1
|
Saleh RO, Salahdin OD, Ahmad I, Bansal P, Kaur H, Deorari M, Hjazi A, Abosaoda MK, Mohammed IH, Jawad MA. An updated study of the relationship between bacterial infections and women's immune system, focusing on bacterial compositions with successful pregnancy. J Reprod Immunol 2024; 165:104283. [PMID: 38991487 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2024.104283] [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: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 05/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
Genital tract infections can cause a variety of harmful health outcomes, including endometritis, bacterial vaginosis, and pelvic inflammatory disease, in addition to infertility. Anaerobic bacteria, such as Gardnerella vaginalis, Megasphaera spp., and Atopobium vaginae, are more commonly identified in cases of bacterial vaginosis than lactobacilli. It is unknown how the microorganisms that cause pelvic inflammatory diseases and endometritis enter the uterus. Both prospective and retrospective research have connected pelvic inflammatory disorders, chronic endometritis, and bacterial vaginosis to infertility. Similar to bacterial vaginosis, endometritis-related infertility is probably caused by a variety of factors, such as inflammation, immune system recognition of sperm antigens, bacterial toxins, and a higher risk of STDs. Preconception care for symptomatic women may include diagnosing and treating pelvic inflammatory disease, chronic endometritis, and bacterial vaginosis before conception to optimize the results of both natural and assisted reproduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raed Obaid Saleh
- Department of Medical Laboratory Techniques, Al-Maarif University College, Al-Anbar, Iraq
| | | | - Irfan Ahmad
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Science, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Pooja Bansal
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetics, Jain (Deemed-to-be) University, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560069, India; Department of Allied Healthcare and Sciences, Vivekananda Global University, Jaipur, Rajasthan 303012, India
| | - Harpreet Kaur
- School of Basic & Applied Sciences, Shobhit University, Gangoh, Uttar Pradesh 247341, India; Department of Health & Allied Sciences, Arka Jain University, Jamshedpur, Jharkhand 831001, India
| | - Mahamedha Deorari
- Uttaranchal Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Uttaranchal University, Dehradun, India
| | - Ahmed Hjazi
- Department of Medical Laboratory, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj 11942, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Munther Kadhim Abosaoda
- College of Pharmacy, the Islamic University, Najaf, Iraq; College of Pharmacy, the Islamic University of Al Diwaniyah, Al Diwaniyah, Iraq; College of Pharmacy, the Islamic University of Babylon, Al Diwaniyah, Iraq
| | | | - Mohammed Abed Jawad
- Department of Medical Laboratories Technology, Al-Nisour University College, Baghdad, Iraq
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Xu Z, Li Y, Xu A, Xue L, Soteyome T, Yuan L, Ma Q, Seneviratne G, Hong W, Mao Y, Kjellerup BV, Liu J. Differential alteration in Lactiplantibacillus plantarum subsp. plantarum quorum-sensing systems and reduced Candida albicans yeast survival and virulence gene expression in dual-species interaction. Microbiol Spectr 2024; 12:e0035324. [PMID: 38717160 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00353-24] [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: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans (C. albicans) and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum subsp. plantarum (L. plantarum) are frequently identified in various niches, but their dual-species interaction, especially with C. albicans in yeast form, remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the dual-species interaction of L. plantarum and C. albicans, including proliferation, morphology, and transcriptomes examined by selective agar plate counting, microscopy, and polymicrobial RNA-seq, respectively. Maintaining a stable and unchanged growth rate, L. plantarum inhibited C. albicans yeast cell proliferation but not hyphal growth. Combining optical microscopy and atomic force microscopy, cell-to-cell direct contact and co-aggregation with L. plantarum cells surrounding C. albicans yeast cells were observed during dual-species interaction. Reduced C. albicans yeast cell proliferation in mixed culture was partially due to L. plantarum cell-free culture supernatant but not the acidic environment. Upon polymicrobial transcriptomics analysis, interesting changes were identified in both L. plantarum and C. albicans gene expression. First, two L. plantarum quorum-sensing systems showed contrary changes, with the activation of lamBDCA and repression of luxS. Second, the upregulation of stress response-related genes and downregulation of cell cycle, cell survival, and cell integrity-related pathways were identified in C. albicans, possibly connected to the stress posed by L. plantarum and the reduced yeast cell proliferation. Third, a large scale of pathogenesis and virulence factors were downregulated in C. albicans, indicating the potential interruption of pathogenic activities by L. plantarum. Fourth, partial metabolism and transport pathways were changed in L. plantarum and C. albicans. The information in this study might aid in understanding the behavior of L. plantarum and C. albicans in dual-species interaction.IMPORTANCEThe anti-Candida albicans activity of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum has been explored in the past decades. However, the importance of C. albicans yeast form and the effect of C. albicans on L. plantarum had also been omitted. In this study, the dual-species interaction of L. plantarum and C. albicans was investigated with a focus on the transcriptomes. Cell-to-cell direct contact and co-aggregation with L. plantarum cells surrounding C. albicans yeast cells were observed. Upon polymicrobial transcriptomics analysis, interesting changes were identified, including contrary changes in two L. plantarum quorum-sensing systems and reduced cell survival-related pathways and pathogenesis determinants in C. albicans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhenbo Xu
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Green Processing of Natural Products and Product Safety, Engineering Research Center of Starch and Vegetable Protein Processing Ministry of Education, School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yaqin Li
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Green Processing of Natural Products and Product Safety, Engineering Research Center of Starch and Vegetable Protein Processing Ministry of Education, School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Aijuan Xu
- Guangzhou Hybribio Medical Laboratory, Guangzhou, China
| | - Liang Xue
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Green Processing of Natural Products and Product Safety, Engineering Research Center of Starch and Vegetable Protein Processing Ministry of Education, School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Microbial Safety and Health, State Key Laboratory of Applied Microbiology Southern China, Institute of Microbiology, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, China, Guangzhou, Guangdong
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiomics and Precision Application, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Thanapop Soteyome
- Home Economics Technology, Rajamangala University of Technology Phra Nakhon, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Lei Yuan
- School of Food Science and Engineering, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qin Ma
- Key Laboratory of Functional Foods, Ministry of Agriculture, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Agricultural Products Processing, Sericultural and Agri-Food Research Institute, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | | | - Wei Hong
- GMU-GIBH Joint School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yuzhu Mao
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, USA
| | - Birthe V Kjellerup
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, USA
| | - Junyan Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Lingnan Specialty Food Science and Technology, College of Light Industry and Food Science, Academy of Contemporary Agricultural Engineering Innovations, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Green Processing and Intelligent Manufacturing of Lingnan Specialty Food, Ministry of Agriculture, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Shazadi K, Arshad N, Ambreen HS, Riaz A, Mehreen A. In vivo studies could not confirm in vitro prophylactic synergism between Moringa essential oil and Lactobacillus reuteri (MT180537). BRAZ J BIOL 2024; 84:e254513. [DOI: 10.1590/1519-6984.254513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract Aerobic vaginitis (AV) is a recently defined vaginal recurring infection, which is treated with antibiotics. However, excessive and prolonged use of antibiotics disrupts healthy vaginal microflora and leads to the emergence of antibiotic resistance among pathogens. This situation has directed researchers to explore alternative antimicrobials. The current study describes in vitro and in vivo antimicrobial efficacy and pharmaceutical interactions between plant essential oils (EOs) and five lactic acid bacteria (LABs), isolated from the healthy vagina, against E. faecalis, one of the major etiological agents of AV. In vitro experiments confirm good antimicrobial activity of both plant EOs and cell free supernatant (CFS) from LABs. Based on high antimicrobial efficacy, Moringa essential oil (MO) was selected to determine its nature of interaction with CFS of five LAB strains. Synergism was recorded between MO and CFS of L. reuteri (MT180537). To validate in vitro findings, prophylactic responses of individual and synergistic application of MO and L. reuteri (MT180537) were evaluated in an E. faecalis (MW051601) induced AV murine model. The prophylactic efficacy was evidenced by a reduction in intensity of clinical symptoms, E. faecalis (MW051601) count per vaginal tissue along with a reduction in AV associated changes in histological markers of infection in animals receiving Moringa essential oil and L. reuteri (MT180537) alone or in combination. However, significant synergism between Moringa essential oil and L. reuteri (MT180537) could not be observed. Our data confirms the importance of in vivo experiments in deducing pharmacological interactions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - N. Arshad
- University of the Punjab, Pakistan; The University of Lahore, Pakistan
| | | | - A. Riaz
- The University of Lahore, Pakistan
| | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Moraru A, Dima ȘO, Tritean N, Oprița EI, Prelipcean AM, Trică B, Oancea A, Moraru I, Constantinescu-Aruxandei D, Oancea F. Bioactive-Loaded Hydrogels Based on Bacterial Nanocellulose, Chitosan, and Poloxamer for Rebalancing Vaginal Microbiota. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1671. [PMID: 38139798 PMCID: PMC10748236 DOI: 10.3390/ph16121671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Biocompatible drug-delivery systems for soft tissue applications are of high interest for the medical and pharmaceutical fields. The subject of this research is the development of hydrogels loaded with bioactive compounds (inulin, thyme essential oil, hydro-glycero-alcoholic extract of Vitis vinifera, Opuntia ficus-indica powder, lactic acid, citric acid) in order to support the vaginal microbiota homeostasis. The nanofibrillar phyto-hydrogel systems developed using the biocompatible polymers chitosan (CS), never-dried bacterial nanocellulose (NDBNC), and Poloxamer 407 (PX) incorporated the water-soluble bioactive components in the NDBNC hydrophilic fraction and the hydrophobic components in the hydrophobic core of the PX fraction. Two NDBNC-PX hydrogels and one NDBNC-PX-CS hydrogel were structurally and physical-chemically characterized using Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and rheology. The hydrogels were also evaluated in terms of thermo-responsive properties, mucoadhesion, biocompatibility, and prebiotic and antimicrobial effects. The mucin binding efficiency of hydrogel base systems was determined by the periodic acid/Schiff base (PAS) assay. Biocompatibility of hydrogel systems was determined by the MTT test using mouse fibroblasts. The prebiotic activity was determined using the probiotic strains Limosilactobacillus reuteri and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum subsp. plantarum. Antimicrobial activity was also assessed using relevant microbial strains, respectively, E. coli and C. albicans. TEM evidenced PX micelles of around 20 nm on NDBNC nanofibrils. The FTIR and XRD analyses revealed that the binary hydrogels are dominated by PX signals, and that the ternary hydrogel is dominated by CS, with additional particular fingerprints for the biocompounds and the hydrogel interaction with mucin. Rheology evidenced the gel transition temperatures of 18-22 °C for the binary hydrogels with thixotropic behavior and, respectively, no gel transition, with rheopectic behavior for the ternary hydrogel. The adhesion energies of the binary and ternary hydrogels were evaluated to be around 1.2 J/m2 and 9.1 J/m2, respectively. The hydrogels exhibited a high degree of biocompatibility, with the potential to support cell proliferation and also to promote the growth of lactobacilli. The hydrogel systems also presented significant antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Angela Moraru
- Faculty of Biotechnologies, University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Bucharest, Bd. Mărăști Nr. 59, Sector 1, 011464 Bucharest, Romania;
- S.C. Laboratoarele Medica Srl, Strada Frasinului Nr. 11, 075100 Otopeni, Romania;
| | - Ștefan-Ovidiu Dima
- Polymers and Bioresources Departments, National Institute for Research and Development in Chemistry and Petrochemistry—ICECHIM, Splaiul Independentei Nr. 202, Sector 6, 060021 Bucharest, Romania; (Ș.-O.D.); (N.T.); (B.T.)
| | - Naomi Tritean
- Polymers and Bioresources Departments, National Institute for Research and Development in Chemistry and Petrochemistry—ICECHIM, Splaiul Independentei Nr. 202, Sector 6, 060021 Bucharest, Romania; (Ș.-O.D.); (N.T.); (B.T.)
- Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Splaiul Independentei Nr. 91-95, Sector 5, 050095 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Elena-Iulia Oprița
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, National Institute of Research and Development for Biological Sciences, Splaiul Independentei Nr. 296, Sector 6, 060031 Bucharest, Romania; (E.-I.O.); (A.-M.P.); (A.O.)
| | - Ana-Maria Prelipcean
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, National Institute of Research and Development for Biological Sciences, Splaiul Independentei Nr. 296, Sector 6, 060031 Bucharest, Romania; (E.-I.O.); (A.-M.P.); (A.O.)
| | - Bogdan Trică
- Polymers and Bioresources Departments, National Institute for Research and Development in Chemistry and Petrochemistry—ICECHIM, Splaiul Independentei Nr. 202, Sector 6, 060021 Bucharest, Romania; (Ș.-O.D.); (N.T.); (B.T.)
| | - Anca Oancea
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, National Institute of Research and Development for Biological Sciences, Splaiul Independentei Nr. 296, Sector 6, 060031 Bucharest, Romania; (E.-I.O.); (A.-M.P.); (A.O.)
| | - Ionuț Moraru
- S.C. Laboratoarele Medica Srl, Strada Frasinului Nr. 11, 075100 Otopeni, Romania;
| | - Diana Constantinescu-Aruxandei
- Polymers and Bioresources Departments, National Institute for Research and Development in Chemistry and Petrochemistry—ICECHIM, Splaiul Independentei Nr. 202, Sector 6, 060021 Bucharest, Romania; (Ș.-O.D.); (N.T.); (B.T.)
| | - Florin Oancea
- Faculty of Biotechnologies, University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Bucharest, Bd. Mărăști Nr. 59, Sector 1, 011464 Bucharest, Romania;
- Polymers and Bioresources Departments, National Institute for Research and Development in Chemistry and Petrochemistry—ICECHIM, Splaiul Independentei Nr. 202, Sector 6, 060021 Bucharest, Romania; (Ș.-O.D.); (N.T.); (B.T.)
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Choudhary P, Magloire D, Hamonic G, Wilson HL. Immune responses in the uterine mucosa: clues for vaccine development in pigs. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1171212. [PMID: 37483639 PMCID: PMC10361056 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1171212] [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: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The immune system in the upper reproductive tract (URT) protects against sexually transmitted pathogens, while at the same time providing immune tolerance responses against allogenic sperm and the developing fetus. The uterine environment is also responsive to hormonal variations during the estrus cycle, although the most likely timing of exposure to pathogens is during estrus and breeding when the cervix is semi-permissive. The goal for intrauterine immunization would be to induce local or systemic immunity and/or to promote colostral/lactogenic immunity that will passively protect suckling offspring. The developing fetus is not the vaccine target. This minireview article focuses on the immune response induced in the pig uterus (uterine body and uterine horns) with some comparative references to other livestock species, mice, and humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pooja Choudhary
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO), University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Donaldson Magloire
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO), University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Glenn Hamonic
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO), University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Heather L. Wilson
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO), University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Colella M, Topi S, Palmirotta R, D'Agostino D, Charitos IA, Lovero R, Santacroce L. An Overview of the Microbiota of the Human Urinary Tract in Health and Disease: Current Issues and Perspectives. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1486. [PMID: 37511861 PMCID: PMC10381901 DOI: 10.3390/life13071486] [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: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
This article is intended to deepen our knowledge to date regarding the functions of the resident microbiota/microbiome in the urinary system for human health and disease. First, we sought to report the general characteristics (composition and stability) of the normal urinary system microbiota in the different anatomical sites in relation to some factors such as the effect of age, gender and diet, analyzing in detail the functions and the composition of the microbiota in the light of current knowledge. Several pieces of evidence suggest the importance of preserving the micro-ecosystem of the urinary system, and in some cases their relationship with diseases is important for maintaining human health is well understood. The female and male reproductive microbiota have mainly been studied over the past decade. In the past, the arrest was thought to have taken place in a sterile environment. Microorganisms of the microbiota form biofilms, three-dimensional structures, that differ in the reproductive organs and interact with both gametes and the embryo as well as with maternal tissues. These biofilms from the reproductive system also interact with others, such as that of the gastrointestinal tract. Reduction in its diversity intestinal microbiota can disrupt estrogen metabolism and affect the reproductive microbiota. It is therefore understood that its quantitative and qualitative identification is important for microbiota, but also the study of the structures formed by the microorganisms. A dysbiosis with local or systemic causes can lead to serious diseases. The role of probiotics in maintaining microbial population harmony (eubiosis) and preventing certain pathologies of the urinary and reproductive system was also investigated. A negative variation in the qualitative and quantitative composition of certain strains of microorganisms (dysbiosis) due to local or systemic causes can even lead to serious diseases. The role of probiotics in maintaining the healthy balance of microorganism populations (eubiosis), and thus in the prevention of certain pathologies of the urinary and reproductive system, has also been studied.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marica Colella
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza G. Cesare, 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Skender Topi
- Department of Clinical Disciplines, School of Technical Medical Sciences, University of Elbasan "A. Xhuvani", 3001 Elbasan, Albania
| | - Raffaele Palmirotta
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza G. Cesare, 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Donato D'Agostino
- Department of Clinical Disciplines, School of Technical Medical Sciences, University of Elbasan "A. Xhuvani", 3001 Elbasan, Albania
| | - Ioannis Alexandros Charitos
- Respiratory Rehabilitation Unit, Clinical Scientific Institutes Maugeri (IRCCS), Section of Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Roberto Lovero
- AOU Policlinico Consorziale di Bari-Ospedale Giovanni XXIII, Clinical Pathology Unit, Policlinico University Hospital of Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Luigi Santacroce
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza G. Cesare, 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
- Department of Clinical Disciplines, School of Technical Medical Sciences, University of Elbasan "A. Xhuvani", 3001 Elbasan, Albania
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Cocomazzi G, De Stefani S, Del Pup L, Palini S, Buccheri M, Primiterra M, Sciannamè N, Faioli R, Maglione A, Baldini GM, Baldini D, Pazienza V. The Impact of the Female Genital Microbiota on the Outcome of Assisted Reproduction Treatments. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1443. [PMID: 37374945 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11061443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The vaginal microbiota plays a critical role in the health of the female genital tract, and its composition contributes to gynecological disorders and infertility. Lactobacilli are the dominant species in the female genital tract: their production of lactic acid, hydrogen peroxide, and bacteriocins prevents the invasion and growth of pathogenic microorganisms. Several factors such as hormonal changes, age of reproduction, sexual practices, menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and antimicrobial drugs use can cause imbalance and dysbiosis of the vaginal microbiota. This review aims to highlight the impact of the vaginal microbiota in Assisted Reproductive Technology techniques (ART) and it examines the factors that influence the vaginal microbiota, the consequences of dysbiosis, and potential interventions to restore a healthy female genital tract.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Cocomazzi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Fondazione IRCCS-Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | | | - Lino Del Pup
- Gynecological Endocrinology and Fertility, University Sanitary Agency Friuli Central (ASUFC), Via Pozzuolo, 330, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Simone Palini
- Ospedale "Cervesi" di Cattolica-AUSL Romagna Via Ludwig Van Beethoven, 1, 47841 Cattolica, Italy
| | - Matteo Buccheri
- Instituto Bernabeu Via Castellana, 88, 30030 Martellago, Italy
| | | | - Natale Sciannamè
- Gynecology and Obstetrics, IRCCS "Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza", 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Raffaele Faioli
- Gynecology and Obstetrics, IRCCS "Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza", 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Annamaria Maglione
- Gynecology and Obstetrics, IRCCS "Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza", 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Giorgio Maria Baldini
- IVF Center, Momò Fertilife, 76011 Bisceglie Via Cala dell'Arciprete, 76011 Bisceglie, Italy
| | - Domenico Baldini
- IVF Center, Momò Fertilife, 76011 Bisceglie Via Cala dell'Arciprete, 76011 Bisceglie, Italy
| | - Valerio Pazienza
- Division of Gastroenterology, Fondazione IRCCS-Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Lu C, Wang H, Yang J, Zhang X, Chen Y, Feng R, Qian Y. Changes in Vaginal Microbiome Diversity in Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:755741. [PMID: 34804995 PMCID: PMC8596286 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.755741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine disorder that affects women. It can be accompanied by many clinical manifestations that can vary between individuals. Previous studies have found that there are specific changes in the intestinal flora of PCOS patients, and interventions to modify the intestinal flora can significantly improve the symptoms of PCOS. Women with PCOS have a higher incidence of vaginitis compared to healthy women. Few studies to-date have focused on investigating vaginal flora. Here, we aimed to explore distribution changes of the vaginal microbiome in PCOS patients. We recruited 42 PCOS patients (T-PCOS) and 24 healthy controls (T-control). 16s rRNA gene sequencing was used to sequence their vaginal microbiome. Normally, Lactobacillus was dominated in vaginal. Lactobacillus-dominated-type vaginal microbiome in T-PCOS and T-control (L-PCOS and L-control) and non-Lactobacillus-dominated-type vaginal microbiome in T-PCOS and T-control (N-PCOS and N-control) were analyzed separately. A total of 655 operational taxonomic units were detected in this sequencing, including 306 unique to T-PCOS, 202 unique to T-control, and 147 common between the two groups. At the genus level, Lactobacillus accounted for more than 70% of the total microbiome. Observed species (P = 0.021), Chao1 index (P = 0.020), and ACE index (P = 0.023) decreased significantly in L-PCOS. Principal component analysis showed no statistically significant differences among the subgroups. There were significant statistical differences in principal coordinate analysis in the Jaccard distance between the T-PCOS and T-control groups and between the L-PCOS and L-control groups. Linear discriminant analysis effect size found that Enterococcus and Actinomycetes were significantly different in the T-PCOS group. Atopobium and Actinomyces were statistically significantly different in patients with L-PCOS and N-PCOS group, respectively. Environmental factor analysis found that Ezakiella was significantly negatively correlated with age, while Streptococcus was significantly negatively correlated with follicle stimulating hormone. There were statistically significant differences between PCOS patients and healthy women in the vaginal microbiome, regardless of the abundance of Lactobacillus. Alpha diversity of vaginal microbiome decreased markedly in PCOS patients when it was dominated by Lactobacillus spp. Actinomyces could be a potential biomarker to identify PCOS. Streptococcus may have an impact on the pathological changes in PCOS by affecting the female reproductive endocrine environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chaoyi Lu
- Reproductive Medical Center of Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jihong Yang
- Reproductive Medical Center of Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xinyue Zhang
- Reproductive Medical Center of Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yao Chen
- Reproductive Medical Center of Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ruizhi Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yun Qian
- Reproductive Medical Center of Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
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.
