1
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Kyser AJ, Mahmoud MY, Fotouh B, Patel R, Armstrong C, Aagard M, Rush I, Lewis W, Lewis A, Frieboes HB. Sustained dual delivery of metronidazole and viable Lactobacillus crispatus from 3D-printed silicone shells. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2024; 165:214005. [PMID: 39208497 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2024.214005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2024] [Revised: 08/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/21/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is an imbalance of the vaginal microbiome in which there are limited lactobacilli and an overgrowth of anaerobic and fastidious bacteria such as Gardnerella. The propensity for BV recurrence is high, and therapies involving multiple treatment modalities are emerging to meet this need. However, current treatments requiring frequent therapeutic administration are challenging for patients and impact user compliance. Three-dimensional (3D)-printing offers a novel alternative to customize platforms to facilitate sustained therapeutic delivery to the vaginal tract. This study designed a novel vehicle intended for dual sustained delivery of both antibiotic and probiotic. 3D-printed compartmental scaffolds consisting of an antibiotic-containing silicone shell and a core containing probiotic Lactobacillus were developed with multiple formulations including biomaterials sodium alginate (SA), polyethylene glycol (PEG), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), polyethylene oxide (PEO), and kappa-carrageenan (KC). The vehicles were loaded with 50 μg of metronidazole/mg polymer and 5 × 107 CFU of L. crispatus/mg scaffold. Metronidazole-containing shells exhibited cumulative drug release of 324.2 ± 31.2 μg/mL after 14 days. Multiple polymeric formulations for the probiotic core demonstrated cumulative L. crispatus recovery of >5 × 107 CFU/mg scaffold during this timeframe. L. crispatus-loaded polymeric formulations exhibited ≥2 log CFU/mL reduction in free Gardnerella in the presence of VK2/E6E7 vaginal epithelial cells. As a first step towards the goal of facilitating patient compliance, this study demonstrates in vitro effect of a novel 3D-printed dual antibiotic and probiotic delivery platform to target BV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony J Kyser
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Mohamed Y Mahmoud
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA; Department of Toxicology and Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Egypt
| | - Bassam Fotouh
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Rudra Patel
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Christy Armstrong
- Glycobiology Research and Training Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Marnie Aagard
- Glycobiology Research and Training Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Isaiah Rush
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Dayton, Dayton, OH, USA
| | - Warren Lewis
- Glycobiology Research and Training Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Amanda Lewis
- Glycobiology Research and Training Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Hermann B Frieboes
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA; Center for Predictive Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA; UofL Health - Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, KY, USA.
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2
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Plummer EL, Vodstrcil LA, Bradshaw CS. Unravelling the vaginal microbiome, impact on health and disease. Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol 2024; 36:338-344. [PMID: 39109542 DOI: 10.1097/gco.0000000000000976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/30/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The vaginal microbiome has a fundamental role in supporting optimal vaginal, reproductive, and sexual health. Conversely, dysbiosis of the vaginal microbiome is linked to vaginal symptoms and adverse health outcomes. This review summarizes recent literature concerning the role of the vaginal microbiome in health and disease, with a focus on the most common vaginal dysbiosis, bacterial vaginosis. RECENT FINDINGS Molecular studies have expanded our understanding of the composition of the vaginal microbiome. Lactic acid-producing lactobacilli are an important component of host defences against pathogens, whereas a paucity of lactobacilli is associated with adverse sequelae. Bacterial vaginosis is characterized by low levels of lactobacilli and increased levels of nonoptimal anaerobes; however, the exact cause remains unclear. Furthermore, despite decades of research, bacterial vaginosis recurrence rates following standard treatment are unacceptably high. Strategies to improve bacterial vaginosis cure and promote an optimal lactobacilli-dominated vaginal microbiome are being investigated. Importantly, historical and emerging evidence supports the sexual transmission of bacterial vaginosis, which opens exciting opportunities for novel treatments that incorporate partners. SUMMARY A mechanistic and deeper understanding of the vaginal microbiome in health and disease is needed to inform ongoing development of therapeutics to improve bacterial vaginosis cure. Partner treatment holds promise for improving bacterial vaginosis cure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica L Plummer
- School of Translational Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Hospital, Carlton
| | - Lenka A Vodstrcil
- School of Translational Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Hospital, Carlton
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Catriona S Bradshaw
- School of Translational Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Hospital, Carlton
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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3
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Ma Z, Zuo T, Frey N, Rangrez AY. A systematic framework for understanding the microbiome in human health and disease: from basic principles to clinical translation. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:237. [PMID: 39307902 PMCID: PMC11418828 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01946-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 09/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The human microbiome is a complex and dynamic system that plays important roles in human health and disease. However, there remain limitations and theoretical gaps in our current understanding of the intricate relationship between microbes and humans. In this narrative review, we integrate the knowledge and insights from various fields, including anatomy, physiology, immunology, histology, genetics, and evolution, to propose a systematic framework. It introduces key concepts such as the 'innate and adaptive genomes', which enhance genetic and evolutionary comprehension of the human genome. The 'germ-free syndrome' challenges the traditional 'microbes as pathogens' view, advocating for the necessity of microbes for health. The 'slave tissue' concept underscores the symbiotic intricacies between human tissues and their microbial counterparts, highlighting the dynamic health implications of microbial interactions. 'Acquired microbial immunity' positions the microbiome as an adjunct to human immune systems, providing a rationale for probiotic therapies and prudent antibiotic use. The 'homeostatic reprogramming hypothesis' integrates the microbiome into the internal environment theory, potentially explaining the change in homeostatic indicators post-industrialization. The 'cell-microbe co-ecology model' elucidates the symbiotic regulation affecting cellular balance, while the 'meta-host model' broadens the host definition to include symbiotic microbes. The 'health-illness conversion model' encapsulates the innate and adaptive genomes' interplay and dysbiosis patterns. The aim here is to provide a more focused and coherent understanding of microbiome and highlight future research avenues that could lead to a more effective and efficient healthcare system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziqi Ma
- Department of Cardiology, Angiology and Pneumology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Tao Zuo
- Key Laboratory of Human Microbiome and Chronic Diseases (Sun Yat-sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Norbert Frey
- Department of Cardiology, Angiology and Pneumology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Ashraf Yusuf Rangrez
- Department of Cardiology, Angiology and Pneumology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, Heidelberg, Germany.
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4
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Zhu M, Frank MW, Radka CD, Jeanfavre S, Xu J, Tse MW, Pacheco JA, Kim JS, Pierce K, Deik A, Hussain FA, Elsherbini J, Hussain S, Xulu N, Khan N, Pillay V, Mitchell CM, Dong KL, Ndung'u T, Clish CB, Rock CO, Blainey PC, Bloom SM, Kwon DS. Vaginal Lactobacillus fatty acid response mechanisms reveal a metabolite-targeted strategy for bacterial vaginosis treatment. Cell 2024; 187:5413-5430.e29. [PMID: 39163861 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2024.07.029] [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: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 08/22/2024]
Abstract
Bacterial vaginosis (BV), a common syndrome characterized by Lactobacillus-deficient vaginal microbiota, is associated with adverse health outcomes. BV often recurs after standard antibiotic therapy in part because antibiotics promote microbiota dominance by Lactobacillus iners instead of Lactobacillus crispatus, which has more beneficial health associations. Strategies to promote L. crispatus and inhibit L. iners are thus needed. We show that oleic acid (OA) and similar long-chain fatty acids simultaneously inhibit L. iners and enhance L. crispatus growth. These phenotypes require OA-inducible genes conserved in L. crispatus and related lactobacilli, including an oleate hydratase (ohyA) and putative fatty acid efflux pump (farE). FarE mediates OA resistance, while OhyA is robustly active in the vaginal microbiota and enhances bacterial fitness by biochemically sequestering OA in a derivative form only ohyA-harboring organisms can exploit. OA promotes L. crispatus dominance more effectively than antibiotics in an in vitro BV model, suggesting a metabolite-based treatment approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meilin Zhu
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT, and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Matthew W Frank
- Department of Host-Microbe Interactions, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Christopher D Radka
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | | | - Jiawu Xu
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT, and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Megan W Tse
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | | | - Jae Sun Kim
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT, and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Kerry Pierce
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Amy Deik
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Fatima Aysha Hussain
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT, and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Salina Hussain
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT, and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Nondumiso Xulu
- HIV Pathogenesis Programme, The Doris Duke Medical Research Institute, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Nasreen Khan
- HIV Pathogenesis Programme, The Doris Duke Medical Research Institute, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | | | - Caroline M Mitchell
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT, and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Krista L Dong
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT, and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Health Systems Trust, Durban, South Africa; Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Thumbi Ndung'u
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT, and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; HIV Pathogenesis Programme, The Doris Duke Medical Research Institute, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa; Africa Health Research Institute, Durban, South Africa; Max Planck Institute for Infection Biology, Berlin, Germany; Division of Infection and Immunity, University College London, London, UK
| | - Clary B Clish
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Charles O Rock
- Department of Host-Microbe Interactions, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Paul C Blainey
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.
| | - Seth M Bloom
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT, and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Douglas S Kwon
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT, and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
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5
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Galiwango RM, Okech B, Park DE, Buchanan L, Shao Z, Bagaya B, Mpendo J, Joag V, Yegorov S, Nanvubya A, Biribawa VM, Namatovu T, Kato C, Kawoozo B, Ssetaala A, Muwanga M, Aziz M, Pham T, Huibner S, Tobian AAR, Liu CM, Prodger JL, Kaul R. Impact of antimicrobials on penile HIV susceptibility and immunology in uncircumcised men: A randomized phase 1/2 clinical trial. Cell Rep Med 2024; 5:101705. [PMID: 39214083 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2024.101705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 08/07/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Within the penile microbiome, bacteria associated with seroconversion, immunology, and cells (BASIC species) enhance HIV susceptibility in heterosexual uncircumcised men by inducing foreskin inflammation and HIV target cell recruitment. This phase 1/2 clinical trial randomizes HIV-uninfected Ugandan men (n = 125) to either oral tinidazole, topical metronidazole, topical clindamycin, or topical hydrogen peroxide to define impact on ex vivo foreskin HIV susceptibility, penile immunology, and BASIC species density. Antimicrobials are well tolerated, and 116 (93%) participants complete the protocol. Topical metronidazole and oral tinidazole reduce the inner foreskin tissue density of HIV-susceptible CD4+ T cells (predefined primary endpoint). Antimicrobials also have varying but substantial effects on reducing prepuce inflammation and BASIC species density, reducing density of foreskin T cell subsets, and increasing foreskin epithelial integrity. Immune alterations correlate strongly with changes in the abundance of BASIC species. Clinical interventions targeting the penile microbiota, particularly topical metronidazole, may reduce HIV susceptibility in uncircumcised men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronald M Galiwango
- Departments of Medicine and Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S1A8, Canada
| | | | - Daniel E Park
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA
| | - Lane Buchanan
- Departments of Microbiology and Immunology and Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON N6A3K7, Canada
| | - Zhongtian Shao
- Departments of Microbiology and Immunology and Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON N6A3K7, Canada
| | - Bernard Bagaya
- UVRI-IAVI HIV Vaccine Program, Entebbe, Uganda; Department of Microbiology, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Vineet Joag
- Departments of Medicine and Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S1A8, Canada; Centre for Immunology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Sergey Yegorov
- Departments of Medicine and Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S1A8, Canada; McMaster University, Institute for Infectious Disease Research, Guelph, ON L8S4L8, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Maliha Aziz
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA
| | - Tony Pham
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA
| | - Sanja Huibner
- Departments of Medicine and Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S1A8, Canada
| | - Aaron A R Tobian
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Cindy M Liu
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA
| | - Jessica L Prodger
- Departments of Microbiology and Immunology and Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON N6A3K7, Canada
| | - Rupert Kaul
- Departments of Medicine and Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S1A8, Canada; Department of Medicine, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G2C4, Canada.
