug delivery to the female reproductive tract (FRT) for treating a range of gynaecological conditions remain limited. The development of versatile delivery platforms, such as soluble gels (sol–gels) coupled with applicators/devices, holds considerable therapeutic potential for gynaecological conditions. Sol–gel systems, which undergo solution-to-gel transition, triggered by physiological conditions such as changes in temperature, pH, or ion composition, offer advantages of both solution- and gel-based drug formulations. Furthermore, they have potential to be used as a suitable drug delivery vehicle for other novel drug formulations, including micro- and nano-particulate systems, enabling the delivery of drug molecules of diverse physicochemical character. We provide an anatomical and physiological perspective of the significant challenges and opportunities in attaining optimal drug delivery to the upper and lower FRT. Discussion then focuses on attributes of sol–gels that can vastly improve the treatment of gynaecological conditions. The review concludes by showcasing recent advances in vaginal formulation design, and proposes novel formulation strategies enabling the infusion of a wide range of therapeutics into sol–gels, paving the way for patient-friendly treatment regimens for acute and chronic FRT-related conditions such as bacterial/viral infection control (e.g., STDs), contraception, hormone replacement therapy (HRT), infertility, and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ritu Thapa
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall St, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia; (R.T.); (M.-O.P.)
| | - Shila Gurung
- School of Health and Allied Sciences, Pokhara University, Pokhara-30, Kaski 33700, Nepal;
| | - Marie-Odile Parat
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall St, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia; (R.T.); (M.-O.P.)
| | - Harendra S. Parekh
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall St, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia; (R.T.); (M.-O.P.)
- Correspondence: (H.S.P.); (P.P.)
| | - Preeti Pandey
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall St, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia; (R.T.); (M.-O.P.)
- Correspondence: (H.S.P.); (P.P.)
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Abou Chacra L, Fenollar F, Diop K. Bacterial Vaginosis: What Do We Currently Know? Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 11:672429. [PMID: 35118003 PMCID: PMC8805710 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.672429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The vaginal microbiome is a well-defined compartment of the human microbiome. It has unique conditions, characterized by the dominance of one bacterial species, the Lactobacilli. This microbiota manifests itself by a low degree of diversity and by a strong dynamic of change in its composition under the influence of various exogenous and endogenous factors. The increase in diversity may paradoxically be associated with dysbiosis, such as bacterial vaginosis (BV). BV is the result of a disturbance in the vaginal ecosystem; i.e., a sudden replacement of Lactobacilli by anaerobic bacteria such as Gardnerella vaginalis, Atopobium vaginae, Ureaplasma urealyticum, Mycoplasma hominis, and others. It is the most common cause of vaginal discharge in women of childbearing age, approximately 30% of all causes. The etiology of this dysbiosis remains unknown, but its health consequences are significant, including obstetrical complications, increased risk of sexually transmitted infections and urogenital infections. Its diagnosis is based on Amsel’s clinical criteria and/or a gram stain based on the Nugent score. While both of these methods have been widely applied worldwide for approximately three decades, Nugent score are still considered the “gold standard” of BV diagnostic tools. Given the limitations of these tools, methods based on molecular biology have been developed as alternative rational strategies for the diagnosis of BV. The treatment of BV aims at restoring the balance of the vaginal flora to stop the proliferation of harmful microorganisms. Prescription of antibiotics such as metronidazole, clindamycin, etc. is recommended. Faced with the considerable uncertainty about the cause of BV, the high rate of recurrence, the unacceptable treatment options, and clinical management which is often insensitive and inconsistent, research on this topic is intensifying. Knowledge of its composition and its associated variations represents the key element in improving the therapeutic management of patients with the most suitable treatments possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Abou Chacra
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, Marseille, France
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
| | - Florence Fenollar
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, Marseille, France
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
| | - Khoudia Diop
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, Marseille, France
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
- *Correspondence: Khoudia Diop,
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Kim S, Lee SH, Min KJ, Lee S, Hong JH, Song JY, Lee JK, Lee NW, Lee E. Females with impaired ovarian function could be vulnerable to environmental pollutants: identification via next-generation sequencing of the vaginal microbiome. J OBSTET GYNAECOL 2022; 42:1482-1488. [PMID: 34996320 DOI: 10.1080/01443615.2021.2006162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The vaginal microbiome has been widely investigated. However, its relationship with impaired ovarian function has not been evaluated. We conducted a next-generation sequencing (NGS) study of the vaginal microbiome in females with normal and decreased ovarian function and analysed its sensitivity to environmental pollutants. Vaginal swabs were collected from 92 individuals (22 with impaired ovarian function). The 16S rDNA sequences were assembled by FLASH and clustered in OTUs. Diversity analysis was performed using QIIME. The impaired function group showed lower AMH (p < .01) and higher FSH (p = .04). Only two species showed significant differences: Propionibacterium acnes and Prevotella copri. Moreover, more environmental pollutants were related to changes in the vaginal microbiome in the impaired ovarian function group than in the normal group. Vaginal microbiomes in young women with decreased ovarian function tended to be more sensitive to environmental pollutants, especially volatile organic compounds.Impact StatementWhat is already known on this subject? In this study, the possible influence of environmental pollutants, especially volatile organic compounds to ovarian function were identified via next-generation sequencing.What do the results of this study add? This is the first study that shows vaginal microbiomes in young women with decreased ovarian function to be more sensitive to environmental pollutants.What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? The association between impaired ovarian function and environmental pollutants from this study could be helpful when counselling patients with POI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seongmin Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHA Ilsan Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Goyang-si, Republic of Korea.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Se Hee Lee
- Department of Medical Science, Korea University Graduate School, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung Jin Min
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sanghoon Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Hwa Hong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Yun Song
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Kwan Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Nak Woo Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunil Lee
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Yadufashije C, Grace I, Mwanzia L, Muhimpundu L, Munyeshyaka E, Mucumbitsi J, Sangano G, Habyarimana T. Relationship with maternal gut bacteria dysbiosis and gestational weight variation: A Case study of muhoza health center, Rwanda. ADVANCES IN HUMAN BIOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.4103/aihb.aihb_117_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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Allen NG, Edupuganti L, Edwards DJ, Jimenez NR, Buck GA, Jefferson KK, Strauss JF, Wickham EP, Fettweis JM. The vaginal microbiome in women of reproductive age with healthy weight versus overweight/obesity. Obesity (Silver Spring) 2022; 30:142-152. [PMID: 34806323 PMCID: PMC9070090 DOI: 10.1002/oby.23306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to evaluate the differences between the vaginal microbiome of reproductive-aged women with overweight and obesity (Ow/Ob) compared with healthy weight (HW). METHODS In this case-control study, a cohort of 367 nonpregnant women (18 to 40 years) with Ow/Ob (BMI ≥25 kg/m2 ) was case-matched with 367 women with HW (BMI 18.0 to 24.9 kg/m2 ). The study was a secondary analysis of 16S rRNA vaginal microbiome surveys through the Vaginal Human Microbiome Study (VaHMP). Groups were matched on age, race/ethnicity, income, and nulliparity status. RESULTS Mean age and BMI of Ow/Ob and HW groups were 26.8 versus 26.7 years and 37.0 versus 22.1 kg/m2 , respectively. The overall vaginal microbiome composition differed between groups (PERMANOVA, p = 0.035). Women with Ow/Ob had higher alpha diversity compared with women with HW (Wilcoxon test, Shannon index p = 0.025; inverse Simpson index p = 0.026). Lactobacillus dominance (≥30% proportional abundance) was observed in a greater proportion of women with HW (48.7%) compared with Ow/Ob (40.1%; p = 0.026). CONCLUSIONS The vaginal microbiome differs in reproductive-aged women with Ow/Ob compared with women with HW, with increased alpha diversity and decreased predominance of Lactobacillus. Observed differences in the vaginal microbiome may partially explain differences in preterm birth and bacterial vaginosis risk between these populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie G. Allen
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Penn State Health, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Laahirie Edupuganti
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - David J. Edwards
- Department of Statistical Sciences & Operations Research, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Nicole R. Jimenez
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Gregory A. Buck
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Kimberly K. Jefferson
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Jerome F. Strauss
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | | | - Edmond P. Wickham
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Jennifer M. Fettweis
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
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An Insight into Vaginal Microbiome Techniques. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11111229. [PMID: 34833105 PMCID: PMC8623751 DOI: 10.3390/life11111229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a unique microbial community in the female lower genital tract known as the vaginal microbiota, which varies in composition and density and provides significant benefits during pregnancy, reproductive cyclicity, healthy newborn delivery, protection from preterm birth, infections such as UTIs, bacterial vaginosis, and so on, and improves the efficacy of treatments for vaginal cancers. Methods: It is necessary to know how the vaginal microbiome is composed in order to make an accurate diagnosis of the diseases listed above. A microbiome’s members are difficult to classify, and the way microbial communities function and influence host–pathogen interactions are difficult to understand. More and more metagenomic studies are able to unravel such complexities due to advances in high-throughput sequencing and bioinformatics. When it comes to vaginal microbiota research, we’ll be looking at the use of modern techniques and strategies that can be used to investigate variations in vaginal microbiota in order to detect diseases earlier, better treat vaginal disorders, and boost women’s health. Discussion: The discussed techniques and strategies may improve the treatment of vaginal disorders and may be beneficial for women’s overall health.