Collapse
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.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Novel diagnostic options for endometriosis - Based on the glycome and microbiome. J Adv Res 2021; 33:167-181. [PMID: 34603787 PMCID: PMC8463906 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2021.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Revised: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 01/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Endometriosis is a chronic gynaecological disease whose aetiology is still unknown. Despite its prevalence among women of reproductive age, the pathology of the disease has not yet been elucidated and only symptomatic treatment is available. Endometriosis has high latency and diagnostic methods are both limited and invasive. Aim of review The aim of this review is to summarise minimally invasive or non-invasive diagnostic methods for endometriosis and their diagnostic efficiencies. Furthermore, we discuss the identification and diagnostic potential of novel disease biomarkers of microbial or glycan origin. Key scientific concepts of review Great efforts have been made to develop minimally invasive or non-invasive diagnostic methods in endometriosis. The problem with most potential biomarker candidates is that they have high accuracy only in cases of severe disease. Therefore, it is necessary to examine other potential biomarkers more closely. Associations between gastrointestinal and genital tract microbial health and endometriosis have been identified. For instance, irritable bowel syndrome is more common in women with endometriosis, and hormonal imbalance has a negative impact on the microbiome of both the genital tract and the gastrointestinal system. Further interrogation of these associations may have potential diagnostic significance and may identify novel therapeutic avenues. Glycomics may also be a potent source of biomarkers of endometriosis, with a number of glyco-biomarkers already approved by the FDA. Endometriosis-associated microbial and glycomic profiles may represent viable targets for development of innovative diagnostics in this debilitating disease.
Collapse
|
11
|
Abstract
Ureaplasma species are increasingly recognized as relevant pathogens in prenatal, perinatal and postnatal morbidity. They are commonly found as commensals on the mucous membranes of the lower urogenital tract of pregnant women, but when ascending, they can cause bacterial vaginosis, chorioamnionitis, premature birth and postnatal morbidities such as bronchopulmonary dysplasia, and early-onset neonatal sepsis and meningitis. The detection of Ureaplasma species is challenging and is not covered by routine diagnostics, and current empiric antibiotic treatment in neonates suspected of infection is not directed against Ureaplasma species. The aim of this review is to discuss the pathophysiology of Ureaplasma infections, the clinical consequences and the current difficulties in diagnosis and treatment by providing an overview of the current literature.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kim Stol
- From the Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Immunology and Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics
| | - Jop Jans
- Department of Pediatrics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lisa Ott de Bruin
- Department of Pediatrics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Wendy Unger
- Laboratory of Pediatrics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Annemarie van Rossum
- From the Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Immunology and Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Effect of 17β-estradiol on a human vaginal Lactobacillus crispatus strain. Sci Rep 2021; 11:7133. [PMID: 33785829 PMCID: PMC8010061 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-86628-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Lactobacilli and estrogens play essential roles in vaginal homeostasis. We investigated the potential direct effect of 17β-estradiol on a vaginal strain of Lactobacillus crispatus, the major bacterial species of the vaginal microbiota. 17β-estradiol (10-6 to 10-10 M) had no effect on L. crispatus growth, but markedly affected the membrane dynamics of this bacterium. This effect appeared consistent with a signal transduction process. The surface polarity and aggregation potential of the bacterium were unaffected by exposure to 17β-estradiol, but its mean size was significantly reduced. 17β-estradiol also promoted biosurfactant production by L. crispatus and adhesion to vaginal VK2/E6E7 cells, but had little effect on bacterial biofilm formation activity. Bioinformatic analysis of L. crispatus identified a membrane lipid raft-associated stomatin/prohibitin/flotillin/HflK domain containing protein as a potential 17β-estradiol binding site. Overall, our results reveal direct effects of 17β-estradiol on L. crispatus. These effects are of potential importance in the physiology of the vaginal environment, through the promotion of lactobacillus adhesion to the mucosa and protection against pathogens.
Collapse
|
13
|
Araujo VHS, de Souza MPC, Carvalho GC, Duarte JL, Chorilli M. Chitosan-based systems aimed at local application for vaginal infections. Carbohydr Polym 2021; 261:117919. [PMID: 33766328 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2021.117919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Revised: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Vaginal administration is a promising route for the local treatment of infectious vaginal diseases since it can bypass the first-pass metabolism, drug interactions, and adverse effects. However, the commercial products currently available for topical vulvovaginal treatment have low acceptability and do not adequately explore this route. Mucoadhesive systems can optimize the efficacy of drugs administered by this route to increase the retention time of the drug in the vaginal environment. Several polymers are used to develop mucoadhesive systems, among them chitosan, a natural polymer that is highly biocompatible and technologically versatile. Thus, the present review aimed to analyze the studies that used chitosan to develop mucoadhesive systems for the treatment of local vaginal infections. These studies demonstrated that chitosan as a component of mucoadhesive drug delivery systems (DDS) is a promising device for the treatment of vaginal infectious diseases, due to the intrinsic antimicrobial activity of this biopolymer and because it does not interfere with the effectiveness of the drugs used for the treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jonatas Lobato Duarte
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University, Araraquara, SP, Brazil
| | - Marlus Chorilli
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University, Araraquara, SP, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Heo G, Lee Y, Im E. Interplay between the Gut Microbiota and Inflammatory Mediators in the Development of Colorectal Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:734. [PMID: 33578830 PMCID: PMC7916585 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13040734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory mediators modulate inflammatory pathways during the development of colorectal cancer. Inflammatory mediators secreted by both immune and tumor cells can influence carcinogenesis, progression, and tumor metastasis. The gut microbiota, which colonize the entire intestinal tract, especially the colon, are closely linked to colorectal cancer through an association with inflammatory mediators such as tumor necrosis factor, nuclear factor kappa B, interleukins, and interferons. This association may be a potential therapeutic target, since therapeutic interventions targeting the gut microbiota have been actively investigated in both the laboratory and in clinics and include fecal microbiota transplantation and probiotics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Eunok Im
- College of Pharmacy, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea; (G.H.); (Y.L.)
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Campisciano G, Zanotta N, Petix V, Giangreco M, Ricci G, Maso G, Comar M, De Seta F. Vaginal Dysbiosis and Partial Bacterial Vaginosis: The Interpretation of the "Grey Zones" of Clinical Practice. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11020191. [PMID: 33525708 PMCID: PMC7911636 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11020191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) affects one-third of reproductive age women, increasing the risk of acquiring sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and posing a risk for reproductive health. The current diagnosis with Gram stain (Nugent Score) identifies a transitional stage named partial BV or intermediate microbiota, raising the problem of how to clinically handle it. We retrospectively analyzed cervicovaginal swabs from 985 immunocompetent non-pregnant symptomaticspp. women (vaginal discharge, burning, itching) by Nugent score and qPCR for BV, aerobic or fungal vaginitis, and STIs (Mycoplasmas spp., Chlamydia t., Trichomonas v., and Neisseria g.). Nugent scores 0–3 and 7–10 were confirmed in 99.3% and 89.7% cases, respectively, by qPCR. Among Nugent scores 4–6 (partial BV), qPCR identified 46.1% of BV cases, with 37.3% of cases negative for BV, and only 16.7% of partial BV. Gram staining and qPCR were discordant (p value = 0.0001) mainly in the partial BV. Among the qPCR BV cases, the presence of aerobic vaginitis and STIs was identified, with a significant association (p < 0.0001) between the STIs and partial BV/overt BV. qPCR is more informative and accurate, and its use as an alternative or in combination with Gram staining could help clinicians in having an overview of the complex vaginal microbiota and in the interpretation of partial BV that can correspond to vaginitis and/or STIs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppina Campisciano
- Advanced Laboratory of Translational Microbiology, Institute for Maternal and Child Health—IRCCS “Burlo Garofolo”—Via dell’Istria 65, 34137 Trieste, Italy; (G.C.); (N.Z.); (V.P.)
| | - Nunzia Zanotta
- Advanced Laboratory of Translational Microbiology, Institute for Maternal and Child Health—IRCCS “Burlo Garofolo”—Via dell’Istria 65, 34137 Trieste, Italy; (G.C.); (N.Z.); (V.P.)
| | - Vincenzo Petix
- Advanced Laboratory of Translational Microbiology, Institute for Maternal and Child Health—IRCCS “Burlo Garofolo”—Via dell’Istria 65, 34137 Trieste, Italy; (G.C.); (N.Z.); (V.P.)
| | - Manuela Giangreco
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health—IRCCS “Burlo Garofolo”—Via dell’Istria 65/1, 34137 Trieste, Italy;
| | - Giuseppe Ricci
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute for Maternal and Child Health—IRCCS “Burlo Garofolo”—Via dell’Istria 65, 34137 Trieste, Italy; (G.R.); (G.M.); (F.D.S.)