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6
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Srinivasan S, Richardson BA, Wallis JM, Fiedler TL, Strenk SM, Hoffman NG, Proll S, Chirenje ZM, Livant EW, Fredricks DN, Hillier SL, Marrazzo JM. Vaginal Bacteria and Proinflammatory Host Immune Mediators as Biomarkers of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Acquisition Risk Among African Women. J Infect Dis 2024:jiae406. [PMID: 39248500 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiae406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Few investigations have assessed contributions of both vaginal bacteria and proinflammatory immune mediators to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) acquisition risk in a prospective cohort. METHODS We conducted a nested case-control study of African women who participated in a randomized placebo-controlled trial of daily oral versus vaginal tenofovir-based preexposure prophylaxis for HIV infection. Vaginal concentrations of 23 bacterial taxa and 16 immune mediators were measured. Relationships between individual bacterial concentrations or immune mediators and HIV risk were analyzed using generalized estimating equations in a multivariable model. Factor analysis assessed relationships between combinations of bacterial taxa, immune mediators, and HIV acquisition risk. RESULTS We identified 177 HIV pre-seroconversion visits from 150 women who acquired HIV and 531 visits from 436 women who remained HIV uninfected. Fourteen bacterial taxa and 6 proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines were individually associated with greater HIV risk after adjusting for confounders. Women with all 14 taxa versus <14 taxa (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 4.45 [95% confidence interval {CI}, 2.20-8.98]; P < .001) or all 6 immune mediators versus <6 mediators (aOR, 1.77 [95% CI, 1.24-2.52]; P < .001) had greater risk for HIV acquisition. Factor analysis demonstrated that a bacterial factor comprised of 14 high-risk bacterial taxa (aOR, 1.57 [95% CI, 1.27-1.93]; P < 0.001) and the interferon gamma-induced protein 10 (highest quartile: aOR, 3.19 [95% CI, 1.32-7.72]; P = 0.002) contributed to the highest HIV risk. CONCLUSIONS Bacterial and host biomarkers for predicting HIV acquisition risk identify women at greatest risk for HIV infection and can focus prevention efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sujatha Srinivasan
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, Washington
| | - Barbra A Richardson
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, Washington
- Department of Biostatistics, Seattle, Washington
- Department of Global Health, Seattle, Washington
| | - Jacqueline M Wallis
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, Washington
| | - Tina L Fiedler
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, Washington
| | - Susan M Strenk
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, Washington
| | - Noah G Hoffman
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Sean Proll
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, Washington
| | - Z Mike Chirenje
- Clinical Trial Research Center, University of Zimbabwe, Harare
| | | | - David N Fredricks
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, Washington
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle
| | - Sharon L Hillier
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pennsylvania
| | - Jeanne M Marrazzo
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
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7
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Tsunematsu R, Mariya T, Umemoto M, Ogawa S, Arai W, Tanaka SE, Ashikawa K, Kubo T, Sakuraba Y, Baba T, Ishioka S, Endo T, Saito T. Microbiological investigation of pregnancies following vaginal radical trachelectomy using 16S rRNA sequencing of FFPE placental specimens. FEBS Open Bio 2024. [PMID: 39245884 DOI: 10.1002/2211-5463.13892] [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: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2024] [Accepted: 08/24/2024] [Indexed: 09/10/2024] Open
Abstract
This study examined the risk of intrauterine infection associated with radical trachelectomy (RT) in early-stage cervical cancer patients. This procedure preserves fertility but is linked to increased risk of intrauterine infection due to cervical defects during pregnancy. DNA was extracted from the formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) placental specimens of 23 pregnant post-RT patients and 16S rRNA gene sequencing was used for bacterial identification. The prevalence of Lactobacillus crispatus and Burkholderia stabilis was significantly higher in the non-chorioamnionitis group. In contrast, alpha diversity analysis using the PD index showed significantly higher diversity in the chorioamnionitis group (P = 0.04). The demonstrated relationship between chorioamnionitis and microbial diversity affirms the importance of controlling the genital bacterial flora in pregnancies following RT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Risa Tsunematsu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Tasuku Mariya
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Mina Umemoto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Shiori Ogawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | | | | | | | - Terufumi Kubo
- Department of Pathology 1st, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | | | - Tsuyoshi Baba
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Shinichi Ishioka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Toshiaki Endo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Saito
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
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8
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Xu C, Guo J, Chang B, Zhang Y, Tan Z, Tian Z, Duan X, Ma J, Jiang Z, Hou J. Design of probiotic delivery systems and their therapeutic effects on targeted tissues. J Control Release 2024; 375:20-46. [PMID: 39214316 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.08.037] [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: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 08/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
The microbiota at different sites in the body is closely related to disease. The intake of probiotics is an effective strategy to alleviate diseases and be adjuvant in their treatment. However, probiotics may suffer from harsh environments and colonization resistance, making it difficult to maintain a sufficient number of live probiotics to reach the target sites and exert their original probiotic effects. Encapsulation of probiotics is an effective strategy. Therefore, probiotic delivery systems, as effective methods, have been continuously developed and innovated to ensure that probiotics are effectively delivered to the targeted site. In this review, initially, the design of probiotic delivery systems is reviewed from four aspects: probiotic characteristics, processing technologies, cell-derived wall materials, and interactions between wall materials. Subsequently, the review focuses on the effects of probiotic delivery systems that target four main microbial colonization sites: the oral cavity, skin, intestine, and vagina, as well as disease sites such as tumors. Finally, this review also discusses the safety concerns of probiotic delivery systems in the treatment of disease and the challenges and limitations of implementing this method in clinical studies. It is necessary to conduct more clinical studies to evaluate the effectiveness of different probiotic delivery systems in the treatment of diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong Xu
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Guiyang University, Guiyang 550005, China; Key Laboratory of Dairy Science, Northeast Agricultural University, College of Food Science, Harbin 150030, China; Heilongjiang Green Food Science Research Institute, Harbin 150028, China
| | - Jiahui Guo
- Key Laboratory of Dairy Science, Northeast Agricultural University, College of Food Science, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Baoyue Chang
- Key Laboratory of Dairy Science, Northeast Agricultural University, College of Food Science, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Yiming Zhang
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, China
| | - Zhongmei Tan
- Key Laboratory of Dairy Science, Northeast Agricultural University, College of Food Science, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Zihao Tian
- Key Laboratory of Dairy Science, Northeast Agricultural University, College of Food Science, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Xiaolei Duan
- Key Laboratory of Dairy Science, Northeast Agricultural University, College of Food Science, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Jiage Ma
- Key Laboratory of Dairy Science, Northeast Agricultural University, College of Food Science, Harbin 150030, China; Heilongjiang Green Food Science Research Institute, Harbin 150028, China
| | - Zhanmei Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Dairy Science, Northeast Agricultural University, College of Food Science, Harbin 150030, China.
| | - Juncai Hou
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Guiyang University, Guiyang 550005, China; Key Laboratory of Dairy Science, Northeast Agricultural University, College of Food Science, Harbin 150030, China; Heilongjiang Green Food Science Research Institute, Harbin 150028, China.
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9
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Pagar R, Deshkar S, Mahore J, Patole V, Deshpande H, Gandham N, Mirza S, Junnarkar M, Nawani N. The microbial revolution: Unveiling the benefits of vaginal probiotics and prebiotics. Microbiol Res 2024; 286:127787. [PMID: 38851010 DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2024.127787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
Vaginal health is essential to a woman's overall well-being, as abnormalities in vaginal health can lead to a variety of gynaecological disorders, such as urinary tract infections, yeast infections, and bacterial vaginosis. The vaginal microbiome is essential for the prevention of these infections. Disruptions in this microbial ecosystem can significantly impact vaginal health. The concept of utilizing probiotics and prebiotics to stimulate the growth of protective vaginal microbiota has gathered substantial interest in recent years. Probiotics are live micro-organisms that strengthen and restore vaginal microbial balance by lowering pH levels, production of bacteriocins, biofilm disruption, modulation of immune response, and production of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), consequently combating the development of pathogens. Prebiotics are oligosaccharides that encourage the development of probiotics such as lactobacilli species. Probiotics and prebiotics also have some broader implications for vaginal health, including their role in minimizing the incidence of premature birth, optimizing fertility, managing menopausal symptoms, and preventing vaginal infections. Synbiotics are a combination of probiotics and prebiotics that deliver additional benefits by encouraging the development and activity of beneficial microbes. Furthermore, postbiotics are bioactive compounds derived from probiotic bacteria during fermentation that have immunomodulatory actions and provide an additional layer of protection against vaginal infections. The present study highlights the most prevalent vaginal infections and limitations of existing therapies that influence the vaginal microbiota. The profound consequences of probiotics and prebiotics in women's health, including their role in minimizing the prevalence of vaginal infections and promoting overall vaginal health, as well as advanced therapeutic strategies such as synbiotics and postbiotics, are also discussed. The literature offers significant insights into the mechanism, efficacy, and safety of probiotics and prebiotics to healthcare providers and researchers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roshani Pagar
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Dr. D. Y. Patil Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, Pimpri, Pune, India
| | - Sanjeevani Deshkar
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Dr. D. Y. Patil Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, Pimpri, Pune, India.
| | - Jayashri Mahore
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Dr. D. Y. Patil Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, Pimpri, Pune, India
| | - Vinita Patole
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Dr. D. Y. Patil Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, Pimpri, Pune, India
| | - Hemant Deshpande
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune, India
| | - Nageswari Gandham
- Department of Microbiology, Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune, India
| | - Shahzad Mirza
- Department of Microbiology, Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune, India
| | - Manisha Junnarkar
- Microbial Diversity Research Centre, Dr. D. Y. Patil Biotechnology and Bioinformatics Institute, Pune, India
| | - Neelu Nawani
- Microbial Diversity Research Centre, Dr. D. Y. Patil Biotechnology and Bioinformatics Institute, Pune, India
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10
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Avitabile E, Menotti L, Croatti V, Giordani B, Parolin C, Vitali B. Protective Mechanisms of Vaginal Lactobacilli against Sexually Transmitted Viral Infections. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:9168. [PMID: 39273118 PMCID: PMC11395631 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25179168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2024] [Revised: 08/16/2024] [Accepted: 08/21/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
The healthy cervicovaginal microbiota is dominated by various Lactobacillus species, which support a condition of eubiosis. Among their many functions, vaginal lactobacilli contribute to the maintenance of an acidic pH, produce antimicrobial compounds, and modulate the host immune response to protect against vaginal bacterial and fungal infections. Increasing evidence suggests that these beneficial bacteria may also confer protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) caused by viruses such as human papillomavirus (HPV), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and herpes simplex virus (HSV). Viral STIs pose a substantial public health burden globally, causing a range of infectious diseases with potentially severe consequences. Understanding the molecular mechanisms by which lactobacilli exert their protective effects against viral STIs is paramount for the development of novel preventive and therapeutic strategies. This review aims to provide more recent insights into the intricate interactions between lactobacilli and viral STIs, exploring their impact on the vaginal microenvironment, host immune response, viral infectivity and pathogenesis, and highlighting their potential implications for public health interventions and clinical management strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Avitabile
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy
| | - Laura Menotti
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy
| | - Vanessa Croatti
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy
| | - Barbara Giordani
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy
| | - Carola Parolin
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy
| | - Beatrice Vitali
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy
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11
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Armstrong E, Hemmerling A, Miller S, Huibner S, Kulikova M, Liu R, Crawford E, Castañeda GR, Coburn B, Cohen CR, Kaul R. Vaginal fungi are associated with treatment-induced shifts in the vaginal microbiota and with a distinct genital immune profile. Microbiol Spectr 2024; 12:e0350123. [PMID: 38912808 PMCID: PMC11302301 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.03501-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Vaginal colonization by fungi may elicit genital inflammation and enhance the risk of adverse reproductive health outcomes, such as HIV acquisition. Cross-sectional studies have linked fungi with an absence of bacterial vaginosis (BV), but it is unclear whether shifts in vaginal bacteria alter the abundance of vaginal fungi. Vaginal swabs collected following topical metronidazole treatment for BV during the phase 2b, placebo-controlled trial of LACTIN-V, a Lactobacillus crispatus-based live biotherapeutic, were assayed with semi-quantitative PCR for the relative quantitation of fungi and key bacterial species and multiplex immunoassay for immune factors. Vaginal fungi increased immediately following metronidazole treatment for BV (adjusted P = 0.0006), with most of this increase attributable to Candida albicans. Vaginal fungi were independently linked to elevated levels of the proinflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL) 17A, although this association did not remain significant after correcting for multiple comparisons. Fungal relative abundance by semi-quantitative PCR returned to baseline levels within 1 month of metronidazole treatment and was not affected by LACTIN-V or placebo administration. Fungal abundance was positively associated with Lactobacillus species, negatively associated with BV-associated bacteria, and positively associated with a variety of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines, including IL-17A, during and after study product administration. Antibiotic treatment for BV resulted in a transient expanded abundance of vaginal fungi in a subset of women which was unaffected by subsequent administration of LACTIN-V. Vaginal fungi were positively associated with Lactobacillus species and IL-17A and negatively associated with BV-associated bacteria; these associations were most pronounced in the longer-term outcomes.IMPORTANCEVaginal colonization by fungi can enhance the risk of adverse reproductive health outcomes and HIV acquisition, potentially by eliciting genital mucosal inflammation. We show that standard antibiotic treatment for bacterial vaginosis (BV) results in a transient increase in the absolute abundance of vaginal fungi, most of which was identified as Candida albicans. Vaginal fungi were positively associated with proinflammatory immune factors and negatively associated with BV-associated bacteria. These findings improve our understanding of how shifts in the bacterial composition of the vaginal microbiota may enhance proliferation by proinflammatory vaginal fungi, which may have important implications for risk of adverse reproductive health outcomes among women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Armstrong
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Anke Hemmerling
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Steve Miller
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Delve Bio, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Sanja Huibner
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Maria Kulikova
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Rachel Liu
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Emily Crawford
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | | | - Bryan Coburn
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Craig R. Cohen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Rupert Kaul
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
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12
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Mitchell CM. Assessment and Treatment of Vaginitis. Obstet Gynecol 2024:00006250-990000000-01111. [PMID: 38991218 DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000005673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
Vaginitis is the presenting symptom at millions of office visits each year in the United States. Although treatment of sporadic cases is often straightforward, recurrent cases present both diagnostic and treatment challenges. Molecular diagnostic tests are likely superior to in-office microscopy for most clinicians and most cases. In both recurrent bacterial vaginosis and recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis, national treatment guidelines recommend an extended treatment duration with one of the first-line agents. In cases in which such treatment is not successful, vaginal boric acid is likely the cheapest and easiest alternative option. New antifungal medications offer additional but limited treatment options. Probiotics are not recommended for prevention of vulvovaginal candidiasis; however, vaginal products containing Lactobacillus crispatus may have promise for recurrent bacterial vaginosis. Trichomoniasis should be treated with a 1-week course of metronidazole; this is the only sexually transmitted infection for which treatment recommendations vary by sex. In cases in which patients do not respond to initial treatment, the diagnosis should be reconsidered, and other potential causes such as desquamative inflammatory vaginitis, genitourinary syndrome of menopause, or vulvodynia should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline M Mitchell
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Harvard Medical School, and the Vulvovaginal Disorders Program, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
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13
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Lachyan A, Khunger N, Panda PS. Bacterial vaginosis and biofilms: Therapeutic challenges and innovations - A narrative review. Indian J Dermatol Venereol Leprol 2024; 0:1-5. [PMID: 39152871 DOI: 10.25259/ijdvl_1322_2023] [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: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