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Deka N, Hassan S, Seghal Kiran G, Selvin J. Insights into the role of vaginal microbiome in women's health. J Basic Microbiol 2021; 61:1071-1084. [PMID: 34763361 DOI: 10.1002/jobm.202100421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
The vaginal microbiome is a complex and dynamic microecosystem that fluctuates continually throughout a woman's life. Lactobacillus, a bacterium that possesses antibacterial properties dominates a healthy vaginal microbiome. Bacterial vaginosis is the most common vaginal disorder that has been linked with the dysbiosis of normal vaginal microbiota. Despite the importance of vaginal microbiome, little is known about functions it performs especially, how it helps in protecting the female reproductive tract. This knowledge gap is a significant impediment to the development of effective and feasible clinical treatments that might be required to improve women's health. Thus, a deeper understanding of the functional aspects and not just the composition of vaginal microbiome may aid in improving the diagnostics and treatment strategies. Recent advancement in molecular methods and computational biology have allowed researchers to acquire more knowledge about the vaginal microbiome. The use of metagenomics (culture-independent high-throughput technology) and bioinformatics tools have improved our understanding of the vaginal microbiome. In this review, we have attempted to explore the factors that may alter normal vaginal microbiota homeostasis such as age, sexual behavior, ethnicity, and hygiene, and so forth. We also discuss the role of probiotics in restoring healthy vaginal microbiome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Namrata Deka
- Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Saqib Hassan
- Division of Non-Communicable Diseases, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), New Delhi, India.,Department of Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, Pondicherry University, Puducherry, India
| | - George Seghal Kiran
- Department of Food Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, Pondicherry University, Puducherry, India
| | - Joseph Selvin
- Department of Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, Pondicherry University, Puducherry, India
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Gressel GM, Usyk M, Frimer M, Kuo DYS, Burk RD. Characterization of the endometrial, cervicovaginal and anorectal microbiota in post-menopausal women with endometrioid and serous endometrial cancers. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0259188. [PMID: 34739493 PMCID: PMC8570463 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0259188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To characterize the microbiota of postmenopausal women undergoing hysterectomy for endometrioid (EAC) or uterine serous cancers (USC) compared to controls with non-malignant conditions. METHODS Endometrial, cervicovaginal and anorectal microbial swabs were obtained from 35 postmenopausal women (10 controls, 14 EAC and 11 USC) undergoing hysterectomy. Extracted DNA was PCR amplified using barcoded 16S rRNA gene V4 primers. Sequenced libraries were processed using QIIME2. Phyloseq was used to calculate α- and β- diversity measures. Biomarkers associated with case status were identified using ANCOM after adjustment for patient age, race and BMI. PICRUSt was used to identify microbial pathways associated with case status. RESULTS Beta-diversity of microbial communities across each niche was significantly different (R2 = 0.25, p < 0.001). Alpha-diversity of the uterine microbiome was reduced in USC (Chao1, p = 0.004 and Fisher, p = 0.007) compared to EAC. Biomarkers from the three anatomical sites allowed samples to be clustered into two distinct clades that distinguished controls from USC cases (p = 0.042). The USC group was defined by 13 bacterial taxa across the three sites (W-stat>10, FDR<0.05) including depletion of cervicovaginal Lactobacillus and elevation of uterine Pseudomonas. PICRUSTt analysis revealed highly significant differences between the USC-associated clades within the cervicovaginal and uterine microbiota. CONCLUSIONS The microbial diversity of anatomic niches in postmenopausal women with EAC and USC is different compared to controls. Multiple bacteria are associated with USC case status including elevated levels of cervicovaginal Lactobacillus, depletion of uterine Pseudomonas, and substantially different functional potentials identified within cervicovaginal and uterine niches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory M. Gressel
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Women’s Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, United States of America
- Albert Einstein Cancer Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States of America
| | - Mykhaylo Usyk
- Department of Pediatrics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, United States of America
| | - Marina Frimer
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Karches Center for Oncology Research, Feinstein Institutes at Northwell Health, Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, United States of America
| | - D. Y. S. Kuo
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Women’s Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, United States of America
- Albert Einstein Cancer Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States of America
| | - Robert D. Burk
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Women’s Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, United States of America
- Albert Einstein Cancer Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, United States of America
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States of America
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Ouarabi L, Drider D, Taminiau B, Daube G, Bendali F, Lucau-Danila A. Vaginal Microbiota: Age Dynamic and Ethnic Particularities of Algerian Women. MICROBIAL ECOLOGY 2021; 82:1020-1029. [PMID: 32975677 DOI: 10.1007/s00248-020-01606-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The composition of the vaginal microbiota is a key element for maintaining gynecological and reproductive health. With the aim of obtaining an accurate overview of the vaginal microbiota of Algerian women, in terms of their age and ethnic group, we conducted a 16S rRNA gene targeted metagenomic analysis of 100 vaginal samples taken from healthy childbearing and menopausal women. These data were used to establish the pattern of the vaginal microbiota during reproductive and postreproductive phases. Hormone levels were correlated to changes in microbial composition for menopausal women. The ethnic comparison revealed a particular microbiota profile for Algerian women, with a dominance of CST III and CST I. A rapid qPCR method developed by the authors was successfully used to identify the vaginal bacterial pattern for a customized gynecological management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liza Ouarabi
- Laboratoire de Microbiologie Appliquée, Faculté des Sciences la Nature et de la Vie, Université de Bejaia, 06000, Bejaia, Algeria
- BioEcoAgro N° 1158, Univ. Lille, INRAE, Univ. Liège, UPJV, YNCREA, Univ. Artois, Univ. Littoral Côte d'Opale, ICV, Institut Charles Viollette, F-59000, Lille, France
| | - Djamel Drider
- BioEcoAgro N° 1158, Univ. Lille, INRAE, Univ. Liège, UPJV, YNCREA, Univ. Artois, Univ. Littoral Côte d'Opale, ICV, Institut Charles Viollette, F-59000, Lille, France
| | - Bernard Taminiau
- Department of Food Sciences, Microbiology, FARAH, University of Liege, 4000, Liege, Belgium
| | - Georges Daube
- Department of Food Sciences, Microbiology, FARAH, University of Liege, 4000, Liege, Belgium
| | - Farida Bendali
- Laboratoire de Microbiologie Appliquée, Faculté des Sciences la Nature et de la Vie, Université de Bejaia, 06000, Bejaia, Algeria
| | - Anca Lucau-Danila
- BioEcoAgro N° 1158, Univ. Lille, INRAE, Univ. Liège, UPJV, YNCREA, Univ. Artois, Univ. Littoral Côte d'Opale, ICV, Institut Charles Viollette, F-59000, Lille, France.