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Strada di Fiume, 447, 34149 Trieste, Italy
| | - Gianpaolo Maso
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute for Maternal and Child Health—IRCCS “Burlo Garofolo”—Via dell’Istria 65, 34137 Trieste, Italy; (G.R.); (G.M.); (F.D.S.)
| | - Manola Comar
- Advanced Laboratory of Translational Microbiology, Institute for Maternal and Child Health—IRCCS “Burlo Garofolo”—Via dell’Istria 65, 34137 Trieste, Italy; (G.C.); (N.Z.); (V.P.)
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Strada di Fiume, 447, 34149 Trieste, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-040-3785527
| | - Francesco De Seta
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute for Maternal and Child Health—IRCCS “Burlo Garofolo”—Via dell’Istria 65, 34137 Trieste, Italy; (G.R.); (G.M.); (F.D.S.)
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Strada di Fiume, 447, 34149 Trieste, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Sabihi M, Böttcher M, Pelczar P, Huber S. Microbiota-Dependent Effects of IL-22. Cells 2020; 9:E2205. [PMID: 33003458 PMCID: PMC7599675 DOI: 10.3390/cells9102205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cytokines are important contributors to immune responses against microbial and environmental threats and are of particular importance at epithelial barriers. These interfaces are continuously exposed to external factors and thus require immune components to both protect the host from pathogen invasion and to regulate overt inflammation. Recently, substantial efforts have been devoted to understanding how cytokines act on certain cells at barrier sites, and why the dysregulation of immune responses may lead to pathogenesis. In particular, the cytokine IL-22 is involved in preserving an intact epithelium, maintaining a balanced microbiota and a functioning defense system against external threats. However, a tight regulation of IL-22 is generally needed, since uncontrolled IL-22 production can lead to the progression of autoimmunity and cancer. Our aim in this review is to summarize novel findings on IL-22 and its interactions with specific microbial stimuli, and subsequently, to understand their contributions to the function of IL-22 and the clinical outcome. We particularly focus on understanding the detrimental effects of dysregulated control of IL-22 in certain disease contexts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Samuel Huber
- I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany; (M.S.); (M.B.); (P.P.)
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Tu Y, Zheng G, Ding G, Wu Y, Xi J, Ge Y, Gu H, Wang Y, Sheng J, Liu X, Jin L, Huang H. Comparative Analysis of Lower Genital Tract Microbiome Between PCOS and Healthy Women. Front Physiol 2020; 11:1108. [PMID: 33013474 PMCID: PMC7506141 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2020.01108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) often have a history of infertility and poor pregnancy outcome. The character of the lower genital tract (LGT) microbiome of these patients is still unknown. We collected both vaginal and cervical canal swabs from 47 PCOS patients (diagnosed by the Rotterdam Criteria) and 50 healthy reproductive-aged controls in this study. Variable regions 3–4 (V3–4) were sequenced and analyzed. Operational taxonomic unit (OTU) abundance was noted for all samples. Taxa that discriminated between PCOS and healthy women was calculated by linear discriminant analysis effect size (LEFSe). Results from 97 paired vaginal and cervical canal samples collected from 97 women [mean age 30 (±4 years)] were available for analysis. Using the Rotterdam Criteria, 47 women were diagnosed with PCOS (PCOS, n = 47; control, n = 50). There was no significant difference between cervical canal microbiome and vaginal microbiome from the same individual, however, Lactobacillus spp. was less abundant in both vaginal and cervical canal microbiome of PCOS patients. Several non-Lactobacillus taxa including Gardnerella_vaginalis_00703mash, Prevotella_9_other, and Mycoplasma hominis, were more abundant in the LGT microbiota of PCOS patients. There is a difference between the microorganism in the LGT of patients with PCOS and healthy reproductive-aged women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yaoyao Tu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Guangyong Zheng
- Bio-Med Big Data Center, CAS Key Laboratory of Computational Biology, CAS-MPG Partner Institute for Computational Biology, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Guolian Ding
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanting Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Ji Xi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yingzhou Ge
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Hangchao Gu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Yingyu Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianzhong Sheng
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics, Ministry of Education, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xinmei Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Li Jin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Hefeng Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Odogwu NM, Olayemi OO, Omigbodun AO. The vaginal microbiome of sub-Saharan African women: revealing important gaps in the era of next-generation sequencing. PeerJ 2020; 8:e9684. [PMID: 32879794 PMCID: PMC7441984 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.9684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Accurate characterization of the vaginal microbiome remains a fundamental goal of the Human Microbiome project (HMP). For over a decade, this goal has been made possible deploying high-throughput next generation sequencing technologies (NGS), which indeed has revolutionized medical research and enabled large-scale genomic studies. The 16S rRNA marker-gene survey is the most commonly explored approach for vaginal microbial community studies. With this approach, prior studies have elucidated substantial variations in the vaginal microbiome of women from different ethnicities. This review provides a comprehensive account of studies that have deployed this approach to describe the vaginal microbiota of African women in health and disease. On the basis of published data, the few studies reported from the African population are mainly in non-pregnant post pubertal women and calls for more detailed studies in pregnant and postnatal cohorts. We provide insight on the use of more sophisticated cutting-edge technologies in characterizing the vaginal microbiome. These technologies offer high-resolution detection of vaginal microbiome variations and community functional capabilities, which can shed light into several discrepancies observed in the vaginal microbiota of African women in an African population versus women of African descent in the diaspora.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nkechi Martina Odogwu
- Pan African University of Life and Earth Science Institute, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University College Hospital, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo, Nigeria
| | - Oladapo O. Olayemi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University College Hospital, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo, Nigeria
| | - Akinyinka O. Omigbodun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University College Hospital, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo, Nigeria
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Pek JH, Gan MY, Yap BJ, Seethor STT, Greenberg RG, Hornik CPV, Tan B, Lee JH, Chong SL. Contemporary trends in global mortality of sepsis among young infants less than 90 days old: protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e038815. [PMID: 32737098 PMCID: PMC7398098 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-038815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Neonatal sepsis has a high mortality rate that varies across different populations. We aim to perform a contemporary global evidence synthesis to determine the case fatality rates of neonatal sepsis, in order to better delineate this public health urgency and inform strategies to reduce fatality in this high-risk population. METHODS AND ANALYSIS We will search PubMed, Cochrane Central, Embase and Web of Science for articles in English language published between January 2010 and December 2019. All clinical trials and observational studies involving infants less than 90 days old with a clinical diagnosis of sepsis and reported case fatality rate will be included. Two independent reviewers will screen the studies and extract data on study variables chosen a priori. Quality of evidence and risk of bias will be assessed using Cochrane Collaboration's tool and ROBINS-I. Results will be synthesised qualitatively and pooled for meta-analysis. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION No formal ethical approval is required as there is no collection of primary data. This systematic review and meta-analysis will be disseminated through conference meetings and peer-reviewed publications. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42020164321.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jen Heng Pek
- Emergency Medicine, Sengkang General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Ming Ying Gan
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Bei Jun Yap
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Rachel G Greenberg
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Christoph Paul Vincent Hornik
- Division of Critical Care Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Bobby Tan
- Department of Paediatrics, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore
| | - Jan Hau Lee
- Children's Intensive Care Unit, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore
| | - Shu-Ling Chong
- Department of Emergency Medicine, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Tan S, Ge W, Wang J, Liu W, Zhao Y, Shen W, Li L. Zearalenone-induced aberration in the composition of the gut microbiome and function impacts the ovary reserve. CHEMOSPHERE 2020; 244:125493. [PMID: 32050327 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2019.125493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2019] [Revised: 11/20/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Zearalenone (ZEA), as a contaminant commonly found in our daily diet, has been widely studied for its toxicity. However, the exact mechanism underlying ZEA induced reproduction disorders remains unclear. Our study aimed to elucidate the underlying relationship between aberrations in the gut microbiota and the degeneration of the ovarian reserve following exposure to ZEA. Four-week-old mice were treated with different doses (0, 20, 40 μg/kg bw/day) of ZEA for 2 weeks and it was found that the primordial follicles were dramatically decreased when compared to untreated controls. Moreover, we applied metagenomic shotgun sequencing to investigate the effects of ZEA exposure on the population composition and function of gut microbiota. The results showed that the abundance of three susceptible bacterial strains, parabacteroides, bacteroides and lachnospiraceae were increased in a dose-dependent manner after ZEA exposure, whereas the bacterial glycerophospholipid metabolism pathway was greatly suppressed. Of note, utilizing LC/MS we found lysophosphatidylcholines (LPCs), important metabolites in the process of glycerophospholipid metabolism, were markedly decreased in the plasma of the ZEA treated mice. In conclusion, our findings here provide evidences that the dysfunction in gut microbiome after ZEA exposure may affect the ovarian reserve.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shaojing Tan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Wei Ge
- College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Junjie Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Wenxiang Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Yong Zhao
- College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Wei Shen
- College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Lan Li
- College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Willems HME, Ahmed SS, Liu J, Xu Z, Peters BM. Vulvovaginal Candidiasis: A Current Understanding and Burning Questions. J Fungi (Basel) 2020; 6:jof6010027. [PMID: 32106438 PMCID: PMC7151053 DOI: 10.3390/jof6010027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans, along with other closely related Candida species, are the primary causative agents of vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC)-a multifactorial infectious disease of the lower female reproductive tract resulting in pathologic inflammation. Unlike other forms of candidiasis, VVC is a disease of immunocompetent and otherwise healthy women, most predominant during their child-bearing years. While VVC is non-lethal, its high global incidence and profound negative impact on quality-of-life necessitates further understanding of the host and fungal factors that drive disease pathogenesis. In this review, we cover the current state of our understanding of the epidemiology, host response, fungal pathogenicity mechanisms, impact of the microbiome, and novel approaches to treatment of this most prevalent human candidal infection. We also offer insight into the latest advancements in the VVC field and identify important questions that still remain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hubertine M. E. Willems
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Translational Science, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA; (H.M.E.W.); (J.L.); (Z.X.)
| | - Salman S. Ahmed
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510641, China;
| | - Junyan Liu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Translational Science, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA; (H.M.E.W.); (J.L.); (Z.X.)
| | - Zhenbo Xu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Translational Science, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA; (H.M.E.W.); (J.L.); (Z.X.)
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510641, China;
| | - Brian M. Peters
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Translational Science, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA; (H.M.E.W.); (J.L.); (Z.X.)