Bacterial vaginosis (BV), characterised by an imbalance in vaginal microbiota, frequently leading to recurrent episodes, has garnered recent research attention due to the significance of biofilms in its pathogenesis. BV biofilms contribute to recurrence by providing a shelter for harmful bacteria, rendering them resistant to conventional treatment. Objectives of this review include characterising BV biofilms, evaluating the limitations of current antibiotic therapy, highlighting emerging solutions and emphasising multifaceted approaches. The review presents data from clinical studies and trials on biofilm-focused treatments which might reduce BV recurrence, with the ultimate goal of improving the quality of life of women with BV and reducing its burden on their reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Lachyan
- Apex Regional STD Centre & SRL-HIV, Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Niti Khunger
- Department of Dermatology & STD and Apex Regional STD Centre, Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Pragyan Swagatika Panda
- Department of Microbiology, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College, Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, India
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14
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Armstrong E, Hemmerling A, Miller S, Huibner S, Kulikova M, Crawford E, Castañeda GR, Coburn B, Cohen CR, Kaul R. Vaginal Lactobacillus crispatus persistence following application of a live biotherapeutic product: colonization phenotypes and genital immune impact. MICROBIOME 2024; 12:110. [PMID: 38907268 PMCID: PMC11191164 DOI: 10.1186/s40168-024-01828-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bacterial vaginosis (BV) increases HIV acquisition risk, potentially by eliciting genital inflammation. After BV treatment, the vaginal administration of LACTIN-V, a live biotherapeutic containing the Lactobacillus crispatus strain CTV-05, reduced BV recurrence and vaginal inflammation; however, 3 months after product cessation, CTV-05 colonization was only sustained in 48% of participants. RESULTS This nested sub-study in 32 participants receiving LACTIN-V finds that 72% (23/32) demonstrate clinically relevant colonization (CTV-05 absolute abundance > 106 CFU/mL) during at least one visit while 28% (9/32) of women demonstrate colonization resistance, even during product administration. Immediately prior to LACTIN-V administration, the colonization-resistant group exhibited elevated vaginal microbiota diversity. During LACTIN-V administration, colonization resistance was associated with elevated vaginal markers of epithelial disruption and reduced chemokines, possibly due to elevated absolute abundance of BV-associated species and reduced L. crispatus. Colonization permissive women were stratified into sustained and transient colonization groups (31% and 41% of participants, respectively) based on CTV-05 colonization after cessation of product administration. These groups also exhibited distinct genital immune profiles during LACTIN-V administration. CONCLUSIONS The genital immune impact of LACTIN-V may be contingent on the CTV-05 colonization phenotype, which is in turn partially dependent on the success of BV clearance prior to LACTIN-V administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Armstrong
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
| | - Anke Hemmerling
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | - Steve Miller
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | - Sanja Huibner
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Maria Kulikova
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Emily Crawford
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | | | - Bryan Coburn
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Craig R Cohen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | - Rupert Kaul
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
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15
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Hemmerling A, Wierzbicki MR, Armstrong E, Cohen CR. Response to Antibiotic Treatment of Bacterial Vaginosis Predicts the Effectiveness of LACTIN-V (Lactobacillus crispatus CTV-05) in the Prevention of Recurrent Disease. Sex Transm Dis 2024; 51:437-440. [PMID: 38733973 PMCID: PMC11090451 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Live biotherapeutic products (LBPs) containing vaginal Lactobacillus crispatus are promising adjuvant treatments to prevent recurrent bacterial vaginosis (BV) but may depend on the success of initial antibiotic treatment. METHODS A post hoc analysis of data collected during the phase 2b LACTIN-V randomized control trial (L. crispatus CTV-05) explored the impact of clinical BV cure defined as Amsel criteria 0 of 3 (excluding pH, per 2019 Food and Drug Administration guidance) 2 days after completion of treatment with vaginal metronidazole gel on the effectiveness of an 11-week LACTIN-V dosing regimen to prevent BV recurrence by 12 and 24 weeks. RESULTS At enrollment, 88% of participants had achieved postantibiotic clinical BV cure. The effect of LACTIN-V on BV recurrence compared with placebo differed by initial clinical BV cure status. The LACTIN-V to placebo risk ratio of BV recurrence by 12 weeks was 0.56 (95% confidence interval, 0.35-0.77) among participants with initial clinical BV cure after metronidazole treatment and 1.34 (95% confidence interval, 0.47-2.23) among participants without postantibiotic clinical BV cure. Among women receiving LACTIN-V, those who had achieved postantibiotic clinical BV cure at enrollment reached higher levels of detectable L. crispatus CTV-05 compared with women failing to achieve postantibiotic clinical BV cure. CONCLUSIONS LACTIN-V seems to only decrease BV recurrence in women with clinical cure of BV after initial antibiotic treatment. Future trials of LBPs should consider limiting enrollment to these women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anke Hemmerling
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA. USA
| | | | - Eric Armstrong
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON. Canada
| | - Craig R. Cohen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA. USA
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16
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Sobel J. Achieving Effective Probiotic Therapy in Bacterial Vaginosis-Still an Unanswered Priority? Sex Transm Dis 2024; 51:441-443. [PMID: 38733974 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Jack Sobel
- From the Department of Internal Medicine, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
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17
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Lazarus JE, Gupta K. Recurrent UTI in Women-Risk Factors and Management. Infect Dis Clin North Am 2024; 38:325-341. [PMID: 38599896 DOI: 10.1016/j.idc.2024.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common in women; more than 50% of women will be diagnosed with a UTI in her lifetime. Many of these women will go on to develop recurrent UTI. Nevertheless, evidence-based prevention of recurrent UTI is under-utilized. Here, the authors provide detailed practical advice on UTI prevention with a thorough review of the evidence. Non-antibiotic prevention measures discussed include increased fluid intake, vaginal estrogen therapy, methenamine, and cranberry. Antibiotic prophyalxis for carefully selected patients is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob E Lazarus
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit Street, GRJ 512C, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kalpana Gupta
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System, 1400 VFW Parkway, Executive Suite, West Roxbury, MA 02132, USA; Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.
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18
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Powell AM, Ali Khan FZ, Ravel J, Elovitz MA. Untangling Associations of Microbiomes of Pregnancy and Preterm Birth. Clin Perinatol 2024; 51:425-439. [PMID: 38705650 PMCID: PMC11070640 DOI: 10.1016/j.clp.2024.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
This review illuminates the complex interplay between various maternal microbiomes and their influence on preterm birth (PTB), a driving and persistent contributor to neonatal morbidity and mortality. Here, we examine the dynamics of oral, gastrointestinal (gut), placental, and vaginal microbiomes, dissecting their roles in the pathogenesis of PTB. Importantly, focusing on the vaginal microbiome and PTB, the review highlights (1) a protective role of Lactobacillus species; (2) an increased risk with select anaerobes; and (3) the influence of social health determinants on the composition of vaginal microbial communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Maya Powell
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 600 North Wolfe Street, Phipps 249, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Fouzia Zahid Ali Khan
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 600 North Wolfe Street, Phipps 249, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Jacques Ravel
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute for Genome Sciences, 670 West Baltimore Street, 3rd Floor, Room 3173, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Michal A Elovitz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women's Health Research, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Women's Biomedical Research Institute, 1468 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10029, USA.
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19
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Nelwan EJ, Herdiman A, Kalaij AGI, Lauditta RK, Yusuf SM, Suarthana E. Role of probiotic as adjuvant in treating various infections: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Infect Dis 2024; 24:505. [PMID: 38773400 PMCID: PMC11106949 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-024-09259-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research on the advantages of probiotics has attracted increasing interest based on the number of publications, products, and public awareness of their benefits. This review evaluated the role of probiotics (single and multiple regimens) as an additional regimen to treat common infectious diseases, including Helicobacter. pylori, diarrheal infections, urinary tract infections (UTIs), upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs), and HIV infections. METHODS We searched randomized controlled trials from PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Cochrane and identified 6,950 studies. Duplicates were removed, and titles and abstracts were filtered. Bias was evaluated using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool for Randomized Trials (ROB 1.0 and 2.0). The certainty of the evidence was evaluated using GRADE. Data were extracted and meta-analysis was performed using RevMan. RESULTS A total of 32 studies were included in this study (22 H. pylori studies, 2 diarrheal infection studies, 6 UTI studies, and 2 HIV infection studies). There was no study on URTI. Probiotics, in addition to primary treatment, could improve the eradication of H. pylori versus the control (RR: 1.09; 95% CI:1.04 - 1.13, p value = 0.001) and achieve a cure range of Nugent score in UTI patients (RR 1.38; 95% CI: 1.01 - 1.89, p value = 0.04). For eradicating H. pylori infection, subgroup analysis based on the therapy regimen showed that standard triple therapy was slightly superior compared to quadruple therapy in eradicating H. pylori (RR: 1.14 vs. 1.01, respectively). Single strain probiotics showed a similar effect to multiple strain probiotic regimens (both had an RR of 1.09). The effect estimates of the use of single strain probiotics as adjuvant therapy in eradicating H. pylori and the use of probiotics in UTI had a high certainty of evidence. Meta-analysis was not performed for infectious diarrheal because there were only two eligible studies with different probiotic supplementations and outcome parameters. Nonetheless, they showed that the diarrheal incidence was lower and complete remission of diarrheal was higher after the regimen of probiotics. Similarly, a meta-analysis was not performed for HIV infection because the two eligible studies used different designs and comparators with contradicting findings. CONCLUSION This meta-analysis showed beneficial use of single strain probiotics as adjuvant therapy in eradicating H. pylori and the use of probiotics in UTI. Probiotic supplementation might not be beneficial for patients given a quadruple therapy. Single-strain and multi-strain probiotic regimens had similar effects in increasing the eradication rate of H. pylori. Our study also suggested that the benefits of probiotics as an additional regimen in infectious diarrheal and HIV infections remain unclear; more studies are needed to confirm the benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erni Juwita Nelwan
- Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, DKI Jakarta, 10430, Indonesia.
- Division of Tropical and Infectious Disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, DKI Jakarta, 10430, Indonesia.
- Infectious Disease and Immunology Research Center, Indonesia Medical and Education Research Institute (IMERI), Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, DKI Jakarta, 10430, Indonesia.
| | - Allerma Herdiman
- Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, DKI Jakarta, 10430, Indonesia
| | | | - Richella Khansa Lauditta
- Division of Tropical and Infectious Disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, DKI Jakarta, 10430, Indonesia
| | - Syarif Maulana Yusuf
- Infectious Disease and Immunology Research Center, Indonesia Medical and Education Research Institute (IMERI), Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, DKI Jakarta, 10430, Indonesia
| | - Eva Suarthana
- Health Technology Assessment Unit (TAU) of the McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Canada
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20
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Murphy K, Shi Q, Hoover DR, Adimora AA, Alcaide ML, Brockmann S, Daubert E, Duggal P, Merenstein D, Dionne JA, Sheth AN, Keller MJ, Herold BC, Anastos K, Aouizerat B. Genetic predictors for bacterial vaginosis in women living with and at risk for HIV infection. Am J Reprod Immunol 2024; 91:e13845. [PMID: 38720636 PMCID: PMC11410097 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Bacterial vaginosis (BV) disproportionally impacts Black and Hispanic women, placing them at risk for HIV, sexually transmitted infections and preterm birth. It is unknown whether there are differences by genetic ancestry in BV risk or whether polymorphisms associated with BV risk differ by ancestry. METHODS Women's Interagency HIV Study (WIHS) participants with longitudinal Nugent scores were dichotomized as having (n = 319, Nugent 7-10) or not having BV (n = 367, Nugent 0-3). Genetic ancestry was defined by clustering of principal components from ancestry informative markers and further stratified by BV status. 627 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) across 41 genes important in mucosal defense were identified in the WIHS GWAS. A logistic regression analysis was adjusted for nongenetic predictors of BV and self-reported race/ethnicity to assess associations between genetic ancestry and genotype. RESULTS Self-reported race and genetic ancestry were associated with BV risk after adjustment for behavioral factors. Polymorphisms in mucosal defense genes including syndecans, cytokines and toll-like receptors (TLRs) were associated with BV in all ancestral groups. CONCLUSIONS The common association of syndecan, cytokine and TLR genes and the importance of immune function and inflammatory pathways in BV, suggests these should be targeted for further research on BV pathogenesis and therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerry Murphy
- Departments of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
- Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Quihu Shi
- School of Health Sciences and Practice, New York Medical College, Valhalla, New York, USA
| | - Donald R Hoover
- Department of Statistics and Institute for Health, Health Care Policy and Aging Research Rutgers the State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Adaora A Adimora
- Department of Medicine, UNC School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Maria L Alcaide
- Department of Medicine, Obstetrics & Gynecology and Public Health, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, USA
| | - Susan Brockmann
- Health Sciences Center, State University of New York, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Elizabeth Daubert
- Cook County Health/Hektoen Institute of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Priya Duggal
- Department of Epidemiology and International Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Jodie A Dionne
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Anandi N Sheth
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Marla J Keller
- Departments of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
- Obstetrics & Gynecology and Women's Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Betsy C Herold
- Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
- Pediatrics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Kathryn Anastos
- Departments of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
- Obstetrics & Gynecology and Women's Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
- Epidemiology & Population Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
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21
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Kawai T, Harada M, Yamada K, Ugomori R, Osuga Y. The prevalence of vulvovaginal symptoms in Japanese women of reproductive and perimenopausal ages: A cross-sectional study across generations. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2024; 50:914-919. [PMID: 38438124 DOI: 10.1111/jog.15917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
AIM This cross-sectional study evaluated vaginal health and hygiene practices among reproductive and perimenopausal women in Japan using an online-based questionnaire. METHODS The questionnaire included 11 well-structured questions concerning vulvovaginal symptoms and hygiene care practices. Participants' responses were anonymized and analyzed descriptively. The relationships of age, family income, occupation, and childbearing with women's concerns regarding vaginal or vulvar problems were analyzed by chi-square tests. RESULTS About 80% of women in their 20s to 50s in Japan reported experiencing vulvovaginal symptoms. Women in their 40s had significantly fewer symptoms than women in their 20s (p = 0.04), and women in their 50s had significantly fewer symptoms than all other age groups (20s, 30s, and 40s) (p < 0.001). Among symptomatic women, 77.5% did not discuss their symptoms with anyone else and only 10% visited doctors. About 12.5% of women reported taking special care of their vagina or vulva regularly, whereas 38.2% expressed a desire to try some form of care but had not yet done so. Of the women who did not take special care of their vagina or vulva, 46.2% lacked knowledge about proper care, 42.2% did not want to spend money on care, 30.5% did not want to discuss care with others, and 21.3% were psychologically reluctant. CONCLUSION Determination of the prevalence of vulvovaginal symptoms among Japanese women can enhance understanding of this prevalent condition and its impact on women's health. These findings may help formulate effective public health interventions and promote better hygienic practices, thus improving the well-being of women in Japan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takao Kawai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Miyuki Harada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Katsuki Yamada
- Biolier Business Department, Teijin Limited, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Rui Ugomori
- Biolier Business Department, Teijin Limited, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yutaka Osuga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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22
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Blumenfeld YJ, Marić I, Stevenson DK, Gibbs RS, Shaw GM. Persistent Bacterial Vaginosis and Risk for Spontaneous Preterm Birth. Am J Perinatol 2024; 41:e2081-e2088. [PMID: 37379861 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1770703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to determine the association between persistent bacterial vaginosis (BV) in pregnancy and risk for spontaneous preterm birth (sPTB). STUDY DESIGN Retrospective data from IBM MarketScan Commercial Database were analyzed. Women aged between 12 and 55 years with singleton gestations were included and linked to an outpatient medications database and medications prescribed during the pregnancy were analyzed. BV in pregnancy was determined based on both a diagnosis of BV and treatment with metronidazole and/or clindamycin, and persistent treatment of BV was defined as BV in more than one trimester or BV requiring more than one antibiotic prescription. Odds ratios were calculated comparing sPTB frequencies in those with BV, or persistent BV, to women without BV in pregnancy. Survival analysis using Kaplan-Meier curves for the gestational age at delivery was also performed. RESULTS Among a cohort of 2,538,606 women, 216,611 had an associated International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision or 10th Revision code for diagnosis of BV alone, and 63,817 had both a diagnosis of BV and were treated with metronidazole and/or clindamycin. Overall, the frequency of sPTB among women treated with BV was 7.5% compared with 5.7% for women without BV who did not receive antibiotics. Relative to those without BV in pregnancy, odds ratios for sPTB were highest in those treated for BV in both the first and second trimester (1.66 [95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.52, 1.81]) or those with three or more prescriptions in pregnancy (1.48 [95% CI: 1.35, 1.63]. CONCLUSION Persistent BV may have a higher risk for sPTB than a single episode of BV in pregnancy. KEY POINTS · Persistent BV beyond one trimester may increase the risk for sPTB.. · Persistent BV requiring more than one prescription may increase the risk for sPTB.. · Almost half of antibiotic prescriptions treating BV in pregnancy are filled after 20 weeks gestation..