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Punzón-Jiménez P, Labarta E. The impact of the female genital tract microbiome in women health and reproduction: a review. J Assist Reprod Genet 2021; 38:2519-2541. [PMID: 34110573 PMCID: PMC8581090 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-021-02247-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this review is to gather the available research focusing on female genital tract (FGT) microbiome. Research question focuses in decipher which is the role of FGT microbiota in eubiosis, assisted reproduction techniques (ARTs), and gynaecological disorders, and how microbiome could be utilised to improve reproduction outcomes and to treat fertility issues. METHODS PubMed was searched for articles in English from January 2004 to April 2021 for "genital tract microbiota and reproduction", "endometrial microbiome", "microbiome and reproduction" and "microbiota and infertility". Manual search of the references within the resulting articles was performed. RESULTS Current knowledge confirms predominance of Lactobacillus species, both in vagina and endometrium, whereas higher variability of species is both found in fallopian tubes and ovaries. Microbial signature linked to different disorders such endometriosis, bacterial vaginosis, and gynaecological cancers are described. Broadly, low variability of species and Lactobacillus abundance within the FGT is associated with better reproductive and ART outcomes. CONCLUSION Further research regarding FGT microbiome configuration needs to be done in order to establish a more precise link between microbiota and eubiosis or dysbiosis. Detection of bacterial species related with poor reproductive outcomes, infertility or gynaecological diseases could shape new tools for their diagnosis and treatment, as well as resources to assess the pregnancy prognosis based on endometrial microbiota. Data available suggest future research protocols should be standardised, and it needs to include the interplay among microbiome, virome and mycobiome, and the effect of antibiotics or probiotics on the microbiome shifts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Punzón-Jiménez
- IVI Global Education, Edificio Bipolo, Hospital Universitario La Fe, Fernando Abril Martorell 106, Torre A, Planta 1ª, 46026, Valencia, Spain.
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Universitat de València, Av. Blasco Ibáñez, 15, 46010, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Elena Labarta
- IVIRMA Valencia, Plaza de la Policía Local, 3, 46015, Valencia, Spain
- IVI Foundation - IIS La Fe, Fernando Abril Martorell 106, Torre A, Planta 1ª, 46026, Valencia, Spain
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The reproductive tract microbiota in pregnancy. Biosci Rep 2021; 41:229559. [PMID: 34397086 PMCID: PMC8421591 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20203908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The reproductive tract microbiota plays a crucial role in maintenance of normal pregnancy and influences reproductive outcomes. Microbe–host interactions in pregnancy remain poorly understood and their role in shaping immune modulation is still being uncovered. In this review, we describe the composition of vaginal microbial communities in the reproductive tract and their association with reproductive outcomes. We also consider strategies for manipulating microbiota composition by using live biotherapeutics, selective eradication of pathogenic bacteria with antibiotics and vaginal microbiota transplantation. Finally, future developments in this field and the need for mechanistic studies to explore the functional significance of reproductive tract microbial communities are highlighted.