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Does Aerobic Vaginitis Have Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes? Prospective Observational Study. Infect Dis Obstet Gynecol 2020; 2020:5842150. [PMID: 32395067 PMCID: PMC7201818 DOI: 10.1155/2020/5842150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Revised: 11/02/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Aerobic vaginitis (AV) is an aberration within the balanced vaginal microbiota. Only few reports have documented the adverse pregnancy outcomes related to AV. Nonetheless, the exact role of AV in pregnancy and the potential benefit of its screening need further study. Our goal was to evaluate the association between aerobic vaginitis (AV) in late pregnancy and maternal and neonatal outcomes. Methods In this prospective observational study, a total of 600 singleton pregnant women with intact fetal membranes at a gestational age of 34-36 weeks were recruited (one hundred women with AV and 500 pregnant women without AV). The study protocol excluded patients with other forms of vaginal infection. Pregnancy outcomes were traced and documented. The primary outcome was the association between AV and preterm labor. The current study compared the maternal and neonatal outcomes among pregnant women with and without AV in unadjusted and adjusted analyses with the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) reported. Results There was an association between AV and with preterm birth (adjusted OR 3.06, 95% CI 1.58-5.95) and prelabor rupture of membranes (adjusted OR 6.17, 95% CI 3.24-11.7). For neonatal outcomes, AV was associated with a higher incidence of neonatal ICU admission (adjusted OR 2.19, 95% CI 1.1-4.34). Severe forms of AV significantly increased the incidence of PTB (p = 0.0014) and PROM (p = 0.0094) when compared to less severe forms of AV. Conclusion AV is common in late pregnancy and is linked to a diversity of adversative pregnancy outcomes including preterm birth, PROM, and neonatal ICU admission. Moreover, the incidence of PTB and PROM might further increase with the severity of AV. Clinicians should pay more consideration to vaginal microbiota assessment during pregnancy.
Collapse
|
23
|
Superti F, De Seta F. Warding Off Recurrent Yeast and Bacterial Vaginal Infections: Lactoferrin and Lactobacilli. Microorganisms 2020; 8:microorganisms8010130. [PMID: 31963487 PMCID: PMC7023241 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms8010130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Revised: 01/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Vaginal infections are the most prevalent women's health problem. Incompetent diagnosis, inappropriate treatments, and antibiotic resistance are the main causes of the unsatisfactory results of conventional, antimicrobic treatment for these infections. Research has thus been conducted to identify new treatments for these genital diseases. The significant enhancement in our knowledge of vaginal microbiota has permitted the development of new, nonpharmacological strategies for the treatment of vaginal infections that seek to restore the balance of vaginal microflora, as opposed to modifying its components. Among these approaches, bioactive compounds, such as probiotics and nutraceutical proteins (such as lactoferrin), deserve particular attention. The aim of this review is to examine the role of probiotics (mainly Lactobacillus spp.) and lactoferrin as new strategies for counteracting bacterial and fungal vaginal infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fabiana Superti
- National Centre for Innovative Technologies in Public Health, National Institute of Health, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-06-4990-3149; Fax: +39-06-4990-3563
| | - Francesco De Seta
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health-IRCCS “Burlo Garofolo”, University of Trieste, via dell’Istria 65/1, 34137 Trieste, Italy;
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
O'Callaghan JL, Turner R, Dekker Nitert M, Barrett HL, Clifton V, Pelzer ES. Re-assessing microbiomes in the low-biomass reproductive niche. BJOG 2019; 127:147-158. [PMID: 31587490 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.15974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The female reproductive tract represents a continuum between the vagina and the upper genital tract. New evidence from cultivation-independent studies suggests that the female upper genital tract is not sterile; however, the significance of this for reproductive health and disease remains to be elucidated fully. Further, diagnosis and treatment of infectious reproductive tract pathologies using cultivation-independent technologies represents a largely unchartered area of modern medical science. The challenge now is to design well-controlled experiments to account for the ease of contamination known to confound molecular-based studies of low-biomass niches, including the uterus and placenta. This will support robust assessment of the potential function of microorganisms, microbial metabolites, and cell-free bacterial DNA on reproductive function in health and disease. TWEETABLE ABSTRACT: Molecular microbial studies of low-biomass niches require stringent experimental controls to reveal causal relations in reproductive health and disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J L O'Callaghan
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Qld, Australia.,Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
| | - R Turner
- The Wesley Hospital, Auchenflower, Qld, Australia
| | - M Dekker Nitert
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, Faculty of Science, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Qld, Australia
| | - H L Barrett
- Endocrinology, Mater Hospital, South Brisbane, Qld, Australia.,Mater Research, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Qld, Australia
| | - V Clifton
- Mater Research, Pregnancy and Development Group, South Brisbane, Qld, Australia
| | - E S Pelzer
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Qld, Australia.,Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Dominguez-Bello MG, Godoy-Vitorino F, Knight R, Blaser MJ. Role of the microbiome in human development. Gut 2019; 68:1108-1114. [PMID: 30670574 PMCID: PMC6580755 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2018-317503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 405] [Impact Index Per Article: 81.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2018] [Revised: 12/15/2018] [Accepted: 12/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The host-microbiome supraorganism appears to have coevolved and the unperturbed microbial component of the dyad renders host health sustainable. This coevolution has likely shaped evolving phenotypes in all life forms on this predominantly microbial planet. The microbiota seems to exert effects on the next generation from gestation, via maternal microbiota and immune responses. The microbiota ecosystems develop, restricted to their epithelial niches by the host immune system, concomitantly with the host chronological development, providing early modulation of physiological host development and functions for nutrition, immunity and resistance to pathogens at all ages. Here, we review the role of the microbiome in human development, including evolutionary considerations, and the maternal/fetal relationships, contributions to nutrition and growth. We also discuss what constitutes a healthy microbiota, how antimicrobial modern practices are impacting the human microbiota, the associations between microbiota perturbations, host responses and diseases rocketing in urban societies and potential for future restoration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Gloria Dominguez-Bello
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Filipa Godoy-Vitorino
- Department of Microbiology and Medical Zoology, University of Puerto Rico, School of Medicine, San Juan, Puerto Rico, USA
| | - Rob Knight
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Martin J Blaser
- Department of Medicine, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York City, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Cortez RV, Taddei CR, Sparvoli LG, Ângelo AGS, Padilha M, Mattar R, Daher S. Microbiome and its relation to gestational diabetes. Endocrine 2019; 64:254-264. [PMID: 30421135 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-018-1813-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2018] [Accepted: 11/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), the major endocrine pathology in pregnancy, has been associated with the development of an intense inflammatory process and increased insulin resistance. The maternal microbiota is involved in several metabolic functions; however, its role in GDM physiopathology remains unclear. The aim of this study was to assess the composition of the microbiota at different sites and evaluate its relationship with the occurrence of GDM. METHODS This cross-sectional study recruited women in the third trimester of gestation with and without GDM. Oral, vaginal, and stool samples were evaluated using next-generation sequencing. We included 68 participants: 26 with and 42 without GDM. RESULTS The analysis of the oral microbiome did not show significant differences in phyla and genus among the studied groups. In contrast, GDM patients presented a specific vaginal and intestinal microbiome composition, which was less diverse than those found in the control group, showing genera related to dysbiosis. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that changes in the composition of the vaginal and intestinal microbiome might be involved in the development of GDM. The follow-up of these patients in order to evaluate vaginal and intestinal samples after delivery may contribute to understanding the development of metabolic disease in women with previous GDM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ramon V Cortez
- Department of Obstetrics, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Rua Pedro de Toledo 669, 9 andar - 04939032, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Carla R Taddei
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Universidade de São Paulo (USP), Av.Prof. Lineu Prestes 580- bloco 17- 05508000, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luiz G Sparvoli
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Universidade de São Paulo (USP), Av.Prof. Lineu Prestes 580- bloco 17- 05508000, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana G S Ângelo
- Department of Obstetrics, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Rua Pedro de Toledo 669, 9 andar - 04939032, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marina Padilha
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Universidade de São Paulo (USP), Av.Prof. Lineu Prestes 580- bloco 17- 05508000, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rosiane Mattar
- Department of Obstetrics, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Rua Pedro de Toledo 669, 9 andar - 04939032, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Silvia Daher
- Department of Obstetrics, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Rua Pedro de Toledo 669, 9 andar - 04939032, São Paulo, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Barrios De Tomasi J, Opata MM, Mowa CN. Immunity in the Cervix: Interphase between Immune and Cervical Epithelial Cells. J Immunol Res 2019; 2019:7693183. [PMID: 31143785 PMCID: PMC6501150 DOI: 10.1155/2019/7693183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2018] [Revised: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The cervix is divided into two morphologically and immunologically distinct regions, namely, (1) the microbe-laden ectocervix, which is proximal to the vagina, and (2) the "sterile" endocervix, which is distal to the uterus. The two cervical regions are bordered by the cervical transformation zone (CTZ), an area of changing cells, and are predominantly composed of cervical epithelial cells. Epithelial cells are known to play a crucial role in the initiation, maintenance, and regulation of innate and adaptive response in collaboration with immune cells in several tissue types, including the cervix, and their dysfunction can lead to a spectrum of clinical syndromes. For instance, epithelial cells block progression and neutralize or kill microorganisms through multiple ways. These (ways) include mounting physical (intercellular junctions, secretion of mucus) and immune barriers (pathogen-recognition receptor-mediated pathways), which collectively and ultimately lead to the release of specific chemokines and or cytokines. The cytokines subsequently recruit subsets of immune cells appropriate to a particular immune context and response, such as dendritic cells (DCs), T, B, and natural killer (NK) cells. The immune response, as most biological processes in the female reproductive tract (FRT), is mainly regulated by estrogen and progesterone and their (immune cells) responses vary during different physiological phases of reproduction, such as menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and post menopause. The purpose of the present review is to compare the immunological profile of the mucosae and immune cells in the ecto- and endocervix and their interphase during the different phases of female reproduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jorgelina Barrios De Tomasi
- Department of Biology, Appalachian State University, Boone 28608, USA
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Medicina, Division de Ciencias de la Salud, Chetumal, Quintana Roo, Mexico
| | | | - Chishimba Nathan Mowa
- Department of Biology, Appalachian State University, Boone 28608, USA
- Rusangu University, Monze, Zambia
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Lepanto MS, Rosa L, Paesano R, Valenti P, Cutone A. Lactoferrin in Aseptic and Septic Inflammation. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24071323. [PMID: 30987256 PMCID: PMC6480387 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24071323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2019] [Revised: 03/29/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Lactoferrin (Lf), a cationic glycoprotein able to chelate two ferric irons per molecule, is synthesized by exocrine glands and neutrophils. Since the first anti-microbial function attributed to Lf, several activities have been discovered, including the relevant anti-inflammatory one, especially associated to the down-regulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines, as IL-6. As high levels of IL-6 are involved in iron homeostasis disorders, Lf is emerging as a potent regulator of iron and inflammatory homeostasis. Here, the role of Lf against aseptic and septic inflammation has been reviewed. In particular, in the context of aseptic inflammation, as anemia of inflammation, preterm delivery, Alzheimer’s disease and type 2 diabetes, Lf administration reduces local and/or systemic inflammation. Moreover, Lf oral administration, by decreasing serum IL-6, reverts iron homeostasis disorders. Regarding septic inflammation occurring in Chlamydia trachomatis infection, cystic fibrosis and inflammatory bowel disease, Lf, besides the anti-inflammatory activity, exerts a significant activity against bacterial adhesion, invasion and colonization. Lastly, a critical analysis of literature in vitro data reporting contradictory results on the Lf role in inflammatory processes, ranging from pro- to anti-inflammatory activity, highlighted that they depend on cell models, cell metabolic status, stimulatory or infecting agents as well as on Lf iron saturation degree, integrity and purity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Stefania Lepanto
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome La Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Luigi Rosa
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome La Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | | | - Piera Valenti
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome La Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Antimo Cutone
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome La Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy.