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Affiliation(s)
- Yair J Blumenfeld
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Ivana Marić
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, March of Dimes Prematurity Research Center, Stanford, California
| | - David K Stevenson
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, March of Dimes Prematurity Research Center, Stanford, California
| | - Ronald S Gibbs
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Gary M Shaw
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, March of Dimes Prematurity Research Center, Stanford, California
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23
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Odendaal J, Black N, Bennett PR, Brosens J, Quenby S, MacIntyre DA. The endometrial microbiota and early pregnancy loss. Hum Reprod 2024; 39:638-646. [PMID: 38195891 PMCID: PMC10988105 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
The human endometrium is a dynamic entity that plays a pivotal role in mediating the complex interplay between the mother and developing embryo. Endometrial disruption can lead to pregnancy loss, impacting both maternal physical and psychological health. Recent research suggests that the endometrial microbiota may play a role in this, although the exact mechanisms are still being explored, aided by recent technological advancements and our growing understanding of host immune responses. Suboptimal or dysbiotic vaginal microbiota, characterized by increased microbial diversity and reduced Lactobacillus dominance, has been associated with various adverse reproductive events, including miscarriage. However, the mechanisms linking the lower reproductive tract microbiota with pregnancy loss remain unclear. Recent observational studies implicate a potential microbial continuum between the vaginal and endometrial niche in patients with pregnancy loss; however, transcervical sampling of the low biomass endometrium is highly prone to cross-contamination, which is often not controlled for. In this review, we explore emerging evidence supporting the theory that a dysbiotic endometrial microbiota may modulate key inflammatory pathways required for successful embryo implantation and pregnancy development. We also highlight that a greater understanding of the endometrial microbiota, its relationship with the local endometrial microenvironment, and potential interventions remain a focus for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Odendaal
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Clinical Sciences Research Laboratories, Warwick Medical School, Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
- University Hospitals Coventry & Warwickshire, Coventry, UK
| | - Naomi Black
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Clinical Sciences Research Laboratories, Warwick Medical School, Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
- University Hospitals Coventry & Warwickshire, Coventry, UK
| | - Phillip R Bennett
- Tommy’s National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Imperial College London, London, UK
- March of Dimes Prematurity Research Centre at Imperial College London, London, UK
- Imperial College Parturition Research Group, Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Jan Brosens
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Clinical Sciences Research Laboratories, Warwick Medical School, Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
- University Hospitals Coventry & Warwickshire, Coventry, UK
| | - Siobhan Quenby
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Clinical Sciences Research Laboratories, Warwick Medical School, Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
- University Hospitals Coventry & Warwickshire, Coventry, UK
| | - David A MacIntyre
- Tommy’s National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Imperial College London, London, UK
- March of Dimes Prematurity Research Centre at Imperial College London, London, UK
- Imperial College Parturition Research Group, Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
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24
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Brennan C, Chan K, Kumar T, Maissy E, Brubaker L, Dothard MI, Gilbert JA, Gilbert KE, Lewis AL, Thackray VG, Zarrinpar A, Knight R. Harnessing the power within: engineering the microbiome for enhanced gynecologic health. REPRODUCTION AND FERTILITY 2024; 5:e230060. [PMID: 38513356 PMCID: PMC11046331 DOI: 10.1530/raf-23-0060] [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: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Abstract Although numerous studies have demonstrated the impact of microbiome manipulation on human health, research on the microbiome's influence on female health remains relatively limited despite substantial disease burden. In light of this, we present a selected review of clinical trials and preclinical studies targeting both the vaginal and gut microbiomes for the prevention or treatment of various gynecologic conditions. Specifically, we explore studies that leverage microbiota transplants, probiotics, prebiotics, diet modifications, and engineered microbial strains. A healthy vaginal microbiome for females of reproductive age consists of lactic acid-producing bacteria predominantly of the Lactobacillus genus, which serves as a protective barrier against pathogens and maintains a balanced ecosystem. The gut microbiota's production of short-chain fatty acids, metabolism of primary bile acids, and modulation of sex steroid levels have significant implications for the interplay between host and microbes throughout the body, ultimately impacting reproductive health. By harnessing interventions that modulate both the vaginal and gut microbiomes, it becomes possible to not only maintain homeostasis but also mitigate pathological conditions. While the field is still working toward making broad clinical recommendations, the current studies demonstrate that manipulating the microbiome holds great potential for addressing diverse gynecologic conditions. Lay summary Manipulating the microbiome has recently entered popular culture, with various diets thought to aid the microbes that live within us. These microbes live in different locations of our body and accordingly help us digest food, modulate our immune system, and influence reproductive health. The role of the microbes living in and influencing the female reproductive tract remains understudied despite known roles in common conditions such as vulvovaginal candidiasis (affecting 75% of females in their lifetime), bacterial vaginosis (25% of females in their lifetime), cervical HPV infection (80% of females in their lifetime), endometriosis (6-10% of females of reproductive age), and polycystic ovary syndrome (10-12% of females of reproductive age). Here, we review four different approaches used to manipulate the female reproductive tract and gastrointestinal system microbiomes: microbiota transplants, probiotics, prebiotics, and dietary interventions, and the use of engineered microbial strains. In doing so, we aim to stimulate discussion on new ways to understand and treat female reproductive health conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitriona Brennan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Kristina Chan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Tanya Kumar
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Erica Maissy
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Linda Brubaker
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Marisol I Dothard
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Jack A Gilbert
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Center for Microbiome Innovation, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Katharine E Gilbert
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Amanda L Lewis
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Varykina G Thackray
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Center for Microbiome Innovation, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Amir Zarrinpar
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Center for Microbiome Innovation, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Jennifer Moreno Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, La Jolla, California, USA
- Institute of Diabetes and Metabolic Health, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Rob Knight
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Center for Microbiome Innovation, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Halıcıoğlu Data Science Institute, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
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25
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Carter KA, France MT, Rutt L, Bilski L, Martinez-Greiwe S, Regan M, Brotman RM, Ravel J. Sexual transmission of urogenital bacteria: whole metagenome sequencing evidence from a sexual network study. mSphere 2024; 9:e0003024. [PMID: 38358269 PMCID: PMC10964427 DOI: 10.1128/msphere.00030-24] [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: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Sexual transmission of the urogenital microbiota may contribute to adverse sexual and reproductive health outcomes. The extent of sexual transmission of the urogenital microbiota is unclear as prior studies largely investigated specific pathogens. We used epidemiologic data and whole metagenome sequencing to characterize urogenital microbiota strain concordance between participants of a sexual network study. Individuals who screened positive for genital Chlamydia trachomatis were enrolled and referred their sexual contacts from the prior 60-180 days. Snowball recruitment of sexual contacts continued for up to four waves. Vaginal swabs and penile urethral swabs were collected for whole metagenome sequencing. We evaluated bacterial strain concordance using inStrain and network analysis. We defined concordance as ≥99.99% average nucleotide identity over ≥50% shared coverage; we defined putative sexual transmission as concordance between sexual contacts with <5 single-nucleotide polymorphisms per megabase. Of 138 participants, 74 (54%) were female; 120 (87%) had genital chlamydia; and 43 (31%) were recruited contacts. We identified 115 strain-concordance events among 54 participants representing 25 bacterial species. Seven events (6%) were between sexual contacts including putative heterosexual transmission of Fannyhessea vaginae, Gardnerella leopoldii, Prevotella amnii, Sneathia sanguinegens, and Sneathia vaginalis (one strain each), and putative sexual transmission of Lactobacillus iners between female contacts. Most concordance events (108, 94%) were between non-contacts, including eight female participants connected through 18 Lactobacillus crispatus and 3 Lactobacillus jensenii concordant strains, and 14 female and 2 male participants densely interconnected through 52 Gardnerella swidsinskii concordance events.IMPORTANCEEpidemiologic evidence consistently indicates bacterial vaginosis (BV) is sexually associated and may be sexually transmitted, though sexual transmission remains subject to debate. This study is not capable of demonstrating BV sexual transmission; however, we do provide strain-level metagenomic evidence that strongly supports heterosexual transmission of BV-associated species. These findings strengthen the evidence base that supports ongoing investigations of concurrent male partner treatment for reducing BV recurrence. Our data suggest that measuring the impact of male partner treatment on F. vaginae, G. leopoldii, P. amnii, S. sanguinegens, and S. vaginalis may provide insight into why a regimen does or does not perform well. We also observed a high degree of strain concordance between non-sexual-contact female participants. We posit that this may reflect limited dispersal capacity of vaginal bacteria coupled with individuals' comembership in regional transmission networks where transmission may occur between parent and child at birth, cohabiting individuals, or sexual contacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayla A. Carter
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Michael T. France
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Lindsay Rutt
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Lisa Bilski
- School of Nursing, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Mary Regan
- School of Nursing, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Rebecca M. Brotman
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Jacques Ravel
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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26
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Song J, Dong X, Lan Y, Lu Y, Liu X, Kang X, Huang Z, Yue B, Liu Y, Ma W, Zhang L, Yan H, He M, Fan Z, Guo T. Interpretation of vaginal metagenomic characteristics in different types of vaginitis. mSystems 2024; 9:e0137723. [PMID: 38364107 PMCID: PMC10949516 DOI: 10.1128/msystems.01377-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Although vaginitis is closely related to vaginal microecology in females, the precise composition and functional potential of different types of vaginitis remain unclear. Here, metagenomic sequencing was applied to analyze the vaginal flora in patients with various forms of vaginitis, including cases with a clue cell proportion ranging from 1% to 20% (Clue1_20), bacterial vaginitis (BV), vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), and BV combined with VVC (VVC_BV). Our results identified Prevotella as an important biomarker between BV and Clue1_20. Moreover, a gradual decrease was observed in the relative abundance of shikimic acid metabolism associated with bacteria producing indole as well as a decline in the abundance of Gardnerella vaginalis in patients with BV, Clue1_20, and healthy women. Interestingly, the vaginal flora of patients in the VVC_BV group exhibited structural similarities to that of the VVC group, and its potentially functional characteristics resembled those of the BV and VVC groups. Finally, Lactobacillus crispatus was found in high abundance in healthy samples, greatly contributing to the stability of the vaginal environment. For the further study of L. crispatus, we isolated five strains of L. crispatus from healthy samples and evaluated their capacity to inhibit G. vaginalis biofilms and produce lactic acid in vitro to select the potential probiotic candidate for improving vaginitis in future clinical studies. Overall, we successfully identified bacterial biomarkers of different vaginitis and characterized the dynamic shifts in vaginal flora between patients with BV and healthy females. This research advances our understanding and holds great promise in enhancing clinical approaches for the treatment of vaginitis. IMPORTANCE Vaginitis is one of the most common gynecological diseases, mostly caused by infections of pathogens such as Candida albicans and Gardnerella vaginalis. In recent years, it has been found that the stability of the vaginal flora plays an important role in vaginitis. Furthermore, the abundant Lactobacillus-producing rich lactic acid in the vagina provides a healthy acidic environment such as Lactobacillus crispatus. The metabolites of Lactobacillus can inhibit the colonization of pathogens. Here, we collected the vaginal samples of patients with bacterial vaginitis (BV), vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), and BV combined with VVC to discover the differences and relationships among the different kinds of vaginitis by metagenomic sequencing. Furthermore, because of the importance of L. crispatus in promoting vaginal health, we isolated multiple strains from vaginal samples of healthy females and chose the most promising strain with potential probiotic benefits to provide clinical implications for treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiarong Song
- Key Laboratory of Bioresources and Ecoenvironment (Ministry of Education), College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xue Dong
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yue Lan
- Key Laboratory of Bioresources and Ecoenvironment (Ministry of Education), College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yunwei Lu
- Key Laboratory of Bioresources and Ecoenvironment (Ministry of Education), College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xu Liu
- Key Laboratory of Bioresources and Ecoenvironment (Ministry of Education), College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xuena Kang
- Key Laboratory of Bioresources and Ecoenvironment (Ministry of Education), College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhonglu Huang