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Zhou Y, Qi H, Yin N. Adaptations and alterations of maternal microbiota: From physiology to pathology. MEDICINE IN MICROECOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.medmic.2021.100045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
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Tsunematsu Y, Hosomi K, Kunisawa J, Sato M, Shibuya N, Saito E, Murakami H, Yoshikawa Y, Iwashita Y, Miyoshi N, Mutoh M, Ishikawa H, Sugimura H, Miyachi M, Wakabayashi K, Watanabe K. Mother-to-infant transmission of the carcinogenic colibactin-producing bacteria. BMC Microbiol 2021; 21:235. [PMID: 34429063 PMCID: PMC8386082 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-021-02292-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Escherichia coli strain that is known to produce the genotoxic secondary metabolite colibactin is linked to colorectal oncogenesis. Therefore, understanding the properties of such colibactin-positive E. coli and the molecular mechanism of oncogenesis by colibactin may provide us with opportunities for early diagnosis or prevention of colorectal oncogenesis. While there have been major advances in the characterization of colibactin-positive E. coli and the toxin it produces, the infection route of the clb + strain remains poorly characterized. RESULTS We examined infants and their treatments during and post-birth periods to examine potential transmission of colibactin-positive E. coli to infants. Here, analysis of fecal samples of infants over the first month of birth for the presence of a colibactin biosynthetic gene revealed that the bacterium may be transmitted from mother to infant through intimate contacts, such as natural childbirth and breastfeeding, but not through food intake. CONCLUSIONS Our finding suggests that transmission of colibactin-positive E. coli appears to be occurring at the very early stage of life of the newborn and hints at the possibility of developing early preventive measures against colorectal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuta Tsunematsu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Shizuoka, 422-8526, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Koji Hosomi
- Laboratory of Vaccine Materials, Center for Vaccine and Adjuvant Research, Laboratory of Gut Environmental System, Health and Nutrition (NIBIOHN), National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, 567-0085, Ibaraki-city, Japan
| | - Jun Kunisawa
- Laboratory of Vaccine Materials, Center for Vaccine and Adjuvant Research, Laboratory of Gut Environmental System, Health and Nutrition (NIBIOHN), National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, 567-0085, Ibaraki-city, Japan
| | - Michio Sato
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Shizuoka, 422-8526, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Noriko Shibuya
- Department of Pediatrics, Maternal and Child Health Center, Aiiku Clinic, 106-8580, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Emiko Saito
- Department of Human Nutrition, Tokyo Kasei Gakuin University, 194-0292, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Haruka Murakami
- Department of Physical Activity Research, Health and Nutrition (NIBIOHN), National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, 162-8636, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuko Yoshikawa
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, 180-8602, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuji Iwashita
- Department of Tumor Pathology, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 431- 3192, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Noriyuki Miyoshi
- Graduate School of Nutritional and Environmental Sciences, University of Shizuoka, 422-8526, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Michihiro Mutoh
- Department of Molecular-Targeting Cancer Prevention, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, 602-8566, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hideki Ishikawa
- Department of Molecular-Targeting Cancer Prevention, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, 602-8566, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Haruhiko Sugimura
- Department of Tumor Pathology, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 431- 3192, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Motohiko Miyachi
- Department of Physical Activity Research, Health and Nutrition (NIBIOHN), National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, 162-8636, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Keiji Wakabayashi
- Graduate School of Nutritional and Environmental Sciences, University of Shizuoka, 422-8526, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Kenji Watanabe
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Shizuoka, 422-8526, Shizuoka, Japan.
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Pérez-López FR, Vieira-Baptista P, Phillips N, Cohen-Sacher B, Fialho SCAV, Stockdale CK. Clinical manifestations and evaluation of postmenopausal vulvovaginal atrophy. Gynecol Endocrinol 2021; 37:740-745. [PMID: 34036849 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2021.1931100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION It is estimated that 50% of women will suffer a severe form of vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA) related to menopause. Equally, young women may temporarily present this clinical problem while receiving various pharmacological or endocrine treatments or radiotherapy. AIM To determine clinical and diagnostic exams required to confirm the presence of VVA (also referred to as atrophic vaginitis, urogenital atrophy, or genitourinary syndrome of menopause) and rule out other genital or pelvic clinical conditions. MATERIALS AND METHODS Literature review searches were carried out on the main scientific article search engines (PubMed, SciELO, Cochrane) using different clinical terms, treatments or interventions and comorbidity related to VVA. RESULTS The development and severity of VVA depend mainly on the duration of hypoestrogenism. Hypoestrogenism causes changes in the urogenital tissue, generating signs and symptoms, such as dryness, burning, soreness, itching, and irritation of the genital skin. The diagnosis can be made through anamnesis (patient history), questionnaires, physical exam, and, sometimes, complementary exams. Objective vaginal assessment is essential and can be completed with the Vaginal Health Index, the Vaginal Maturation Index, or vaginal pH in the absence of infection or semen. The exclusion of other vulvovaginal organic pathology is essential to reach an accurate diagnosis and provide adequate treatment. CONCLUSIONS The specialist should be able to identify VVA, rule out other pathologies that make a differential diagnosis and conduct proper management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faustino R Pérez-López
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Zaragoza Faculty of Medicine, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Pedro Vieira-Baptista