- Department of Biosciences and Territory, University of Molise, 86090 Pesche, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Meyerowitz EA, Prager S, Stout K, Roxby A. Endocarditis following IUD insertion in a patient with tetralogy of Fallot. BMJ Case Rep 2019; 12:12/2/bcr-2018-227962. [PMID: 30737328 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2018-227962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of antibiotic prophylaxis for prevention of infective endocarditis is unknown. Endocarditis prophylaxis is recommended for certain high-risk individuals prior to dental procedures. To our knowledge, this is the first case reported in the literature of a patient with complex congenital heart disease developing endocarditis in the period immediately following otherwise uncomplicated intrauterine device insertion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eric Allan Meyerowitz
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sarah Prager
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Karen Stout
- Department of Cardiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Alison Roxby
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Ojeda-Hernández F, del Moral-Ventura S, Capataz-Tafur J, Peña-Castro J, Abad-Zavaleta J, Chay-Canul A, Ramon-Ugalde J, Ungerfeld R, Meza-Villalvazo V. Vaginal microbiota in Pelibuey sheep treated with antimicrobials at the removal of intravaginal sponges impregnated with flurogestone acetate. Small Rumin Res 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2018.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
31
|
Álamos-Musre AS, Escobar A, Tapia CV, Christodoulides M, Rodas PI. Use of Human Fallopian Tube Organ in Culture (FTOC) and Primary Fallopian Tube Epithelial Cells (FTEC) to Study the Biology of Neisseria gonorrhoeae Infection. Methods Mol Biol 2019; 1997:377-402. [PMID: 31119635 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-9496-0_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Epithelial cells represent one of the most important physical barriers to many bacterial pathogens. In the case of Neisseria gonorrhoeae, the epithelial cell response is critical because they are the main target of the tissue damage triggered by the pathogen, particularly when the organism reaches the Fallopian tube (FT). Although the irreversible damage triggered by N. gonorrhoeae in the FT has been previously reported (ectopic pregnancy, pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility), the mechanisms of gonococcal-induced tissue damage are not fully understood. In addition, the lack of animal models that efficiently mimic the human disease and the complexity of gonococcus-host interactions make studying gonococcal pathogenesis particularly difficult. The use of human immortalized cells is also limited, since a variety of commercial FT cell lines is not yet available. Finally, the phase and antigenic variation of many gonococcal surface molecules involved in attachment and invasion of epithelial tissues leads to a failure to reproduce results using different human cells lines used in previous studies. The FT organ in culture (FTOC) and primary human fallopian tube epithelial cell (FTEC) represent the closest ex vivo cell models to explore the biology of Neisseria gonorrhoeae during infection of the FT, since it is a natural host target of the gonococcus. In this chapter, we describe protocols to process human FT samples to obtain FTOC and FTEC and assess their response to infection with Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Said Álamos-Musre
- Laboratory of Medical Microbiology and Pathogenesis, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Andres Bello, Concepción, Región del Bío-Bío, Chile
| | - Alejandro Escobar
- Laboratorio Biología celular y molecular, Instituto de Ciencias Odontológicas, Facultad de Odontología, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Región Metropolitana, Chile
| | - Cecilia V Tapia
- Laboratorio de Especialidad, Clínica Dávila, Santiago, Región Metropolitana, Chile
| | - Myron Christodoulides
- Molecular Microbiology Group, Academic Unit of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Paula I Rodas
- Laboratory of Medical Microbiology and Pathogenesis, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Andres Bello, Concepción, Región del Bío-Bío, Chile.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Godoy-Vitorino F, Romaguera J, Zhao C, Vargas-Robles D, Ortiz-Morales G, Vázquez-Sánchez F, Sanchez-Vázquez M, de la Garza-Casillas M, Martinez-Ferrer M, White JR, Bittinger K, Dominguez-Bello MG, Blaser MJ. Cervicovaginal Fungi and Bacteria Associated With Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia and High-Risk Human Papillomavirus Infections in a Hispanic Population. Front Microbiol 2018; 9:2533. [PMID: 30405584 PMCID: PMC6208322 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2018.02533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2018] [Accepted: 10/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The human cervicovaginal microbiota resides at an interface between the host and the environment and may affect susceptibility to disease. Puerto Rican women have high human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and cervical cancer rates. We hypothesized that the population structure of the cervicovaginal bacterial and fungal biota changed with cervical squamous intraepithelial lesions and HPV infections. DNA was extracted from cervix, introitus, and anal sites of 62 patients attending high-risk San Juan clinics. The 16S rRNA V4 region and ITS-2 fungal regions were amplified and sequenced using Illumina technology. HPV genotyping was determined by reverse hybridization with the HPV SPF10-LiPA25 kit. HPV prevalence was 84% of which ∼44% subjects were infected with high-risk HPV, ∼35% were co-infected with as many as 9 HPV types and ∼5% were infected with exclusively low-risk HPV types. HPV diversity did not change with cervical dysplasia. Cervical bacteria were more diverse in patients with CIN3 pre-cancerous lesions. We found enrichment of Atopobium vaginae and Gardnerella vaginalis in patients with CIN3 lesions. We found no significant bacterial biomarkers associated with HPV infections. Fungal diversity was significantly higher in cervical samples with high-risk HPV and introitus samples of patients with Atypical Squamous Cells of Undetermined Significance (ASCUS). Fungal biomarker signatures for vagina and cervix include Sporidiobolaceae and Sacharomyces for ASCUS, and Malassezia for high-risk HPV infections. Our combined data suggests that specific cervicovaginal bacterial and fungal populations are related to the host epithelial microenvironment, and could play roles in cervical dysplasia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Filipa Godoy-Vitorino
- Microbiome Lab, Department of Microbiology and Medical Zoology, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences Campus, University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, PR, United States
- Microbial Ecology and Genomics Laboratory, Department of Natural Sciences, Inter American University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, PR, United States
| | - Josefina Romaguera
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences Campus, University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, PR, United States
| | - Chunyu Zhao
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Daniela Vargas-Robles
- Department of Biology, University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, PR, Puerto Rico
- Servicio Autónomo Centro Amazónico de Investigación y Control de Enfermedades Tropicales Simón Bolívar, MPPS, Puerto Ayacucho, Venezuela
| | - Gilmary Ortiz-Morales
- Microbial Ecology and Genomics Laboratory, Department of Natural Sciences, Inter American University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, PR, United States
| | - Frances Vázquez-Sánchez
- Microbial Ecology and Genomics Laboratory, Department of Natural Sciences, Inter American University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, PR, United States
| | | | - Manuel de la Garza-Casillas
- Microbial Ecology and Genomics Laboratory, Department of Natural Sciences, Inter American University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, PR, United States
| | - Magaly Martinez-Ferrer
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, PR, United States
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Medical Sciences Campus, University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, PR, United States
| | | | - Kyle Bittinger
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Maria Gloria Dominguez-Bello
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology and of Anthropology, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, United States
| | - Martin J. Blaser
- Department of Medicine and Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY, United States
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Taddei CR, Cortez RV, Mattar R, Torloni MR, Daher S. Microbiome in normal and pathological pregnancies: A literature overview. Am J Reprod Immunol 2018; 80:e12993. [DOI: 10.1111/aji.12993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2018] [Accepted: 05/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Carla R. Taddei
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences; Universidade de São Paulo; São Paulo Brazil
| | - Ramon V. Cortez
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences; Universidade de São Paulo; São Paulo Brazil
| | - Rosiane Mattar
- Department of Obstetrics; Universidade Federal de São Paulo; São Paulo Brazil
| | | | - Silvia Daher
- Department of Obstetrics; Universidade Federal de São Paulo; São Paulo Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Kaambo E, Africa C, Chambuso R, Passmore JAS. Vaginal Microbiomes Associated With Aerobic Vaginitis and Bacterial Vaginosis. Front Public Health 2018; 6:78. [PMID: 29632854 PMCID: PMC5879096 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2018.00078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2017] [Accepted: 03/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
A healthy vaginal microbiota is considered to be significant for maintaining vaginal health and preventing infections. However, certain vaginal bacterial commensal species serve an important first line of defense of the body. Any disruption of this microbial barrier might result in a number of urogenital conditions including aerobic vaginitis (AV) and bacterial vaginosis (BV). The health of the vagina is closely associated with inhabitant microbiota. Furthermore, these microbes maintain a low vaginal pH, prevent the acquisition of pathogens, stimulate or moderate the local innate immune system, and further protect against complications during pregnancies. Therefore, this review will focus on vaginal microbial “health” in the lower reproductive tract of women and on the physiological characteristics that determine the well-being of reproductive health. In addition, we explore the distinct versus shared characteristics of BV and AV, which are commonly associated with increased risk for preterm delivery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn Kaambo
- Genital Mucosal HIV and STI Research Group, Division of Medical Virology, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Medical Virology Laboratory, Cape Town, South Africa.,Genital Mucosal HIV and STI Research Group, Department of Pathology, Division of Medical Virology, NRF-DST CAPRISA CENTRE OF EXCELENCE, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,Department of Biochemistry and Medical Microbiology, University of Namibia Medical School, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - Charlene Africa
- MENIS, Medical Biosciences, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Ramadhani Chambuso
- Division of Medical Virology, Department of Pathology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,Department of Gynecology, Morogoro Regional Referral Hospital, Morogoro, Tanzania
| | - Jo-Ann Shelley Passmore
