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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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2
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Jawanda IK, Soni T, Kumari S, Prabha V. The evolving facets of vaginal microbiota transplantation: reinvigorating the unexplored frontier amid complex challenges. Arch Microbiol 2024; 206:306. [PMID: 38878076 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-024-04024-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
In an age of cutting-edge sequencing methods and worldwide endeavors such as The Human Microbiome Project and MetaHIT, the human microbiome stands as a complex and diverse community of microorganisms. A central theme in current scientific inquiry revolves around reinstating a balanced microbial composition, referred to as "eubiosis," as a targeted approach for treating vast array of diseases. Vaginal Microbiota Transplantation (VMT), inspired by the success of fecal microbiota transplantation, emerges as an innovative therapy addressing vaginal dysbacteriosis by transferring the complete microbiota from a healthy donor. Antibiotics, while effective, pose challenges with adverse effects, high recurrence rates, and potential harm to beneficial Lactobacillus strains. Continued antibiotic usage also sparks worries regarding the development of resistant strains. Probiotics, though showing promise, exhibit inconsistency in treating multifactorial diseases, and concerns linger about their suitability for diverse genetic backgrounds. Given the recurrent challenges associated with antibiotic and probiotic treatments, VMT emerges as an imperative alternative, offering a unique and promising avenue for efficiently and reliably managing vaginal dysbiosis among a majority of women. This review critically evaluates findings from both animal and human studies, offering nuanced insights into the efficacy and challenges of VMT. An extensive analysis of clinical trials, provides a current overview of ongoing and completed trials, shedding light on the evolving clinical landscape and therapeutic potential of VMT. Delving into the origins, mechanisms, and optimized protocols of VMT, the review underscores the imperative for sustained research efforts to advance this groundbreaking gynecological therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Thomson Soni
- Department of Microbiology, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
| | - Seema Kumari
- Department of Microbiology, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
| | - Vijay Prabha
- Department of Microbiology, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India.
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Morselli S, Ceccarani C, Djusse ME, Laghi L, Camboni T, Consolandi C, Foschi C, Severgnini M, Marangoni A. Anti-chlamydial activity of vaginal fluids: new evidence from an in vitro model. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1403782. [PMID: 38912205 PMCID: PMC11193362 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1403782] [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: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction We assessed the in vitro anti-chlamydial activity of fresh vaginal secretions, deciphering the microbial and metabolic components able to counteract Chlamydia trachomatis viability. Methods Forty vaginal samples were collected from a group of reproductive-aged women and their anti-chlamydial activity was evaluated by inhibition experiments. Each sample underwent 16S rRNA metabarcoding sequencing to determine the bacterial composition, as well as 1H-NMR spectroscopy to detect and quantify the presence of vaginal metabolites. Results Samples characterized by a high anti-chlamydial activity were enriched in Lactobacillus, especially Lactobacillus crispatus and Lactobacillus iners, while not-active samples exhibited a significant reduction of lactobacilli, along with higher relative abundances of Streptococcus and Olegusella. Lactobacillus gasseri showed an opposite behavior compared to L. crispatus, being more prevalent in not-active vaginal samples. Higher concentrations of several amino acids (i.e., isoleucine, leucine, and aspartate; positively correlated to the abundance of L. crispatus and L. jensenii) lactate, and 4-aminobutyrate were the most significant metabolic fingerprints of highly active samples. Acetate and formate concentrations, on the other hand, were related to the abundances of a group of anaerobic opportunistic bacteria (including Prevotella, Dialister, Olegusella, Peptostreptococcus, Peptoniphilus, Finegoldia and Anaerococcus). Finally, glucose, correlated to Streptococcus, Lachnospira and Alloscardovia genera, emerged as a key molecule of the vaginal environment: indeed, the anti-chlamydial effect of vaginal fluids decreased as glucose concentrations increased. Discussion These findings could pave the way for novel strategies in the prevention and treatment of chlamydial urogenital infections, such as lactobacilli probiotic formulations or lactobacilli-derived postbiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Morselli
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Camilla Ceccarani
- Institute of Biomedical Technologies, National Research Council, Segrate, Italy
- National Biodiversity Future Center S.c.a.r.l., Palermo, Italy
| | - Marielle Ezekielle Djusse
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Luca Laghi
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, University of Bologna, Cesena, Italy
| | - Tania Camboni
- Institute of Biomedical Technologies, National Research Council, Segrate, Italy
| | - Clarissa Consolandi
- Institute of Biomedical Technologies, National Research Council, Segrate, Italy
- National Biodiversity Future Center S.c.a.r.l., Palermo, Italy
| | - Claudio Foschi
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Microbiology Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Marco Severgnini
- Institute of Biomedical Technologies, National Research Council, Segrate, Italy
- National Biodiversity Future Center S.c.a.r.l., Palermo, Italy
| | - Antonella Marangoni