- Meishan Women and Children’s Hospital, Meishan, Sichuan, China
| | - Bisong Yue
- Key Laboratory of Bioresources and Ecoenvironment (Ministry of Education), College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yu Liu
- Institute of Blood Transfusion, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Wenjin Ma
- Chenghua District Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Libo Zhang
- Renshou County People’s Hospital, Renshou, Sichuan, China
| | - Haijun Yan
- Meishan Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Meishan, Sichuan, China
| | - Miao He
- Institute of Blood Transfusion, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Zhenxin Fan
- Key Laboratory of Bioresources and Ecoenvironment (Ministry of Education), College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Tao Guo
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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27
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Gao H, Liu Q, Wang X, Li T, Li H, Li G, Tan L, Chen Y. Deciphering the role of female reproductive tract microbiome in reproductive health: a review. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1351540. [PMID: 38562966 PMCID: PMC10982509 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1351540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Relevant studies increasingly indicate that female reproductive health is confronted with substantial challenges. Emerging research has revealed that the microbiome interacts with the anatomy, histology, and immunity of the female reproductive tract, which are the cornerstone of maintaining female reproductive health and preventing adverse pregnancy outcomes. Currently, the precise mechanisms underlying their interaction and impact on physiological functions of the reproductive tract remain elusive, constituting a prominent area of investigation within the field of female reproductive tract microecology. From this new perspective, we explore the mechanisms of interactions between the microbiome and the anatomy, histology, and immunity of the female reproductive tract, factors that affect the composition of the microbiome in the female reproductive tract, as well as personalized medicine approaches in managing female reproductive tract health based on the microbiome. This study highlights the pivotal role of the female reproductive tract microbiome in maintaining reproductive health and influencing the occurrence of reproductive tract diseases. These findings support the exploration of innovative approaches for the prevention, monitoring and treatment of female reproductive tract diseases based on the microbiome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Gao
- Nursing Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Qiao Liu
- School of Nursing, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Xiaolan Wang
- Center for a Combination of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Ting Li
- Department of Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Huanhuan Li
- Department of Gynaecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Genlin Li
- Center for a Combination of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Lingling Tan
- Nursing Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Yahui Chen
- School of Nursing, University of South China, Hengyang, China
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28
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Yazdy GM, Mitchell C, Sobel JD, Tuddenham S. Recurrent Infectious Vaginitis: A Practical Approach for the Primary Care Clinician. Med Clin North Am 2024; 108:373-392. [PMID: 38331486 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcna.2023.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Recurrent infectious vaginitis can lead to significant morbidity, patient frustration, and health care costs. The most common causes are bacterial vaginosis (BV) and vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC); however, other infectious and noninfectious etiologies should be considered in patients with recurrent symptoms. A detailed history and physical examination with appropriate testing at the time of symptoms is critical to establishing a correct diagnosis. Management options for recurrent BV and VVC are limited. Complex cases including those with atypical symptoms, negative testing for common causes, refractory symptoms despite appropriate therapy or recurrences during suppressive therapy will require referral to specialist care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Golsa M Yazdy
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, 4940 Eastern Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Caroline Mitchell
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Harvard Medical School, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Jack D Sobel
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Wayne State University, 3901 Chrysler Drive Suite 4A, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
| | - Susan Tuddenham
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University, 5200 Eastern Avenue, MFL Center Tower, Suite 381, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA.
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29
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Mitra A, Gultekin M, Burney Ellis L, Bizzarri N, Bowden S, Taumberger N, Bracic T, Vieira-Baptista P, Sehouli J, Kyrgiou M. Genital tract microbiota composition profiles and use of prebiotics and probiotics in gynaecological cancer prevention: review of the current evidence, the European Society of Gynaecological Oncology prevention committee statement. THE LANCET. MICROBE 2024; 5:e291-e300. [PMID: 38141634 DOI: 10.1016/s2666-5247(23)00257-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/25/2023]
Abstract
Female genital tract (FGT) microbiota has been associated with the development of gynaecological cancers. Thus, the possibility of whether manipulation of the FGT microbiota can help in the prevention of disease should be investigated. Various prebiotics, probiotics, and other non-clinician prescribed agents have been reported to have therapeutic effects in cervical disease. Numerous studies have reported an association between human papillomavirus infection and subsequent cervical dysplasia and a decrease in the abundance of Lactobacillus species. A continuum of microbiota composition is observed from the vagina to the upper parts of the FGT, but no evidence suggests that manipulation of the vaginal microbiota can help to modify the composition of other FGT compartments. Although prebiotics and probiotics have been reported to be beneficial, the studies are small and of varying design, and high-quality evidence to support their use is lacking. Currently, no studies have examined these therapeutics in other gynaecological malignancies. Thus, recommendation of probiotics, prebiotics, or other over-the-counter supplements for the prevention of gynaecological cancers warrants larger, well designed studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita Mitra
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction - Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, UK; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Murat Gultekin
- Division of Gynaecological Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Türkiye
| | - Laura Burney Ellis
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction - Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, UK; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Nicolò Bizzarri
- UOC Ginecologia Oncologica, Dipartimento per la salute della Donna e del Bambino e della Salute Pubblica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Sarah Bowden
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction - Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, UK; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Nadja Taumberger
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria; Hospital Spittal a d Drau, Carinthia, Austria
| | - Taja Bracic
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Pedro Vieira-Baptista
- Department of Gynecology-Obstetrics and Pediatrics, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal; Lower Genital Tract Unit, Centro Hospitalar de São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Jalid Sehouli
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, Berlin, Germany
| | - Maria Kyrgiou
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction - Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, UK; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK.
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Qing W, Shi Y, Chen R, Zou Y, Qi C, Zhang Y, Zhou Z, Li S, Hou Y, Zhou H, Chen M. Species-level resolution for the vaginal microbiota with short amplicons. mSystems 2024; 9:e0103923. [PMID: 38275296 PMCID: PMC10878104 DOI: 10.1128/msystems.01039-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Specific bacterial species have been found to play important roles in human vagina. Achieving high species-level resolution is vital for analyzing vaginal microbiota data. However, contradictory conclusions were yielded from different methodological studies. More comprehensive evaluation is needed for determining an optimal pipeline for vaginal microbiota. Based on the sequences of vaginal bacterial species downloaded from NCBI, we conducted simulated amplification with various primer sets targeting different 16S regions as well as taxonomic classification on the amplicons applying different combinations of algorithms (BLAST+, VSEARCH, and Sklearn) and reference databases (Greengenes2, SILVA, and RDP). Vaginal swabs were collected from participants with different vaginal microecology to construct 16S full-length sequenced mock communities. Both computational and experimental amplifications were performed on the mock samples. Classification accuracy of each pipeline was determined. Microbial profiles were compared between the full-length and partial 16S sequencing samples. The optimal pipeline was further validated in a multicenter cohort against the PCR results of common STI pathogens. Pipeline V1-V3_Sklearn_Combined had the highest accuracy for classifying the amplicons generated from both the NCBI downloaded data (84.20% ± 2.39%) and the full-length sequencing data (95.65% ± 3.04%). Vaginal samples amplified and sequenced targeting the V1-V3 region but merely employing the forward reads (223 bp) and classified using the optimal pipeline, resembled the mock communities the most. The pipeline demonstrated high F1-scores for detecting STI pathogens within the validation cohort. We have determined an optimal pipeline to achieve high species-level resolution for vaginal microbiota with short amplicons, which will facilitate future studies.IMPORTANCEFor vaginal microbiota studies, diverse 16S rRNA gene regions were applied for amplification and sequencing, which affect the comparability between different studies as well as the species-level resolution of taxonomic classification. We conducted comprehensive evaluation on the methods which influence the accuracy for the taxonomic classification and established an optimal pipeline to achieve high species-level resolution for vaginal microbiota with short amplicons, which will facilitate future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Qing
- Microbiome Medicine Center, Division of Laboratory Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yiya Shi
- Microbiome Medicine Center, Division of Laboratory Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Medical Laboratory, The Central Hospital of Wuhan, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Rongdan Chen
- Microbiome Medicine Center, Division of Laboratory Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yin'ai Zou
- Microbiome Medicine Center, Division of Laboratory Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Cancan Qi
- Microbiome Medicine Center, Division of Laboratory Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yingxuan Zhang
- Microbiome Medicine Center, Division of Laboratory Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zuyi Zhou
- Microbiome Medicine Center, Division of Laboratory Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shanshan Li
- Microbiome Medicine Center, Division of Laboratory Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi Hou
- Microbiome Medicine Center, Division of Laboratory Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Shenzhen People’s Hospital, The Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital of South University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Hongwei Zhou
- Microbiome Medicine Center, Division of Laboratory Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Muxuan Chen
- Microbiome Medicine Center, Division of Laboratory Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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Vivekanandan V, Khan ZH, Venugopal G, Musunuru B, Mishra P, Srivastava S, Ramadass B, Subhadra B. VagiBIOM Lactobacillus suppository improves vaginal health index in perimenopausal women with bacterial vaginosis: a randomized control trial. Sci Rep 2024; 14:3317. [PMID: 38336815 PMCID: PMC10858244 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-53770-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) can cause vaginal dysbiosis that may influence general vaginal health and pregnancy complications. Balancing vaginal microbiome using Lactobacillus spp. may be a new way to prevent and treat mild BV. We conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study aimed at evaluating the effect of the product VagiBIOM, a multi-Lactobacillus vaginal suppository, on peri- and premenopausal women with BV in restoring vaginal pH and overall vaginal health by resetting the vaginal microbiome composition. Sixty-six peri- and premenopausal women with BV symptoms were randomized with a 2:1 ratio to be treated with VagiBIOM or placebo suppositories. Vaginal pH, VAS itching score, total Nugent score, and vaginal health index (VHI) were measured. Vaginal microbiome changes before and after the treatment were analyzed by 16S rRNA sequencing and bioinformatics analysis. After 4 weeks of intervention with VagiBIOM or a placebo, the mean score for vaginal pH, VAS itching, and total Nugent score was significantly decreased from the baseline. Compared to the baseline scores, the VHI scores improved significantly following 28-day intervention (p < 0.001). Our results revealed two Lactobacillus species, L. hamsteri, and L. helveticus, as indicator species occurring differentially in the VagiBIOM-treated group. Furthermore, the regression and species network analyses revealed significant bacterial associations after VagiBIOM treatment. Lactobacillus hamsteri was positively associated with the Nugent score and negatively associated with vaginal pH. L. iners and L. salivarius were positively and inversely associated with VHI. As is typical, Bacteroides fragilis was positively associated with vaginal pH and negatively associated with the Nugent score. Interestingly, the Lactobacillus spp. diversity improved after VagiBIOM treatment. The VagiBIOM suppository treatment for peri- and premenopausal women with BV significantly relieved vaginal itching by decreasing vaginal pH and Nugent scores and improving the overall VHI after 4 weeks' intervention. This effect was primarily the result of VagiBIOM improving vaginal Lactobacillus diversity.Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov registration: NCT05060029, first registration 09/28/2021: Title: A Pilot Study to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of Lactobacillus Species Suppositories on Vaginal Health and pH.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zaiba Hasan Khan
- Center of Excellence for Clinical Microbiome Research (CCMR), All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Giriprasad Venugopal
- Center of Excellence for Clinical Microbiome Research (CCMR), All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Bhavana Musunuru
- Center of Excellence for Clinical Microbiome Research (CCMR), All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Priyanka Mishra
- Center of Excellence for Clinical Microbiome Research (CCMR), All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Shalini Srivastava
- Vedic LifeSciences, Clinical Research, Andheri (West), Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Balamurugan Ramadass
- Center of Excellence for Clinical Microbiome Research (CCMR), All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India.
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India.
| | - Bobban Subhadra
- Biom Pharmaceutical Corporation, 2203 Industrial Blvd, Sarasota, FL, USA.