- Genital Mucosal HIV and STI Research Group, Division of Medical Virology, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Medical Virology Laboratory, Cape Town, South Africa.,Genital Mucosal HIV and STI Research Group, Department of Pathology, Division of Medical Virology, NRF-DST CAPRISA CENTRE OF EXCELENCE, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Valenti P, Rosa L, Capobianco D, Lepanto MS, Schiavi E, Cutone A, Paesano R, Mastromarino P. Role of Lactobacilli and Lactoferrin in the Mucosal Cervicovaginal Defense. Front Immunol 2018; 9:376. [PMID: 29545798 PMCID: PMC5837981 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.00376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2017] [Accepted: 02/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The innate defense system of the female mucosal genital tract involves a close and complex interaction among the healthy vaginal microbiota, different cells, and various proteins that protect the host from pathogens. Vaginal lactobacilli and lactoferrin represent two essential actors in the vaginal environment. Lactobacilli represent the dominant bacterial species able to prevent facultative and obligate anaerobes outnumber in vaginal microbiota maintaining healthy microbial homeostasis. Several mechanisms underlie the protection exerted by lactobacilli: competition for nutrients and tissue adherence, reduction of the vaginal pH, modulation of immunity, and production of bioactive compounds. Among bioactive factors of cervicovaginal mucosa, lactoferrin, an iron-binding cationic glycoprotein, is a multifunctional glycoprotein with antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and antiparasitic activities, recently emerging as an important modulator of inflammation. Lactobacilli and lactoferrin are largely under the influence of female hormones and of paracrine production of various cytokines. Lactoferrin is strongly increased in lower genital tract mucosal fluid of women affected by Neisseria gonorrheae, Chlamydia trachomatis, and Trichomonas vaginalis infections promoting both innate and adaptive immune responses. In vaginal dysbiosis characterized by low amounts of vaginal lactobacilli and increased levels of endogenous anaerobic bacteria, the increase in lactoferrin could act as an immune modulator assuming the role normally played by the healthy microbiota in vaginal mucosa. Then lactoferrin and lactobacilli may be considered as biomarkers of altered microbial homeostasis at vaginal level. Considering the shortage of effective treatments to counteract recurrent and/or antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections, the intravaginal administration of lactobacilli and lactoferrin could be a novel efficient therapeutic strategy and a valuable tool to restore mucosal immune homeostasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Piera Valenti
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Luigi Rosa
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Capobianco
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Stefania Lepanto
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisa Schiavi
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Antimo Cutone
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Rosalba Paesano
- Department of Gynecological-Obstetric and Urological Sciences, University of Rome La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Mastromarino
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Hapgood JP, Kaushic C, Hel Z. Hormonal Contraception and HIV-1 Acquisition: Biological Mechanisms. Endocr Rev 2018; 39:36-78. [PMID: 29309550 PMCID: PMC5807094 DOI: 10.1210/er.2017-00103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2017] [Accepted: 11/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Access to effective affordable contraception is critical for individual and public health. A wide range of hormonal contraceptives (HCs), which differ in composition, concentration of the progestin component, frequency of dosage, and method of administration, is currently available globally. However, the options are rather limited in settings with restricted economic resources that frequently overlap with areas of high HIV-1 prevalence. The predominant contraceptive used in sub-Saharan Africa is the progestin-only three-monthly injectable depot medroxyprogesterone acetate. Determination of whether HCs affect HIV-1 acquisition has been hampered by behavioral differences potentially confounding clinical observational data. Meta-analysis of these studies shows a significant association between depot medroxyprogesterone acetate use and increased risk of HIV-1 acquisition, raising important concerns. No association was found for combined oral contraceptives containing levonorgestrel, nor for the two-monthly injectable contraceptive norethisterone enanthate, although data for norethisterone enanthate are limited. Susceptibility to HIV-1 and other sexually transmitted infections may, however, be dependent on the type of progestin present in the formulation. Several underlying biological mechanisms that may mediate the effect of HCs on HIV-1 and other sexually transmitted infection acquisition have been identified in clinical, animal, and ex vivo studies. A substantial gap exists in the translation of basic research into clinical practice and public health policy. To bridge this gap, we review the current knowledge of underlying mechanisms and biological effects of commonly used progestins. The review sheds light on issues critical for an informed choice of progestins for the identification of safe, effective, acceptable, and affordable contraceptive methods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Janet P Hapgood
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Charu Kaushic
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, Ontario, Canada.,McMaster Immunology Research Centre, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Zdenek Hel
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama.,Center for AIDS Research, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
The human female urogenital microbiome: complexity in normality. Emerg Top Life Sci 2017; 1:363-372. [PMID: 33525775 DOI: 10.1042/etls20170042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2017] [Revised: 09/13/2017] [Accepted: 09/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Microbial communities of the urogenital tract have long been recognised to play an important role in disease states. A revolution in methodological approaches is permitting the assessment of complex urogenital tract microbiota-host interactions and the metabolic and protein milieu of the mucosal interface. There is now great potential for significant advances in biomarker discovery and disease risk stratification, and for the elucidation of mechanisms underpinning the microbial community dynamics involved in urogenital tract pathology. Microbiota-host interactions in the female genital tract have a particular significance, because unlike in the male, there is direct communication between the external genitalia, the uterus and the peritoneal cavity. This review examines the microbial community composition at differing sites of the female urogenital tract and its relationship with health and disease. Key factors involved in the modulation of vaginal microbiome stability and structure, such as endocrine, immune and inflammatory pathways, are considered in the context of a woman's life cycle and disease pathogenesis.
Collapse
|
38
|
Abstract
Neonatal sepsis is the cause of substantial morbidity and mortality. Precise estimates of neonatal sepsis burden vary by setting. Differing estimates of disease burden have been reported from high-income countries compared with reports from low-income and middle-income countries. The clinical manifestations range from subclinical infection to severe manifestations of focal or systemic disease. The source of the pathogen might be attributed to an in-utero infection, acquisition from maternal flora, or postnatal acquisition from the hospital or community. The timing of exposure, inoculum size, immune status of the infant, and virulence of the causative agent influence the clinical expression of neonatal sepsis. Immunological immaturity of the neonate might result in an impaired response to infectious agents. This is especially evident in premature infants whose prolonged stays in hospital and need for invasive procedures place them at increased risk for hospital-acquired infections. Clinically, there is often little difference between sepsis that is caused by an identified pathogen and sepsis that is caused by an unknown pathogen. Culture-independent diagnostics, the use of sepsis prediction scores, judicious antimicrobial use, and the development of preventive measures including maternal vaccines are ongoing efforts designed to reduce the burden of neonatal sepsis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andi L Shane
- Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | - Pablo J Sánchez
- Divisions of Neonatology and Infectious Disease, Department of Pediatrics, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Barbara J Stoll
- University of Texas, Health McGovern Medical School, Houston, TX, USA
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Amaral WZ, Lubach GR, Kapoor A, Proctor A, Phillips GJ, Lyte M, Coe CL. Low Lactobacilli abundance and polymicrobial diversity in the lower reproductive tract of female rhesus monkeys do not compromise their reproductive success. Am J Primatol 2017; 79. [PMID: 28898440 DOI: 10.1002/ajp.22691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2017] [Revised: 06/15/2017] [Accepted: 08/10/2017] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The lower reproductive tract of nonhuman primates is colonized with a diverse microbiota, resembling bacterial vaginosis (BV), a gynecological condition associated with negative reproductive outcomes in women. Our 4 aims were to: (i) assess the prevalence of low Lactobacilli and a BV-like profile in female rhesus monkeys; (ii) quantify cytokines in their cervicovaginal fluid (CVF); (iii) examine the composition and structure of their mucosal microbiota with culture-independent sequencing methods; and (iv) evaluate the potential influence on reproductive success. CVF specimens were obtained from 27 female rhesus monkeys for Gram's staining, and to determine acidity (pH), and quantify proinflammatory cytokines. Based on Nugent's classification, 40% had a score of 7 or higher, which would be indicative of BV in women. Nugent scores were significantly correlated with the pH of the CVF. Interleukin-1ß was present at high concentrations, but not further elevated by high Nugent scores. Vaginal swabs were obtained from eight additional females to determine microbial diversity by rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. At the phylum level, the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio was low. The relative abundance of Lactobacilli was also low (between 3% and 17%), and 11 other genera were present at >1%. However, neither the microbial diversity in the community structure, nor high Nugent scores, was associated with reduced fecundity. Female monkeys provide an opportunity to understand how reproductive success can be sustained in the presence of a diverse polymicrobial community in the reproductive tract.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wellington Z Amaral
- Harlow Center for Biological Psychology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Gabriele R Lubach
- Harlow Center for Biological Psychology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Amita Kapoor
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, Madison, Wisconsin
| | | | | | - Mark Lyte
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa
| | - Christopher L Coe
- Harlow Center for Biological Psychology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Di Paola M, Sani C, Clemente AM, Iossa A, Perissi E, Castronovo G, Tanturli M, Rivero D, Cozzolino F, Cavalieri D, Carozzi F, De Filippo C, Torcia MG. Characterization of cervico-vaginal microbiota in women developing persistent high-risk Human Papillomavirus infection. Sci Rep 2017; 7:10200. [PMID: 28860468 PMCID: PMC5579045 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-09842-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 161] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2017] [Accepted: 07/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Changes in cervico-vaginal microbiota with Lactobacillus depletion and increased microbial diversity facilitate human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and might be involved in viral persistence and cancer development. To define the microbial Community State Types (CSTs) associated with high-risk HPV-persistence, we analysed 55 cervico-vaginal samples from HPV positive (HPV+) women out of 1029 screened women and performed pyrosequencing of 16S rDNA. A total of 17 samples from age-matched HPV negative (HPV-) women were used as control. Clearance or Persistence groups were defined by recalling women after one year for HPV screening and genotyping. A CST IV subgroup, with bacterial genera such as Gardnerella, Prevotella, Megasphoera, Atopobium, frequently associated with anaerobic consortium in bacterial vaginosis (BV), was present at baseline sampling in 43% of women in Persistence group, and only in 7.4% of women in Clearance group. Atopobium genus was significantly enriched in Persistence group compared to the other groups. Sialidase-encoding gene from Gardnerella vaginalis, involved in biofilm formation, was significantly more represented in Persistence group compared to the other groups. Based on these data, we consider the CST IV-BV as a risk factor for HPV persistence and we propose Atopobium spp and sialidase gene from G. vaginalis as microbial markers of HPV-persistence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monica Di Paola
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, Meyer Children Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Cristina Sani
- S.C. Screening e Prevenzione Secondaria, Istituto per lo Studio e la Prevenzione Oncologica (ISPO), Florence, Italy
| | - Ann Maria Clemente
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Anna Iossa
- Laboratorio Regionale HPV e Biologia Molecolare, LRPO, Istituto per lo Studio e la Prevenzione Oncologica (ISPO), Florence, Italy
| | - Eloisa Perissi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Castronovo
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Michele Tanturli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Damariz Rivero
- Department of Biology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Federico Cozzolino
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Francesca Carozzi
- S.C. Screening e Prevenzione Secondaria, Istituto per lo Studio e la Prevenzione Oncologica (ISPO), Florence, Italy.