- Hospital Lusíadas Porto, Porto, Portugal
- LAP, Unilabs, Porto, Portugal
- Lower Genital Tract Unit, Centro Hospitalar de São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Nancy Phillips
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Bina Cohen-Sacher
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Helen Schneider Hospital for Women, Rabin Medical Center, Petach Tikva, Israel
| | - Susana C A V Fialho
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal Fluminense Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Colleen K Stockdale
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, USA
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Nelson J, El-Gendy AO, Mansy MS, Ramadan MA, Aziz RK. The biosurfactants iturin, lichenysin and surfactin, from vaginally isolated lactobacilli, prevent biofilm formation by pathogenic Candida. FEMS Microbiol Lett 2021; 367:5876347. [PMID: 32710776 DOI: 10.1093/femsle/fnaa126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Lactic acid bacteria (LAB), particularly lactobacilli, are major components of the vaginal microbiota. Lactobacilli are facultative anaerobes forming a critical line of defense against pathogenic microorganisms, including those forming biofilms, such as Candida spp. This study aimed to investigate the anti-adhesion capabilities of vaginal Lactobacillus isolates against biofilms formed by pathogenic Candida species. When the extracellular biosurfactant activities of culture supernatants from 120 Lactobacillus isolates were evaluated by the oil-spreading method, clear spreading zones were recognized. Biofilm formation was quantified by the crystal violet plate assay, and different isolates exhibited anti-adhesion activity that ranged from 65.6to 74.4% inhibition against Candida spp. biofilms. Liquid chromatography high-resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (LC-HRESIMS) identified biosurfactants, extracted from three representative Lactobacillus isolates, as surfactin, iturin and lichenysin. Finally, the distribution of representative genes from six different biosynthetic clusters, related to the production of different biosurfactants, was investigated by the polymerase chain reaction. In conclusion, surfactin, iturin and lichenysin were identified for the first time in vaginal Lactobacillus spp. These biosurfactants, which showed strong anti-adherence activity may be used as promising antibiofilm agents in equipment care to prevent vaginal infections by pathogenic Candida spp. with the prospect of reducing nosocomial infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakline Nelson
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Nahda University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Ahmed O El-Gendy
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Moselhy S Mansy
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar, University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed A Ramadan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ramy K Aziz
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt.,The Center for Genome and Microbiome Research, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
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Berard AR, Miller C, Araínga M, Broedlow CA, Noël-Romas L, Schifanella L, Hensley-McBain T, Roederer A, Driscoll C, Coronado E, Manuzak J, McKinnon LR, Villinger FJ, Hope TJ, Burgener AD, Klatt NR. Simian Immunodeficiency Virus Susceptibility, Immunology, and Microbiome in the Female Genital Tract of Adolescent Versus Adult Pigtail Macaques. AIDS Res Hum Retroviruses 2021; 37:510-522. [PMID: 33446027 DOI: 10.1089/aid.2020.0271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
In Sub-Saharan Africa, young women 15-24 years of age account for nearly 30% of all new HIV infections, however, biological and epidemiological factors underlying this disproportionate infection rate are unclear. In this study, we assessed biological contributors of SIV/HIV susceptibility in the female genital tract (FGT) using adolescent (n = 9) and adult (n = 10) pigtail macaques (PTMs) with weekly low-dose intravaginal challenges of SIV. Immunological variables were captured in vaginal tissue of PTMs by flow cytometry and cytokine assays. Vaginal biopsies were profiled by proteomic analysis. The vaginal microbiome was assessed by 16S rRNA sequencing. We were powered to detect a 2.2-fold increase in infection rates between age groups, however, we identified no significant differences in susceptibility. This model cannot capture epidemiological factors or may not best represent biological differences of HIV susceptibility. No immune cell subsets measured were significantly different between groups. Inflammatory marker MCP-1 was significantly higher (adj p = .02), and sCD40L trended higher (adj p = .06) in vaginal cytobrushes of adults. Proteomic analysis of vaginal biopsies showed no significant (adj p < .05) protein or pathway differences between groups. Vaginal microbiomes were not significantly different between groups. No differences were observed between age groups in this PTM model, however, these animals may not reflect biological factors contributing to HIV risk such as those found in their human counterparts. This model is therefore not appropriate to explore human adolescent differences in HIV risk. Young women remain a key population at risk for HIV infection, and there is still a need for comprehensive assessment and intervention strategies for epidemic control of this uniquely vulnerable population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia R Berard
- University of Manitoba, 8664, Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Health, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Charlene Miller
- University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 12235, Pediatrics, Miami, Florida, United States
- University of Washington, 7284, Pharmaceutics, Seattle, Washington, United States
| | - Mariluz Araínga
- University of Louisiana at Lafayette, 4365, New Iberia Research Centre, Lafayette, Louisiana, United States
| | - Courtney Ann Broedlow
- University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 12235, Pediatrics, Miami, Florida, United States
- University of Washington, 7284, Pharmaceutics, Seattle, Washington, United States
| | - Laura Noël-Romas
- University of Manitoba, 8664, Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Health, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Luca Schifanella
- University of Minnesota System, 311816, Department of Medicine, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States
| | - Tiffany Hensley-McBain
- University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 12235, Pediatrics, Miami, Florida, United States
- University of Washington, 7284, Pharmaceutics, Seattle, Washington, United States
| | - Alex Roederer
- University of Washington, 7284, Pharmaceutics, Seattle, Washington, United States
| | - Connor Driscoll