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Xiao L, Zuo Z, Zhao F. Microbiome in Female Reproductive Health: Implications for Fertility and Assisted Reproductive Technologies. GENOMICS, PROTEOMICS & BIOINFORMATICS 2024; 22:qzad005. [PMID: 38862423 PMCID: PMC11104452 DOI: 10.1093/gpbjnl/qzad005] [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: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
The microbiome plays a critical role in the process of conception and the outcomes of pregnancy. Disruptions in microbiome homeostasis in women of reproductive age can lead to various pregnancy complications, which significantly impact maternal and fetal health. Recent studies have associated the microbiome in the female reproductive tract (FRT) with assisted reproductive technology (ART) outcomes, and restoring microbiome balance has been shown to improve fertility in infertile couples. This review provides an overview of the role of the microbiome in female reproductive health, including its implications for pregnancy outcomes and ARTs. Additionally, recent advances in the use of microbial biomarkers as indicators of pregnancy disorders are summarized. A comprehensive understanding of the characteristics of the microbiome before and during pregnancy and its impact on reproductive health will greatly promote maternal and fetal health. Such knowledge can also contribute to the development of ARTs and microbiome-based interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liwen Xiao
- CAS Key Laboratory of Systems Biology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China
- Beijing Institutes of Life Science/Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Zhenqiang Zuo
- Beijing Institutes of Life Science/Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Fangqing Zhao
- CAS Key Laboratory of Systems Biology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China
- Beijing Institutes of Life Science/Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
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5
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Wang Y, Liu Z, Chen T. Vaginal microbiota: Potential targets for vulvovaginal candidiasis infection. Heliyon 2024; 10:e27239. [PMID: 38463778 PMCID: PMC10923723 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e27239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is the second most common cause of vaginal infection globally after bacterial vaginosis (BV) and associated with adverse reproductive and obstetric outcomes, including preterm delivery, sexually transmitted infections and pelvic inflammatory disease. Although effective control of VVC is achievable with the use of traditional treatment strategies (i.e., antifungals), the possibility of drug intolerance, treatment failure and recurrence, as well as the appearance of antifungal-resistant Candida species remain critical challenges. Therefore, alternative therapeutic strategies against VVC are urgently required. In recent years, an improved understanding of the dysbiotic vaginal microbiota (VMB) during VVC has prompted the consideration of administering -biotics to restore the balance of the VMB within the context of VVC prevention and treatment. Here, we aim to summarize the current evidence of the anti-Candida effects of probiotics, postbiotics and synbiotics and their potential use as an alternative/complementary therapy against VVC. Additionally, this review discusses advantages and challenges associated with the application of -biotics in VVC to provide guidance for their later use. We also review new developments in VVC therapy, i.e., vaginal microbiota transplantation (VMT) as an emerging live biotherapeutic therapy against VVC and discuss existing shortcomings associated with this nascent field, expecting to stimulate further investigations for introduction of new therapies against VVC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yufei Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University Jiangxi Medical College, No.1299, Xuefu Avenue, Honggutan District, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, China
- Queen Mary School, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, No.1299, Xuefu Avenue, Honggutan District, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Zhaoxia Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University Jiangxi Medical College, No.1299, Xuefu Avenue, Honggutan District, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Tingtao Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University Jiangxi Medical College, No.1299, Xuefu Avenue, Honggutan District, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, China
- School of Pharmacy, National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and the Technologies, Institute of Translational Medicine, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, No.1299, Xuefu Avenue, Honggutan District, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, China
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6
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Zhang Z, Ma Q, Zhang L, Ma L, Wang D, Yang Y, Jia P, Wu Y, Wang F. Human papillomavirus and cervical cancer in the microbial world: exploring the vaginal microecology. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1325500. [PMID: 38333037 PMCID: PMC10850380 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1325500] [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: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
The vaginal microbiota plays a crucial role in female reproductive health and is considered a biomarker for predicting disease outcomes and personalized testing. However, its relationship with human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and cervical cancer is not yet clear. Therefore, this article provides a review of the association between the vaginal microbiota, HPV infection, and cervical cancer. We discuss the composition of the vaginal microbiota, its dysbiosis, and its relationship with HPV infection, as well as potential mechanisms in the development of cervical cancer. In addition, we assess the feasibility of treatment strategies such as probiotics and vaginal microbiota transplantation to modulate the vaginal microbiota for the prevention and treatment of diseases related to HPV infection and cervical cancer. In the future, extensive replication studies are still needed to gain a deeper understanding of the complex relationship between the vaginal microbiota, HPV infection, and cervical cancer, and to clarify the role of the vaginal microbiota as a potential biomarker for predicting disease outcomes, thus providing a theoretical basis for personalized testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhemei Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Gansu Provincial Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