| | - Carlotta De Filippo
- Institute of Biology and Agrarian Biotechnology (IBBA), National Research Council (CNR), Pisa, Italy.
| | - Maria Gabriella Torcia
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Kamińska D, Gajecka M. Is the role of human female reproductive tract microbiota underestimated? Benef Microbes 2017; 8:327-343. [PMID: 28504576 DOI: 10.3920/bm2015.0174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
An issue that is currently undergoing extensive study is the influence of human vaginal microbiota (VMB) on the health status of women and their neonates. Healthy women are mainly colonised with lactobacilli such as Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus jensenii, and Lactobacillus iners; however, other bacteria may be elements of the VMB, particularly in women with bacterial vaginosis. The implementation of culture-independent molecular methods in VMB characterisation, especially next-generation sequencing, have provided new information regarding bacterial diversity in the vagina, revealing a large number of novel, fastidious, and/or uncultivated bacterial species. These molecular studies have contributed new insights regarding the role of bacterial community composition. In this study, we discuss recent findings regarding the reproductive tract microbiome. Not only bacteria but also viruses and fungi constitute important components of the reproductive tract microbiome. We focus on aspects related to the impact of the maternal microbiome on foetal development, as well as the establishment of the neonatal microbiomes, including the placenta microbiome, and the haematogenous source of intrauterine infection. We also discuss whether the role of the vaginal microbiome is currently understood and appreciated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D Kamińska
- 1 Department of Genetics and Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Swiecickiego 4, 60-781 Poznan, Poland
| | - M Gajecka
- 1 Department of Genetics and Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Swiecickiego 4, 60-781 Poznan, Poland.,2 Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Strzeszynska 32, 60-479 Poznan, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
van de Wijgert JHHM, Jespers V. The global health impact of vaginal dysbiosis. Res Microbiol 2017; 168:859-864. [PMID: 28257809 DOI: 10.1016/j.resmic.2017.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2016] [Revised: 02/09/2017] [Accepted: 02/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The most common dysbiosis of the vaginal microbiome (defined here as a vaginal microbiome not dominated by lactobacilli) is bacterial vaginosis, an anaerobic polybacterial dysbiosis. Other dysbiotic states of importance to global health are vaginal microbiota with a high abundance of streptococci, staphylococci or Enterobacteriaceae, vaginal candidiasis and trichomoniasis. Knowledge about the different types of dysbiosis and their relationship to urogenital and reproductive disease burden has increased in recent years by applying non-culture-based techniques, but is far from complete. The burden of bacterial vaginosis is highest in sub-Saharan Africa and in women of sub-Saharan African descent living elsewhere. Vaginal dysbiosis has been associated with increased susceptibility to and transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections and increased risk of pelvic inflammatory disease, preterm birth and maternal and neonatal infections. In this review, we summarize the contribution of vaginal dysbiosis to the global burden of each of these and highlight areas that require more research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Janneke H H M van de Wijgert
- Department of Clinical Infection, Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, Ronald Ross Building, 8 West Derby Street, Liverpool L69 7BE, UK.
| | - Vicky Jespers
- HIV and Sexual Health Group, Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, Antwerp, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Vick EJ, Park HS, Huff KA, Brooks KM, Farone AL, Farone MB. Gardnerella vaginalis triggers NLRP3 inflammasome recruitment in THP-1 monocytes. J Reprod Immunol 2014; 106:67-75. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2014.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2014] [Revised: 08/05/2014] [Accepted: 08/19/2014] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
|
44
|
Jacobson JC, Turok DK, Dermish AI, Nygaard IE, Settles ML. Vaginal microbiome changes with levonorgestrel intrauterine system placement. Contraception 2014; 90:130-5. [PMID: 24835828 DOI: 10.1016/j.contraception.2014.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2013] [Revised: 04/14/2014] [Accepted: 04/15/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate changes in female genital tract bacterial ecology associated with levonorgestrel intrauterine system (LNG IUS) use. STUDY DESIGN Study participants were regularly cycling Caucasian women without recent history of pregnancy or exogenous hormone use. Vaginal, cervical and uterine samples were obtained at nine time intervals, from 1 week before to 12 weeks after LNG IUS placement. Replicate paired vaginal and cervical specimens were collected to determine the consistency of specimen collection and processing. RESULTS A total of 406 samples from 11 women were available for analysis after DNA extraction, amplification and species identification. Of the 355 bacterial species or genera detected, Lactobacillus crispatus was most prevalent representing 48.9% of over 6 million total reads. L. crispatus reads of replicate vaginal samples were not significantly different [odds ratio (OR) 0.79, 0.36-1.73]. In addition, L. crispatus reads of vaginal and cervical samples from the same visit were not significantly different (OR 0.69, 0.31-1.51). Compared to sampling visits prior to LNG IUS placement, sampling visits after LNG IUS insertion were more likely to have L. crispatus reads greater than 50% of total reads (OR 2.13, 1.01-4.48). Of the 63 uterine samples demonstrating bacteria, Burkholderia genus proteobacteria, a common environmental contaminant, were most prevalent both before and after LNG IUS insertion accounting for 48.0% of all uterine sample reads. CONCLUSION The vaginal microbiome changes very little in response to LNG IUS placement. Further study is needed to place this finding in context with clinical outcomes. IMPLICATIONS There do not appear to be any clinically important differences in the vaginal microbiome in response to insertion of the LNG IUS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - David K Turok
- University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Amna I Dermish
- University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | | | - Matthew L Settles
- Institute for Bioinformatics and Evolutionary Studies, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Borges S, Silva J, Teixeira P. The role of lactobacilli and probiotics in maintaining vaginal health. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2013; 289:479-89. [PMID: 24170161 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-013-3064-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 220] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2013] [Accepted: 10/15/2013] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The vaginal microbiota of healthy women consists typically of a diversity of anaerobic and aerobic microorganisms. Lactobacilli are the most prevalent and often numerically dominant microorganisms and are relevant as a barrier to infection. The capacity of lactobacilli to adhere and compete for adhesion sites in the vaginal epithelium and the capacity to produce antimicrobial compounds (hydrogen peroxide, lactic acid, bacteriocin-like substances), are important in the impairment of colonization by pathogens. OBJECTIVE This review summarizes the role of lactic acid bacteria in preventing illness of the host, including bacterial vaginosis, yeast vaginitis, urinary tract infection and sexually transmitted diseases. CONCLUSIONS The administration of probiotics that colonize the vaginal tract can be important in maintaining a normal urogenital health and also to prevent or treat infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Borges
- CBQF, Centro de Biotecnologia e Química Fina, Escola Superior de Biotecnologia, Centro Regional do Porto da Universidade Católica Portuguesa, Rua Dr. António Bernardino Almeida, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
46
|
Elkjær K, Ancker ML, Gustafsson H, Friggens NC, Waldmann A, Mølbak L, Callesen H. Uterine bacterial flora in postpartum Danish Holstein dairy cows determined using DNA-based fingerprinting: correlation to uterine condition and calving management. Anim Reprod Sci 2013; 138:39-48. [PMID: 23477754 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2013.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2012] [Revised: 01/16/2013] [Accepted: 01/29/2013] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The overall aim of this study was to describe uterine bacterial flora during the postpartum period in Danish Holstein cows using the Terminal Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (T-RFLP) method. This method produces a pattern of nucleic acid fragments from the microorganisms present, reflecting the "fingerprint" of the actual microbial flora. As well as characterizing changes in flora with time from calving and between herds, data were examined for strong relations between uterine bacterial flora, calving management and uterine condition. In total 125 Holstein cows from five herds were included, and for each cow calving management was recorded. Cows were clinically examined on average 8 (range 0-19) and 28 (range 22-38) days after calving, and a uterine sample was taken for bacterial identification using T-RFLP. Milk samples were taken weekly for progesterone analysis. Bacteria were found in all cows at both examinations, and the flora was composed of many species, including species not traditionally reported to be present in the bovine uterus. The bacterial composition differed according to days from calving and herd. In all five herds Fusobacterium necrophorum, Pseudomonas/Acinetobacter and Bacteroides/Sphingobacterium/Prevotellaceae were among the most common at both examinations. In four herds there was a percentage decrease of F. necrophorum from first to second examination, and in all herds there was a percentage increase of Pseudomonas/Acinetobacter from first to second examination. No differences in bacterial flora were found between cows with different uterine scores, which were influenced by herd, calving difficulty and retained placenta.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K Elkjær
- Knowledge Centre for Agriculture, Skejby, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark; Department of Animal Science, Aarhus University, 8830 Tjele, Denmark.
| | - M-L Ancker
- Knowledge Centre for Agriculture, Skejby, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - H Gustafsson
- Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Department of Clinical Sciences, 750 07 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - N C Friggens
- INRA UMR 791 Modélisation Systémique Appliquée aux Ruminants (MoSAR), AgroParisTech, 75231 Paris Cedex 05, France; AgroParisTech UMR 791 Modélisation Systémique Appliquée aux Ruminants, 16 rue Claude Bernard, 75231 Paris, France
| | - A Waldmann
- Estonian University of Life Sciences, Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Department of Reproductive Biology, 51006 Tartu, Estonia
| | - L Mølbak
- National Veterinary Institute, Technical University of Denmark, 1790 Copenhagen V, Denmark
| | - H Callesen
- Department of Animal Science, Aarhus University, 8830 Tjele, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
The Completed Self: An Immunological View of the Human-Microbiome Superorganism and Risk of Chronic Diseases. ENTROPY 2012. [DOI: 10.3390/e14112036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
|