- University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 12235, Pediatrics, Miami, Florida, United States
- University of Washington, 7284, Pharmaceutics, Seattle, Washington, United States
| | - Ernesto Coronado
- University of Washington, 7284, Pharmaceutics, Seattle, Washington, United States
| | - Jennifer Manuzak
- University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 12235, Pediatrics, Miami, Florida, United States
| | - Lyle R McKinnon
- University of Manitoba, 8664, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, 745 Bannatyne Ave, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, R3E 0J9
- Centre for the Aids Programme of Research in South Africa, 470329, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Francois J Villinger
- University of Louisiana at Lafayette, 4365, New Iberia Research Centre, Lafayette, Louisiana, United States
| | - Thomas J Hope
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 12244, Cell and Molecular Biology, Chicago, Illinois, United States,
| | - Adam D Burgener
- Case Western Reserve University, 2546, Center for Global Health and Disease, Cleveland, Ohio, United States
- University of Manitoba, 8664, Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Health, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
- Karolinska Institute, 27106, Department of Medicine Solna, Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Nichole R Klatt
- University of Minnesota System, 311816, Department of Medicine, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States
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Becerra AM, Parra D, Trujillo CG, Azuero J, García S, Daza F, Plata M. Infección de vías urinarias no complicada en mujeres. UROLOGÍA COLOMBIANA 2021. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1721323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Abstract
ResumenLa infección de vías urinarias (IVU) es una patología común, que afecta a gran parte de la población y que generalmente se resuelve con manejo antibiótico. Se compone de una amplia variedad de entidades clínicas que pueden variar desde una cistitis no complicada hasta un shock séptico de origen urinario. Los patógenos etiológicos de la IVU no complicada están ampliamente establecidos y se han mantenido de forma consistente a lo largo del tiempo, siendo la Escherichia coli el microorganismo más predominante. En la actualidad, la resistencia bacteriana a los antibióticos es de gran preocupación y por esa razón, se busca optimizar la terapia antimicrobiana con el fin de disminuir la estancia hospitalaria, la severidad clínica de la infección y los costos a los sistemas de salud. La presente revisión, tiene como objetivo servir como guía para la correcta definición, clasificación, diagnóstico, tratamiento y prevención de la IVU no complicada.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana María Becerra
- Departamento de Urología, Hospital Universitario Fundación Santa Fe de Bogotá, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Los Andes, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Daniel Parra
- Departamento de Urología, Hospital Universitario Fundación Santa Fe de Bogotá, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Los Andes, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Carlos Gustavo Trujillo
- Departamento de Urología, Hospital Universitario Fundación Santa Fe de Bogotá, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Los Andes, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Julián Azuero
- Departamento de Urología, Hospital Universitario Fundación Santa Fe de Bogotá, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Los Andes, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Sandra García
- Departamento de Urología, Hospital Universitario Fundación Santa Fe de Bogotá, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Los Andes, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Fabián Daza
- Departamento de Urología, Hospital Universitario Fundación Santa Fe de Bogotá, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Los Andes, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Mauricio Plata
- Departamento de Urología, Hospital Universitario Fundación Santa Fe de Bogotá, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Los Andes, Bogotá, Colombia
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Carson L, Merkatz R, Martinelli E, Boyd P, Variano B, Sallent T, Malcolm RK. The Vaginal Microbiota, Bacterial Biofilms and Polymeric Drug-Releasing Vaginal Rings. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13050751. [PMID: 34069590 PMCID: PMC8161251 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13050751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The diversity and dynamics of the microbial species populating the human vagina are increasingly understood to play a pivotal role in vaginal health. However, our knowledge about the potential interactions between the vaginal microbiota and vaginally administered drug delivery systems is still rather limited. Several drug-releasing vaginal ring products are currently marketed for hormonal contraception and estrogen replacement therapy, and many others are in preclinical and clinical development for these and other clinical indications. As with all implantable polymeric devices, drug-releasing vaginal rings are subject to surface bacterial adherence and biofilm formation, mostly associated with endogenous microorganisms present in the vagina. Despite more than 50 years since the vaginal ring concept was first described, there has been only limited study and reporting around bacterial adherence and biofilm formation on rings. With increasing interest in the vaginal microbiome and vaginal ring technology, this timely review article provides an overview of: (i) the vaginal microbiota, (ii) biofilm formation in the human vagina and its potential role in vaginal dysbiosis, (iii) mechanistic aspects of biofilm formation on polymeric surfaces, (iv) polymeric materials used in the manufacture of vaginal rings, (v) surface morphology characteristics of rings, (vi) biomass accumulation and biofilm formation on vaginal rings, and (vii) regulatory considerations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise Carson
- School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK; (L.C.); (P.B.)
| | - Ruth Merkatz
- Population Council, One Dag Hammarskjold Plaza, New York, NY 10017, USA; (R.M.); (E.M.); (B.V.); (T.S.)
| | - Elena Martinelli
- Population Council, One Dag Hammarskjold Plaza, New York, NY 10017, USA; (R.M.); (E.M.); (B.V.); (T.S.)
| | - Peter Boyd
- School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK; (L.C.); (P.B.)
| | - Bruce Variano
- Population Council, One Dag Hammarskjold Plaza, New York, NY 10017, USA; (R.M.); (E.M.); (B.V.); (T.S.)
| | - Teresa Sallent
- Population Council, One Dag Hammarskjold Plaza, New York, NY 10017, USA; (R.M.); (E.M.); (B.V.); (T.S.)
| | - Robert Karl Malcolm
- School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK; (L.C.); (P.B.)