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Tian Z, Zhao M, Sui X, Li X, Qin L, Chen ZJ, Zhao S, Zhao H. Associations between vaginal microbiota and endometrial polypoid lesions in women of reproductive age: a cross-sectional study. Reprod Biomed Online 2024; 48:103602. [PMID: 38101145 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2023.103602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION What are the different characteristics of vaginal microbial composition between patients with endometrial polypoid lesions and controls? DESIGN This cohort study compared the pre-operative microbial compositions of vaginal samples in a cohort of 703 women with endometrial polypoid lesions [293 and 410 women diagnosed and not diagnosed with polyps pathologically (polyps group and not-polyps group, respectively] and 703 women in the control group. Bacterial abundance, diversity, differential taxa and microbial network structure were assessed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Predictive algorithms were used to determine the functional pathways of vaginal microbiota within the cohort. RESULTS The control group exhibited higher relative abundance of Lactobacillus crispatus in comparison with the polypoid lesions group (P = 0.0427). Beta diversity of vaginal microbiota differed significantly between the groups (P < 0.05). Comparing the polyps group with the not-polyps group, Leptotrichia spp. and Cutibacterium spp. were more abundant in the polyps group, and Fannyhessea spp., Acinetobacter spp. and Achromobacter spp. were more abundant in the not-polyps group. The control group exhibited higher abundance of Bifidobacterium spp., Achromobacter spp. and Escherichia/Shigella spp. (false discovery rate < 0.05). Furthermore, the polyps group and not-polyps group displayed more complex co-occurrence networks compared with the control group. CONCLUSIONS The results of this study provide compelling evidence supporting associations between vaginal microbiota and endometrial polypoid lesions, highlighting the potential relationship between a well-balanced vaginal microbial ecosystem and a healthy intrauterine environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaomei Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China; National Research Centre for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Maoning Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China; National Research Centre for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xinlei Sui
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China; National Research Centre for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xiao Li
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China; National Research Centre for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Lang Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China; National Research Centre for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Zi-Jiang Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China; National Research Centre for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China; Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China; Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shigang Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China; National Research Centre for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China; Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Han Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China; National Research Centre for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China; Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China.
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Cao Z, Pang Y, Pu J, Liu J. Bacteria-based drug delivery for treating non-oncological diseases. J Control Release 2024; 366:668-683. [PMID: 38219912 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.01.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Bacteria inhabit all over the human body, especially the skin, gastrointestinal tract, respiratory tract, urogenital tract, as well as specific lesion sites, such as wound and tumor. By leveraging their distinctive attributes including rapid proliferation, inherent abilities to colonize various biointerfaces in vivo and produce diverse biomolecules, and the flexibility to be functionalized via genetic engineering or surface modification, bacteria have been widely developed as living therapeutic agents, showing promising potential to make a great impact on the exploration of advanced drug delivery systems. In this review, we present an overview of bacteria-based drug delivery and its applications in treating non-oncological diseases. We systematically summarize the physiological positions where living bacterial therapeutic agents can be delivered to, including the skin, gastrointestinal tract, respiratory tract, and female genital tract. We discuss the success of using bacteria-based drug delivery systems in the treatment of diseases that occur in specific locations, such as skin wound healing/infection, inflammatory bowel disease, respiratory diseases, and vaginitis. We also discuss the advantages as well as the limitations of these living therapeutics and bacteria-based drug delivery, highlighting the key points that need to be considered for further translation. This review article may provide unique insights for designing next-generation bacteria-based therapeutics and developing advanced drug delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenping Cao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Nucleic Acid Chemistry and Nanomedicine, Institute of Molecular Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Yan Pang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Jun Pu
- Department of Cardiology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China.
| | - Jinyao Liu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Nucleic Acid Chemistry and Nanomedicine, Institute of Molecular Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China.
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van den Tweel MM, van den Munckhof EHA, van der Zanden M, Molijn AC, van Lith JMM, Le Cessie S, Boers KE. Bacterial vaginosis in a subfertile population undergoing fertility treatments: a prospective cohort study. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024; 41:441-450. [PMID: 38087161 PMCID: PMC10894785 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-03000-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study investigates the role of bacterial vaginosis (BV) on pregnancy rates during various fertility treatments. BV is known to influence several obstetric outcomes, such as preterm delivery and endometritis. Only few studies investigated the effect of BV in subfertile women, and studies found a negative effect on fecundity especially in the in vitro fertilisation population. METHODS Observational prospective study, 76 couples attending a fertility clinic in the Netherlands between July 2019 and June 2022, undergoing a total of 133 attempts of intra uterine insemination, in vitro fertilization or intra cytoplasmatic sperm injection. Vaginal samples taken at oocyte retrieval or insemination were analysed on qPCR BV and 16S rRNA gene microbiota analysis of V1-V2 region. Logistic regression with a Generalized Estimated Equations analysis was used to account for multiple observations per couples. RESULTS A total of 26% of the 133 samples tested positive for BV. No significant differences were observed in ongoing pregnancy or live birth rates based on BV status (OR 0.50 (0.16-1.59), aOR 0.32 (0.09-1.23)) or microbiome community state type. There was a tendency of more miscarriages based on positive BV status (OR 4.22 (1.10-16.21), aOR 4.28 (0.65-28.11)) or community state type group III and IV. On baseline qPCR positive participants had significantly higher body mass index and smoked more often. Odds ratios were adjusted for smoking status, body mass index, and socioeconomic status. CONCLUSION Bacterial vaginosis does not significantly impact ongoing pregnancy rates but could affect miscarriage rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marjolein M van den Tweel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300RC, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Haaglanden Medical Center, Bronovolaan 5, 2597AX, The Hague, The Netherlands
| | | | - Moniek van der Zanden
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Haaglanden Medical Center, Bronovolaan 5, 2597AX, The Hague, The Netherlands
| | - Anco C Molijn
- Eurofins NMDL-LCPL, 2288ER, Rijswijk, The Netherlands
| | - Jan M M van Lith
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300RC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Saskia Le Cessie
- Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300RC, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300RC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Kim E Boers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Haaglanden Medical Center, Bronovolaan 5, 2597AX, The Hague, The Netherlands.
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Muraoka A, Yokoi A, Kajiyama H. Emerging bacterial factors for understanding pathogenesis of endometriosis. iScience 2024; 27:108739. [PMID: 38269103 PMCID: PMC10805679 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.108739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The pathogenesis of endometriosis is a complex process, and recent research has introduced novel hypotheses in this field. This review summarizes recent studies on the pathogenesis of endometriosis. We focused on several classical hypotheses, as well as their interactions with the microenvironment of hormonal dependence and immunosuppression. Furthermore, we highlighted the emergence of bacterial factors associated with endometriosis. Recent advances in next-generation sequencing (NGS) have revealed the presence and detailed distribution of these bacteria as well as the involvement of specific bacteria in pathogenesis. These factors alter the microenvironment in the early stages of endometriosis development, leading to lesion formation. Understanding the mechanisms underlying the early development of endometriosis from a new perspective would be helpful for the development of novel therapeutic agents for endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayako Muraoka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | - Akira Yokoi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
- Nagoya University Institute for Advanced Research, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya 464-8603, Japan
- Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST), FOREST, 4-1-8 Honcho, Kawaguchi, Saitama 332-0012, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Kajiyama
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
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Zhu M, Frank MW, Radka CD, Jeanfavre S, Tse MW, Pacheco JA, Pierce K, Deik A, Xu J, Hussain S, Hussain FA, Xulu N, Khan N, Pillay V, Dong KL, Ndung’u T, Clish CB, Rock CO, Blainey PC, Bloom SM, Kwon DS. Vaginal Lactobacillus fatty acid response mechanisms reveal a novel strategy for bacterial vaginosis treatment. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.12.30.573720. [PMID: 38234804 PMCID: PMC10793477 DOI: 10.1101/2023.12.30.573720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
Bacterial vaginosis (BV), a common syndrome characterized by Lactobacillus-deficient vaginal microbiota, is associated with adverse health outcomes. BV often recurs after standard antibiotic therapy in part because antibiotics promote microbiota dominance by Lactobacillus iners instead of Lactobacillus crispatus, which has more beneficial health associations. Strategies to promote L. crispatus and inhibit L. iners are thus needed. We show that oleic acid (OA) and similar long-chain fatty acids simultaneously inhibit L. iners and enhance L. crispatus growth. These phenotypes require OA-inducible genes conserved in L. crispatus and related species, including an oleate hydratase (ohyA) and putative fatty acid efflux pump (farE). FarE mediates OA resistance, while OhyA is robustly active in the human vaginal microbiota and sequesters OA in a derivative form that only ohyA-harboring organisms can exploit. Finally, OA promotes L. crispatus dominance more effectively than antibiotics in an in vitro model of BV, suggesting a novel approach for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meilin Zhu
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Matthew W. Frank
- Department of Host-Microbe Interactions, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Christopher D. Radka
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of Kentucky
| | | | - Megan W. Tse
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | | | - Kerry Pierce
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Amy Deik
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Jiawu Xu
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Salina Hussain
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Fatima Aysha Hussain
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nondumiso Xulu
- HIV Pathogenesis Programme (HPP), The Doris Duke Medical Research Institute, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Nasreen Khan
- HIV Pathogenesis Programme (HPP), The Doris Duke Medical Research Institute, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | | | - Krista L. Dong
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Health Systems Trust, Durban, South Africa
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Thumbi Ndung’u
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- HIV Pathogenesis Programme (HPP), The Doris Duke Medical Research Institute, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Africa Health Research Institute (AHRI), Durban, South Africa
- Max Planck Institute for Infection Biology, Berlin, Germany
- Division of Infection and Immunity, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Charles O. Rock
- Department of Host-Microbe Interactions, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
- passed away on September 22, 2023
| | - Paul C. Blainey
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Seth M. Bloom
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Douglas S. Kwon
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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DI Pierro F, Bertuccioli A, Cazzaniga M, Zerbinati N, Guasti L. A clinical report highlighting some factors influencing successful vaginal colonization with probiotic Lactobacillus crispatus. Minerva Med 2023; 114:883-887. [PMID: 37526510 DOI: 10.23736/s0026-4806.23.08773-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Francesco DI Pierro
- Scientific Department, Velleja Research, Milan, Italy -
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy -
| | | | | | - Nicola Zerbinati
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Luigina Guasti
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
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Colbert LE, El Alam MB, Wang R, Karpinets T, Lo D, Lynn EJ, Harris TA, Elnaggar JH, Yoshida-Court K, Tomasic K, Bronk JK, Sammouri J, Yanamandra AV, Olvera AV, Carlin LG, Sims T, Delgado Medrano AY, Napravnik TC, O'Hara M, Lin D, Abana CO, Li HX, Eifel PJ, Jhingran A, Joyner M, Lin L, Ramondetta LM, Futreal AM, Schmeler KM, Mathew G, Dorta-Estremera S, Zhang J, Wu X, Ajami NJ, Wong M, Taniguchi C, Petrosino JF, Sastry KJ, Okhuysen PC, Martinez SA, Tan L, Mahmud I, Lorenzi PL, Wargo JA, Klopp AH. Tumor-resident Lactobacillus iners confer chemoradiation resistance through lactate-induced metabolic rewiring. Cancer Cell 2023; 41:1945-1962.e11. [PMID: 37863066 PMCID: PMC10841640 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2023.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Tumor microbiota can produce active metabolites that affect cancer and immune cell signaling, metabolism, and proliferation. Here, we explore tumor and gut microbiome features that affect chemoradiation response in patients with cervical cancer using a combined approach of deep microbiome sequencing, targeted bacterial culture, and in vitro assays. We identify that an obligate L-lactate-producing lactic acid bacterium found in tumors, Lactobacillus iners, is associated with decreased survival in patients, induces chemotherapy and radiation resistance in cervical cancer cells, and leads to metabolic rewiring, or alterations in multiple metabolic pathways, in tumors. Genomically similar L-lactate-producing lactic acid bacteria commensal to other body sites are also significantly associated with survival in colorectal, lung, head and neck, and skin cancers. Our findings demonstrate that lactic acid bacteria in the tumor microenvironment can alter tumor metabolism and lactate signaling pathways, causing therapeutic resistance. Lactic acid bacteria could be promising therapeutic targets across cancer types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren E Colbert
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| | - Molly B El Alam
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Rui Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Tatiana Karpinets
- Department of Genomic Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - David Lo
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Erica J Lynn
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Timothy A Harris
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jacob H Elnaggar
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; LSU School of Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
| | - Kyoko Yoshida-Court
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Katarina Tomasic
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Julianna K Bronk
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Julie Sammouri
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Ananta V Yanamandra
- Department of Translational and Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Adilene V Olvera
- Departments of Infectious Diseases, Infection Control and Employee Health, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Lily G Carlin
- Departments of Infectious Diseases, Infection Control and Employee Health, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Travis Sims
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Andrea Y Delgado Medrano
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Tatiana Cisneros Napravnik
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Madison O'Hara
- Department of Thoracic Head and Neck Medical Oncology at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Daniel Lin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Chike O Abana
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Hannah X Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Patricia J Eifel
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Anuja Jhingran
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Melissa Joyner
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Lilie Lin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Lois M Ramondetta
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Andrew M Futreal
- Department of Genomic Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Kathleen M Schmeler
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Geena Mathew
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | | | - Jianhua Zhang
- Department of Genomic Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Xiaogang Wu
- Department of Genomic Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Nadim J Ajami
- Department of Genomic Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Platform for Innovative Microbiome and Translational Research, Department of Genomic Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Matthew Wong
- Department of Genomic Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Platform for Innovative Microbiome and Translational Research, Department of Genomic Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Cullen Taniguchi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Joseph F Petrosino
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, The Alkek Center for Metagenomics and Microbiome Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - K Jagannadha Sastry
- Department of Thoracic Head and Neck Medical Oncology at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Pablo C Okhuysen
- Departments of Infectious Diseases, Infection Control and Employee Health, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Sara A Martinez
- Metabolomics Core Facility, Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Lin Tan
- Metabolomics Core Facility, Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Iqbal Mahmud
- Metabolomics Core Facility, Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Philip L Lorenzi
- Metabolomics Core Facility, Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jennifer A Wargo
- Department of Genomic Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; LSU School of Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA; Platform for Innovative Microbiome and Translational Research, Department of Genomic Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Ann H Klopp
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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Farr A, Swidsinski S, Surbek D, Tirri BF, Willinger B, Hoyme U, Walter G, Reckel-Botzem I, Mendling W. Bacterial Vaginosis: Guideline of the DGGG, OEGGG and SGGG (S2k-Level, AWMF Registry No. 015/028, June 2023). Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd 2023; 83:1331-1349. [PMID: 37928409 PMCID: PMC10624544 DOI: 10.1055/a-2169-8539] [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: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim This official guideline was coordinated and published by the DGGG, OEGGG and SGGG with the involvement of additional professional societies. The aim of the guideline is to evaluate the relevant literature and use it to provide a consensus-based overview of the diagnosis and management of bacterial vaginosis. Methods This S2k-guideline was developed by representative members from different medical professional societies on behalf of the guidelines commission of the above-listed societies using a structured consensus process. Recommendations This guideline provides recommendations on the diagnosis, management, counselling, prophylaxis, and other aspects related to bacterial vaginosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Farr
- Universitätsklinik für Frauenheilkunde, Abteilung für Geburtshilfe und feto-maternale Medizin, Medizinische Universität Wien, Wien, Austria
| | | | - Daniel Surbek
- Universitätsklinik für Frauenheilkunde, Geburtshilfe und Feto-maternale Medizin, Inselspital Bern, Universität Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Birgit Willinger
- Abteilung für Klinische Mikrobiologie, Medizinische Universität Wien, Wien, Austria
| | - Udo Hoyme
- Klinik für Frauenheilkunde und Geburtshilfe, Ilm-Kreis-Kliniken, Arnstadt, Germany
| | - Gisela Walter
- Ärztliche Gesellschaft zur Gesundheitsförderung e. V. (ÄGGF), Hamburg, Germany
- Deutsche STI-Gesellschaft (DSTIG), Bochum, Germany
| | - Inge Reckel-Botzem
- Berufsverband der Frauenärzte e. V. (BVF), Landesverband Hessen, Hainburg, Germany
| | - Werner Mendling
- Deutsches Zentrum für Infektionen in Gynäkologie und Geburtshilfe, Wuppertal, Germany
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Qulu WP, Mzobe G, Mtshali A, Letsoalo MP, Osman F, San JE, Kama AO, Garrett N, Mindel A, Rompalo A, Liebenberg LJP, Archary D, Sivro A, Ngcapu S. Metronidazole Treatment Failure and Persistent BV Lead to Increased Frequencies of Activated T- and Dendritic-Cell Subsets. Microorganisms 2023; 11:2643. [PMID: 38004655 PMCID: PMC10673474 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11112643] [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: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Metronidazole (MDZ) treatment failure and bacterial vaginosis (BV) recurrence rates are high among African women. This cohort study identified genital immune parameters associated with treatment response by comparing vaginal microbiota and immune cell frequencies in endocervical cytobrushes obtained from 32 South African women with symptomatic BV pre- and post-metronidazole treatment. Cervical T- and dendritic-cell subsets were phenotyped using multiparameter flow cytometry and the composition of vaginal microbial communities was characterized using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. MDZ treatment led to a modest decrease in the relative abundance of BV-associated bacteria, but colonization with Lactobacillus species (other than L. iners) was rare. At 6 and 12 weeks, MDZ-treated women had a significant increase in the frequencies of CCR5+ CD4+ T cells and plasmacytoid dendritic cells compared to the pre-treatment timepoint. In addition, MDZ non-responders had significantly higher frequencies of activated CD4 T cells and monocytes compared to MDZ responders. We conclude that MDZ treatment failure was characterized by an increased expression of activated T- and dendritic-cell subsets that may enhance HIV susceptibility. These data suggest the need to further assess the long-term impact of MDZ treatment on mucosal immune response and the vaginal microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenkosi Perez Qulu
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban 4001, South Africa; (W.P.Q.); (G.M.); (A.M.); (M.P.L.); (F.O.); (A.O.K.); (N.G.); (A.M.); (L.J.P.L.); (D.A.); (A.S.)