- Gansu Provincial Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Qingmei Ma
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Gansu Provincial Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
- Gansu Provincial Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Gansu Provincial Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
- Gansu Provincial Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Li Ma
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Gansu Provincial Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
- Gansu Provincial Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Danni Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Gansu Provincial Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
- Gansu Provincial Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Yongqing Yang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Gansu Provincial Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
- Gansu Provincial Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Pengxia Jia
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Gansu Provincial Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
- Gansu Provincial Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Yang Wu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Gansu Provincial Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
- Gansu Provincial Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Fang Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Gansu Provincial Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
- Gansu Provincial Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
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Hashimoto K. Emerging role of the host microbiome in neuropsychiatric disorders: overview and future directions. Mol Psychiatry 2023; 28:3625-3637. [PMID: 37845499 PMCID: PMC10730413 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02287-6] [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: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
The human body harbors a diverse ecosystem of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, collectively known as the microbiota. Current research is increasingly focusing on the potential association between the microbiota and various neuropsychiatric disorders. The microbiota resides in various parts of the body, such as the oral cavity, nasal passages, lungs, gut, skin, bladder, and vagina. The gut microbiota in the gastrointestinal tract has received particular attention due to its high abundance and its potential role in psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders. However, the microbiota presents in other body tissues, though less abundant, also plays crucial role in immune system and human homeostasis, thus influencing the development and progression of neuropsychiatric disorders. For example, oral microbiota imbalance and associated periodontitis might increase the risk for neuropsychiatric disorders. Additionally, studies using the postmortem brain samples have detected the widespread presence of oral bacteria in the brains of patients with Alzheimer's disease. This article provides an overview of the emerging role of the host microbiota in neuropsychiatric disorders and discusses future directions, such as underlying biological mechanisms, reliable biomarkers associated with the host microbiota, and microbiota-targeted interventions, for research in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenji Hashimoto
- Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Chiba University Center for Forensic Mental Health, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan.
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8
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Sharifian K, Shoja Z, Jalilvand S. The interplay between human papillomavirus and vaginal microbiota in cervical cancer development. Virol J 2023; 20:73. [PMID: 37076931 PMCID: PMC10114331 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-023-02037-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the past few decades, we have grown accustomed to the idea that human papillomavirus can cause tumors. The genetic and environmental factors that make the difference between elimination of viral infection and the development of cancer are therefore an area of active investigation at present. Microbiota has emerged as an important factor that may affect this balance by increasing or decreasing the ability of viral infection to promote. The female reproductive system has its specific microbiota that helps to maintain health and prevent infection with pathogens. In contrast to other mucosal sites, the vaginal microbiota typically has low diversity and contains few Lactobacillus spp. which by using high-throughput 16s rRNA gene sequencing, classified into five different community state types. According to emerging information, increased diversity of vaginal microbiota and reduced abundance of Lactobacillus spp. contribute to HPV acquisition, persistence, and development of cervical cancer. In this review, the role of normal female reproductive tract microbiota in health, mechanisms which dysbiosis can cause diseases through interaction with microbes and several therapeutic approaches were addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimia Sharifian
- Department of Virology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 14155, Iran
| | | | - Somayeh Jalilvand
- Department of Virology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 14155, Iran.