- Correspondence:
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48
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Chen L, Zhai Y, Wang Y, Fearon ER, Núñez G, Inohara N, Cho KR. Altering the Microbiome Inhibits Tumorigenesis in a Mouse Model of Oviductal High-Grade Serous Carcinoma. Cancer Res 2021; 81:3309-3318. [PMID: 33863776 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-21-0106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Studies have shown bacteria influence the initiation and progression of cancers arising in sites that harbor rich microbial communities, such as the colon. Little is known about the potential for the microbiome to influence tumorigenesis at sites considered sterile, including the upper female genital tract. The recent identification of distinct bacterial signatures associated with ovarian carcinomas suggests microbiota in the gut, vagina, or elsewhere might contribute to ovarian cancer pathogenesis. Here, we tested whether altering the microbiome affects tumorigenesis in a mouse model of high-grade serous carcinoma (HGSC) based on conditional oviduct-specific inactivation of the Brca1, Trp53, Rb1, and Nf1 tumor suppressor genes. Cohorts of control (n = 20) and antibiotic-treated (n = 23) mice were treated with tamoxifen to induce tumor formation and then monitored for 12 months. The antibiotic cocktail was administered for the first 5 months of the monitoring period in the treatment group. Antibiotic-treated mice had significantly fewer and less advanced tumors than control mice at study endpoint. Antibiotics induced changes in the composition of the intestinal and vaginal microbiota, which were durable in the fecal samples. Clustering analysis showed particular groups of microbiota are associated with the development of HGSC in this model. These findings demonstrate the microbiome influences HGSC pathogenesis in an in vivo model that closely recapitulates the human disease. Because the microbiome can modulate efficacy of cancer chemo- and immunotherapy, our genetically engineered mouse model system may prove useful for testing whether altering the microbiota can improve the heretofore poor response of HGSC to immunotherapies. SIGNIFICANCE: This study provides strong in vivo evidence for a role of the microbiome in ovarian cancer pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lixing Chen
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Department of Gynecology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yali Zhai
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Yisheng Wang
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- OBGYN Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Eric R Fearon
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan Medical School, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- The Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Gabriel Núñez
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- The Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Naohiro Inohara
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan.
| | - Kathleen R Cho
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan.
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- The Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
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49
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Zhang Y, Liu T, Lin J, Yu F, Hu Z. STROBE-sequencing analysis of the vaginal microecology of 4- to 6-year-old girls in Southwest China. Medicine (Baltimore) 2021; 100:e25362. [PMID: 33787640 PMCID: PMC8021340 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000025362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
We investigated the vaginal flora diversity of preschool-aged (ie, 4-6-year-old) girls in southwest China.Fourteen preschool-aged girls were enrolled in this study. The statuses and differences in their vaginal flora were evaluated by Gram staining, bacterial culturing, and sequencing analysis.Gram staining and microbial culturing showed that the main vaginal flora of the preschool-aged girls were Gram-negative bacilli, whereas the main vaginal flora of healthy adult controls were large Gram-positive bacilli such as Lactobacillus crispatus. Shannon and Simpson indexes indicated that the bacterial diversity tended to decrease with age. The species abundance heat map showed that the vaginal microecology of the girls differed slightly at different ages but mainly comprised Pseudomonas, Methylobacterium, Sphingomona,s and Escherichia. The functional abundance heat map indicated that the bacterial functions increased with age.The vaginal microecology of preschool-aged girls differs from that of adults. A comprehensive understanding of the vaginal flora diversity of preschool-aged girls will aid in clinically diagnosing vulvovaginitis in preschool-aged girls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiduo Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Ting Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Jingying Lin
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Fan Yu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Zhengqiang Hu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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50
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Elliyas S, Gaind R, Kanwal SK, Singh S, Arya S. Bacterial Colonization of Vagina in Indian Women During Labor and Its Association With Puerperal and Neonatal Sepsis: A Tertiary Hospital Study. Cureus 2021; 13:e13943. [PMID: 33880281 PMCID: PMC8051276 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.13943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The aim was to find the prevalence of colonization of vagina with aerobic bacteria among low-risk Indian women in active labor and its association with early-onset neonatal sepsis (EONS) and puerperal sepsis. Methods The study was conducted prospectively from October 2018 to March 2020 in a tertiary hospital in New Delhi, India. Low-risk pregnant women (N=920) in active labor with intact membranes were recruited. High vaginal swabs were collected, cultured by standard methods to detect aerobic bacteria. The primary outcomes were the development of puerperal sepsis and EONS. Results In a total of 920 low-risk subjects, vaginal colonization was found in 484 (52.6%), coagulase-negative Staphylococcus being the predominant colonizer (13.2%) followed by Escherichia coli (8.9%). Multigravida women were at 1.4 times higher risk of colonization than primigravida (odds ratio [OR] 1.399; 95% CI 1.064, 1.84). Women whose sample was collected at the first vaginal examination were at 0.34 times lower risk of colonization as compared to women with more than one vaginal examination (OR 0.34; 95% CI 0.241, 0.481). The incidence of colonization increased with progressive vaginal examinations (p<0.001). None of the colonized women and their neonates developed puerperal sepsis or EONS, respectively. Conclusion Vaginal colonization of aerobic bacteria in active labor is not associated with an increased risk of puerperal sepsis or EONS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabeena Elliyas
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, IND
| | - Rajni Gaind
- Department of Microbiology, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, IND
| | - Sandeep Kumar Kanwal
- Department of Pediatrics, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, IND
| | - Sarita Singh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, IND
| | - Sugandha Arya
- Department of Pediatrics, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, IND
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