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4001, South Africa
| | - Gugulethu Mzobe
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban 4001, South Africa; (W.P.Q.); (G.M.); (A.M.); (M.P.L.); (F.O.); (A.O.K.); (N.G.); (A.M.); (L.J.P.L.); (D.A.); (A.S.)
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4001, South Africa
| | - Andile Mtshali
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban 4001, South Africa; (W.P.Q.); (G.M.); (A.M.); (M.P.L.); (F.O.); (A.O.K.); (N.G.); (A.M.); (L.J.P.L.); (D.A.); (A.S.)
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4001, South Africa
| | - Marothi Peter Letsoalo
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban 4001, South Africa; (W.P.Q.); (G.M.); (A.M.); (M.P.L.); (F.O.); (A.O.K.); (N.G.); (A.M.); (L.J.P.L.); (D.A.); (A.S.)
| | - Farzana Osman
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban 4001, South Africa; (W.P.Q.); (G.M.); (A.M.); (M.P.L.); (F.O.); (A.O.K.); (N.G.); (A.M.); (L.J.P.L.); (D.A.); (A.S.)
| | - James Emmanuel San
- KwaZulu-Natal Research Innovation and Sequencing Platform, Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4001, South Africa;
| | - Asavela Olona Kama
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban 4001, South Africa; (W.P.Q.); (G.M.); (A.M.); (M.P.L.); (F.O.); (A.O.K.); (N.G.); (A.M.); (L.J.P.L.); (D.A.); (A.S.)
| | - Nigel Garrett
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban 4001, South Africa; (W.P.Q.); (G.M.); (A.M.); (M.P.L.); (F.O.); (A.O.K.); (N.G.); (A.M.); (L.J.P.L.); (D.A.); (A.S.)
- Discipline of Public Health Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4001, South Africa
| | - Adrian Mindel
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban 4001, South Africa; (W.P.Q.); (G.M.); (A.M.); (M.P.L.); (F.O.); (A.O.K.); (N.G.); (A.M.); (L.J.P.L.); (D.A.); (A.S.)
| | - Anne Rompalo
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA;
| | - Lenine J. P. Liebenberg
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban 4001, South Africa; (W.P.Q.); (G.M.); (A.M.); (M.P.L.); (F.O.); (A.O.K.); (N.G.); (A.M.); (L.J.P.L.); (D.A.); (A.S.)
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4001, South Africa
- Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation (CERI), Stellenbosch 7600, South Africa
| | - Derseree Archary
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban 4001, South Africa; (W.P.Q.); (G.M.); (A.M.); (M.P.L.); (F.O.); (A.O.K.); (N.G.); (A.M.); (L.J.P.L.); (D.A.); (A.S.)
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4001, South Africa
| | - Aida Sivro
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban 4001, South Africa; (W.P.Q.); (G.M.); (A.M.); (M.P.L.); (F.O.); (A.O.K.); (N.G.); (A.M.); (L.J.P.L.); (D.A.); (A.S.)
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4001, South Africa
- JC Wilt Infectious Disease Research Centre, National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, MB R3E 3L5, Canada
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 3L5, Canada
| | - Sinaye Ngcapu
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban 4001, South Africa; (W.P.Q.); (G.M.); (A.M.); (M.P.L.); (F.O.); (A.O.K.); (N.G.); (A.M.); (L.J.P.L.); (D.A.); (A.S.)
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4001, South Africa
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Hou HT, Lin TC, Wu MH, Tsai SJ. Feel so bac: is Fusobacterium the suspect causing endometriosis? Trends Mol Med 2023; 29:780-782. [PMID: 37599125 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2023.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
Recent work by Muraoka and colleagues reports that the Gram-negative anaerobic bacterium Fusobacterium nucleatum is detected in the uterus of 64% of women with endometriosis. Fusobacterium infection causes macrophage infiltration, transforming growth factor-β production, and transgelin upregulation in human and mouse endometria as well as endometriotic lesion development in a mouse model of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan-Tzu Hou
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, 1 University Road, Tainan 70101, Taiwan
| | - Ting-Chien Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, 1 University Road, Tainan 70101, Taiwan
| | - Meng-Hsing Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, 1 University Road, Tainan 70101, Taiwan
| | - Shaw-Jenq Tsai
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, 1 University Road, Tainan 70101, Taiwan; Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, 1 University Road, Tainan 70101, Taiwan.
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42
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Ma S, Wang W, Su Y, Sun W, Ma L. Antibiotics therapy combined with probiotics administered intravaginally for the treatment of bacterial vaginosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Open Med (Wars) 2023; 18:20230644. [PMID: 37724125 PMCID: PMC10505304 DOI: 10.1515/med-2023-0644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 09/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The objective was to examine the pooled effects of antibiotic-probiotic combinations by examining the cure rate and recurrence rate for bacterial vaginosis (BV). A systematic literature search was conducted from electronic databases. All parallel randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that focused on the effects of antibiotics combined with intravaginal probiotics were included. Cure rate and recurrence rate were the primary and secondary outcomes to be analyzed. Meta-analysis was conducted following the Cochrane handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. As a result, of 923 studies identified, 11 articles involving 1,493 BV patients met the inclusion criteria and nine were available for meta-analysis. A meta-analysis of two studies evaluated the recurrence rate 12-16 weeks after treatment. Results showed a statistically significant difference favoring the antibiotics plus probiotics group vs the antibiotics plus placebo group (relative risk 0.62, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.45-0.85). The narrative review in one study indicated that the cure rate was higher in the antibiotics plus probiotics group, giving a significant HR ratio of 0.73 (95% CI 0.54-0.98) (p = 0.042). In conclusion, vaginal application of Lactobacillus in combination with antibiotics for the treatment of BV could be a promising method for both reducing the recurrence rate and relieving symptoms of BV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyu Ma
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050China
| | - Yanli Su
- Department of Infection and Critical Care Medicine, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Sun
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050China
| | - Liyan Ma
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050China
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Minooei F, Gilbert NM, Zhang L, Sarah NeCamp M, Mahmoud MY, Kyser AJ, Tyo KM, Watson WH, Patwardhan R, Lewis WG, Frieboes HB, Lewis AL, Steinbach-Rankins JM. Rapid-dissolving electrospun nanofibers for intra-vaginal antibiotic or probiotic delivery. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2023; 190:81-93. [PMID: 37479065 PMCID: PMC10530173 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2023.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023]
Abstract
The emergence of probiotics as an alternative and adjunct to antibiotic treatment for microbiological disturbances of the female genitourinary system requires innovative delivery platforms for vaginal applications. This study developed a new, rapid-dissolving form using electrospun polyethylene oxide (PEO) fibers for delivery of antibiotic metronidazole or probiotic Lactobacillus acidophilus, and performed evaluation in vitro and in vivo. Fibers did not generate overt pathophysiology or encourage Gardnerella growth in a mouse vaginal colonization model, inducing no alterations in vaginal mucosa at 24 hr post-administration. PEO-fibers incorporating metronidazole (100 µg MET/mg polymer) effectively prevented and treated Gardnerella infections (∼3- and 2.5-log reduction, respectively, 24 hr post treatment) when administered vaginally. Incorporation of live Lactobacillus acidophilus (107 CFU/mL) demonstrated viable probiotic delivery in vitro by PEO and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) fibers to inhibit Gardnerella (108 CFU/mL) in bacterial co-cultures (9.9- and 7.0-log reduction, respectively, 24 hr post-inoculation), and in the presence of vaginal epithelial cells (6.9- and 8.0-log reduction, respectively, 16 hr post-inoculation). Administration of Lactobacillus acidophilus in PEO-fibers achieved vaginal colonization in mice similar to colonization observed with free Lactobacillus. acidophilus. These experiments provide proof-of-concept for rapid-dissolving electrospun fibers as a successful platform for intra-vaginal antibiotic or probiotic delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farnaz Minooei
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Louisville Speed School of Engineering, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - Nicole M Gilbert
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Longyun Zhang
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Louisville Speed School of Engineering, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - Mary Sarah NeCamp
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Louisville Speed School of Engineering, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - Mohamed Y Mahmoud
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Louisville Speed School of Engineering, Louisville, KY 40202, USA; Department of Toxicology and Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Egypt
| | - Anthony J Kyser
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Louisville Speed School of Engineering, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - Kevin M Tyo
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - Walter H Watson
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, School of Medicine, University of Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - Ruta Patwardhan
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Louisville Speed School of Engineering, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - Warren G Lewis
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA USA; Glycobiology Research and Training Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA USA
| | - Hermann B Frieboes
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Louisville Speed School of Engineering, Louisville, KY 40202, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40202, USA; Center for Predictive Medicine, University of Louisville, 505 S. Hancock St., Louisville, KY 40202, USA; UofL Health - Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, KY, 40202, USA.
| | - Amanda L Lewis
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA USA; Glycobiology Research and Training Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA USA
| | - Jill M Steinbach-Rankins
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Louisville Speed School of Engineering, Louisville, KY 40202, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40202, USA; Center for Predictive Medicine, University of Louisville, 505 S. Hancock St., Louisville, KY 40202, USA; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
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44
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Tarracchini C, Argentini C, Alessandri G, Lugli GA, Mancabelli L, Fontana F, Anzalone R, Viappiani A, Turroni F, Ventura M, Milani C. The core genome evolution of Lactobacillus crispatus as a driving force for niche competition in the human vaginal tract. Microb Biotechnol 2023; 16:1774-1789. [PMID: 37491806 PMCID: PMC10443340 DOI: 10.1111/1751-7915.14305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The lower female reproductive tract is notoriously dominated by Lactobacillus species, among which Lactobacillus crispatus emerges for its protective and health-promoting activities. Although previous comparative genome analyses highlighted genetic and phenotypic diversity within the L. crispatus species, most studies have focused on the presence/absence of accessory genes. Here, we investigated the variation at the single nucleotide level within protein-encoding genes shared across a human-derived L. crispatus strain selection, which includes 200 currently available human-derived L. crispatus genomes as well as 41 chromosome sequences of such taxon that have been decoded in the framework of this study. Such data clearly pointed out the presence of intra-species micro-diversities that could have evolutionary significance contributing to phenotypical diversification by affecting protein domains. Specifically, two single nucleotide variations in the type II pullulanase gene sequence led to specific amino acid substitutions, possibly explaining the substantial differences in the growth performances and competition abilities observed in a multi-strain bioreactor culture simulating the vaginal environment. Accordingly, L. crispatus strains display different growth performances, suggesting that the colonisation and stable persistence in the female reproductive tract between the members of this taxon is highly variable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Tarracchini
- Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences, and Environmental SustainabilityUniversity of ParmaParmaItaly
| | - Chiara Argentini
- Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences, and Environmental SustainabilityUniversity of ParmaParmaItaly
| | - Giulia Alessandri
- Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences, and Environmental SustainabilityUniversity of ParmaParmaItaly
| | - Gabriele Andrea Lugli
- Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences, and Environmental SustainabilityUniversity of ParmaParmaItaly
| | | | - Federico Fontana
- Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences, and Environmental SustainabilityUniversity of ParmaParmaItaly
- GenProbio SrlParmaItaly
| | | | | | - Francesca Turroni
- Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences, and Environmental SustainabilityUniversity of ParmaParmaItaly
- Microbiome Research HubUniversity of ParmaParmaItaly
| | - Marco Ventura
- Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences, and Environmental SustainabilityUniversity of ParmaParmaItaly
- Microbiome Research HubUniversity of ParmaParmaItaly
| | - Christian Milani
- Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences, and Environmental SustainabilityUniversity of ParmaParmaItaly
- Microbiome Research HubUniversity of ParmaParmaItaly
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45
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Muzny CA, Sobel JD. Understanding and Preventing Recurring Bacterial Vaginosis: Important Considerations for Clinicians. Int J Womens Health 2023; 15:1317-1325. [PMID: 37581202 PMCID: PMC10423565 DOI: 10.2147/ijwh.s383333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the most common vaginal infection worldwide. It is associated with an increased risk of acquisition of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) as well as pelvic inflammatory disease and adverse birth outcomes. During BV, a polymicrobial biofilm forms on the surface of the vaginal mucosa. However, the exact etiology of BV remains controversial which has impeded significant advances in diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Despite 30-day cure rates approaching 80% in BV-infected women treated with 7 days of oral metronidazole, recurrence within 12 months is common. This article provides a current review of the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of recurrent BV for practicing clinicians who commonly see women with this recurrent vaginal infection. Regarding management, we focus primarily on antimicrobial measures that may be effective. Future areas of research in this field are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina A Muzny
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Jack D Sobel
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
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46
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Stevens G, Dolley S, Mogg R, Connor JT. A template for the authoring of statistical analysis plans. Contemp Clin Trials Commun 2023; 34:101100. [PMID: 37388218 PMCID: PMC10300078 DOI: 10.1016/j.conctc.2023.101100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
A number of principal investigators may have limited access to biostatisticians, a lack of biostatistical training, or no requirement to complete a timely statistical analysis plan (SAP). SAPs completed early will identify design or implementation weak points, improve protocols, remove the temptation for p-hacking, and enable proper peer review by stakeholders considering funding the trial. An SAP completed at the same time as the study protocol might be the only comprehensive method for at once optimizing sample size, identifying bias, and applying rigor to study design. This ordered corpus of SAP sections with detailed definitions and a variety of examples represents an omnibus of best practice methods offered by biostatistical practitioners inside and outside of industry. The article presents a protocol template for clinical research design, enabling statisticians, from beginners to advanced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary Stevens
- DynaStat Consulting, Inc., 119 Fairway Court, Bastrop, TX, 78602, USA
| | - Shawn Dolley
- Open Global Health, 710 12th St. South, Suite 2523, Arlington, VA, 22202, USA
| | - Robin Mogg
- Takeda Pharmaceuticals USA Inc., 95 Hayden Avenue, Lexington, MA, 02421, USA
| | - Jason T. Connor
- ConfluenceStat, 3102 NW 82nd Way, Cooper City, Florida, 33024, USA
- University of Central Florida College of Medicine, 6850 Lake Nona Blvd, Orlando, FL, 32827, USA
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47
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Garg A, Ellis LB, Love RL, Grewal K, Bowden S, Bennett PR, Kyrgiou M. Vaginal microbiome in obesity and its impact on reproduction. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2023; 90:102365. [PMID: 37399714 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2023.102365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
A number of reproductive outcomes have been increasingly found to be affected by the vaginal microbiota. Obesity has become a global epidemic, affecting increasing numbers of reproductive-age women, and has been shown to be a risk factor for a number of adverse female health outcomes. A healthy vaginal microbiome is characterized by Lactobacillus-dominance, in particular Lactobacillus crispatus; obesity has been found to be associated with higher diversity and a lower likelihood of Lactobacillus-dominance. In this review, we summarize the evidence on the vaginal microbiome in obese women and the impact on reproductive outcomes such as conception rates, early pregnancy, and preterm birth. We further explore the mechanisms by which obesity may result in an altered microbial composition and highlight future avenues for therapeutic targeting of the vaginal microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akanksha Garg
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, W12 0NN, London, UK; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Laura Burney Ellis
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, W12 0NN, London, UK; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Ryan Laurence Love
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, W12 0NN, London, UK; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Karen Grewal
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, W12 0NN, London, UK; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Sarah Bowden
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, W12 0NN, London, UK
| | - Phillip R Bennett
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, W12 0NN, London, UK
| | - Maria Kyrgiou
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, W12 0NN, London, UK; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK.
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48
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Finzer P, Küppers V, Griesser H. Dysbiotic Co-Factors in Cervical Cancer. How the Microbiome Influences the Development of Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia (CIN). Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd 2023; 83:1017-1021. [PMID: 37588255 PMCID: PMC10427202 DOI: 10.1055/a-2044-0162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is a necessary but not sufficient condition for the development of cervical cancer. The dysbiotic shift in the cervicovaginal microbiome appears to be a major co-factor in carcinogenesis. New analytical methods, such as next-generation sequencing (NGS), can be used to detect all of the vaginal microorganisms present and therefore identify individual therapeutic options. The relationship of bacterial vaginosis and carcinogenesis, as well as possible indications for the use of microbiome analysis, will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Finzer
- dus.ana Düsseldorf Analytik, Praxis für medizinische Mikrobiologie und Laboratoriumsmedizin, Düsseldorf, Germany
- Institut für Medizinische Mikrobiologie und Krankenhaushygiene, Heinrich-Heine Universität Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Volkmar Küppers
- Zytologisches Labor, Dysplasie-Sprechstunde, Praxis für Frauenheilkunde & Geburtshilfe, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Henrik Griesser
- Fachabteilung Pathologie und Zytodiagnostik, Labor Dr. Wisplinghoff, Köln, Germany
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49
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Rai V, Kyser AJ, Goodin DA, Mahmoud MY, Steinbach-Rankins JM, Frieboes HB. Computational Modeling of Probiotic Recovery from 3D-Bioprinted Scaffolds for Localized Vaginal Application. ANNALS OF 3D PRINTED MEDICINE 2023; 11:100120. [PMID: 37583971 PMCID: PMC10424195 DOI: 10.1016/j.stlm.2023.100120] [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] [Indexed: 08/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Lactobacilli, play a beneficial role in the female reproductive tract (FRT), regulating pH via lactic acid metabolism to help maintain a healthy environment. Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is characterized by a dysregulated flora in which anaerobes such as Gardnerella vaginalis (Gardnerella) create a less acidic environment. Current treatment focuses on antibiotic administration, including metronidazole, clindamycin, or tinidazole; however, lack of patient compliance as well as antibiotic resistance may contribute to 50% recurrence within a year. Recently, locally administered probiotics such as Lactobacillus crispatus (L. crispatus) have been evaluated as a prophylactic against recurrence. To mitigate the lack of patient compliance, sustained probiotic delivery has been proposed via 3D-bioprinted delivery vehicles. Successful delivery depends on a variety of vehicle fabrication parameters influencing timing and rate of probiotic recovery; detailed evaluation of these parameters would benefit from computational modeling complementary to experimental evaluation. This study implements a novel simulation platform to evaluate sustained delivery of probiotics from 3D-bioprinted scaffolds, taking into consideration bacterial lactic acid production and associated pH changes. The results show that the timing and rate of probiotic recovery can be realistically simulated based on fabrication parameters that affect scaffold degradation and probiotic survival. Longer term, the proposed approach could help personalize localized probiotic delivery to the FRT to advance women's health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veeresh Rai
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Anthony J. Kyser
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Dylan A. Goodin
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
- School of Interdisciplinary and Graduate Studies, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Mohamed Y. Mahmoud
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
- Center for Predictive Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
- Department of Toxicology and Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Egypt
| | - Jill M. Steinbach-Rankins
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
- Center for Predictive Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Hermann B. Frieboes
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
- Center for Predictive Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
- UofL-Health –Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
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50
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Qi F, Fan S, Fang C, Ge L, Lyu J, Huang Z, Zhao S, Zou Y, Huang L, Liu X, Liang Y, Zhang Y, Zhong Y, Zhang H, Xiao L, Zhang X. Orally administrated Lactobacillus gasseri TM13 and Lactobacillus crispatus LG55 can restore the vaginal health of patients recovering from bacterial vaginosis. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1125239. [PMID: 37575226 PMCID: PMC10415204 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1125239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common infection of the lower genital tract with a vaginal microbiome dysbiosis caused by decreasing of lactobacilli. Previous studies suggested that supplementation with live Lactobacillus may benefit the recovery of BV, however, the outcomes vary in people from different regions. Herein, we aim to evaluate the effectiveness of oral Chinese-origin Lactobacillus with adjuvant metronidazole (MET) on treating Chinese BV patients. In total, 67 Chinese women with BV were enrolled in this parallel controlled trial and randomly assigned to two study groups: a control group treated with MET vaginal suppositories for 7 days and a probiotic group treated with oral Lactobacillus gasseri TM13 and Lactobacillus crispatus LG55 as an adjuvant to MET for 30 days. By comparing the participants with Nugent Scores ≥ 7 and < 7 on days 14, 30, and 90, we found that oral administration of probiotics did not improve BV cure rates (72.73% and 84.00% at day 14, 57.14% and 60.00% at day 30, 32.14% and 48.39% at day 90 for probiotic and control group respectively). However, the probiotics were effective in restoring vaginal health after cure by showing higher proportion of participants with Nugent Scores < 4 in the probiotic group compared to the control group (87.50% and 71.43% on day 14, 93.75% and 88.89% on day 30, and 77.78% and 66.67% on day 90). The relative abundance of the probiotic strains was significantly increased in the intestinal microbiome of the probiotic group compared to the control group at day 14, but no significance was detected after 30 and 90 days. Also, the probiotics were not detected in vaginal microbiome, suggesting that L. gasseri TM13 and L. crispatus LG55 mainly acted through the intestine. A higher abundance of Prevotella timonensis at baseline was significantly associated with long-term cure failure of BV and greatly contributed to the enrichment of the lipid IVA synthesis pathway, which could aggravate inflammation response. To sum up, L. gasseri TM13 and L. crispatus LG55 can restore the vaginal health of patients recovering from BV, and individualized intervention mode should be developed to restore the vaginal health of patients recovering from BV. Clinical trial registration https://classic.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/, identifier NCT04771728.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengyuan Qi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
- ShenZhen Engineering Laboratory of Detection and Intervention of Human Intestinal Microbiome, Shenzhen, China
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shangrong Fan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shenzhen Peking University Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical Center, Shenzhen, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory on Technology for Early Diagnosis of Major Gynecological Diseases, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Chao Fang
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
- ShenZhen Engineering Laboratory of Detection and Intervention of Human Intestinal Microbiome, Shenzhen, China
| | - Lan Ge
- BGI Precision Nutrition (Shenzhen) Technology Co., Ltd, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jinli Lyu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shenzhen Peking University Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical Center, Shenzhen, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory on Technology for Early Diagnosis of Major Gynecological Diseases, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhuoqi Huang
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
- ShenZhen Engineering Laboratory of Detection and Intervention of Human Intestinal Microbiome, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Biology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Shaowei Zhao
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
- ShenZhen Engineering Laboratory of Detection and Intervention of Human Intestinal Microbiome, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yuanqiang Zou
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
- ShenZhen Engineering Laboratory of Detection and Intervention of Human Intestinal Microbiome, Shenzhen, China
| | - Liting Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shenzhen Peking University Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical Center, Shenzhen, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory on Technology for Early Diagnosis of Major Gynecological Diseases, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xinyang Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shenzhen Peking University Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical Center, Shenzhen, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory on Technology for Early Diagnosis of Major Gynecological Diseases, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yiheng Liang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shenzhen Peking University Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical Center, Shenzhen, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory on Technology for Early Diagnosis of Major Gynecological Diseases, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yongke Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shenzhen Peking University Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical Center, Shenzhen, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory on Technology for Early Diagnosis of Major Gynecological Diseases, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yiyi Zhong
- BGI Precision Nutrition (Shenzhen) Technology Co., Ltd, Shenzhen, China
| | - Haifeng Zhang
- BGI Precision Nutrition (Shenzhen) Technology Co., Ltd, Shenzhen, China
| | - Liang Xiao
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
- ShenZhen Engineering Laboratory of Detection and Intervention of Human Intestinal Microbiome, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiaowei Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shenzhen Peking University Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical Center, Shenzhen, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory on Technology for Early Diagnosis of Major Gynecological Diseases, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
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