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Park MG, Cho S, Oh MM. Menopausal Changes in the Microbiome-A Review Focused on the Genitourinary Microbiome. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13061193. [PMID: 36980501 PMCID: PMC10047399 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13061193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
A balanced interaction between the host and its microbiome is crucial to health. Research regarding the significance of the gut and vaginal microbiomes in female health is substantial. However, less data regarding the urinary microbiome are available. Interactions between the gut, vaginal, and urinary microbiomes are also currently being researched. Hormone-induced dysbiosis after menopause is believed to have effects on physical changes and health consequences. Postmenopausal changes in the gut microbiome are associated with increased short-chain fatty acids and hydrogen sulfide levels. Increased vaginal pH caused by reduced estrogen alters the vaginal microbiome, resulting in reduced levels of Lactobacillus. Such changes influence the vaginal structure and functions, contributing to the onset of genitourinary syndrome of menopause. A dysbiosis of the urinary microbiome is associated with urgency and urinary incontinence and also related to interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome and neuropathic bladder. As these diseases commonly affect postmenopausal women, hormone-induced changes in the microbiome may play a role. Menopause increases the alpha diversity of the urinary microbiome and lowers the percentage of Lactobacillus in urine, and such changes precede recurrent cystitis. More research regarding the effects of changes in the urinary microbiome due to menopause on urinary tract diseases is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Gu Park
- Department of Urology, Inje University Seoul Paik Hospital, 9 Mareunnae-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul 04551, Republic of Korea
| | - Seok Cho
- Department of Urology, Inje University Ilsan Paik Hospital, 170 Juhwa-ro, Ilsanseo-gu, Goyang-si 10380, Republic of Korea
| | - Mi Mi Oh
- Department of Urology, Korea University Guro Hospital, 148 Gurodong-ro, Guro-gu, Seoul 08308, Republic of Korea
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Li Y, Zhu W, Jiang Y, Lessing DJ, Chu W. Synthetic bacterial consortia transplantation for the treatment of Gardnerella vaginalis-induced bacterial vaginosis in mice. MICROBIOME 2023; 11:54. [PMID: 36941732 PMCID: PMC10026434 DOI: 10.1186/s40168-023-01497-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a disease caused by vaginal microbiota dysbiosis. Here, we propose the use of synthetic bacterial consortia transplantation (SBCT) for the treatment of Gardnerella vaginalis-induced BV mice. The results showed that SBCT significantly reduced vaginal tissue damage and restored the vaginal microbiota, decreased the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and IL-8), and suppressed NF-κB activation. IL-17, iNOS, and COX-2 expression in vaginal tissue were also down-regulated. However, IL-10 and Foxp3 showed up-regulated expression in mice. Compared with vaginal microbiota transplantation (VMT), results indicated that VMT was more effective than SBCT in suppressing G. vaginalis-induced inflammation. The obtained results suggest that synthetic bacterial consortia might be used as a potential biotherapeutic agent for the treatment of G. vaginalis-induced bacterial vaginosis. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunxia Li
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Wei Zhu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Yan Jiang
- Animal, Plant and Food Inspection Center of Nanjing Customs, Nanjing, 210019, China
| | - Duncan James Lessing
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Weihua Chu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
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11
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Gholiof M, Adamson-De Luca E, Wessels JM. The female reproductive tract microbiotas, inflammation, and gynecological conditions. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2022; 4:963752. [PMID: 36303679 PMCID: PMC9580710 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2022.963752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The intricate interactions between the host cells, bacteria, and immune components that reside in the female reproductive tract (FRT) are essential in maintaining reproductive tract homeostasis. Much of our current knowledge surrounding the FRT microbiota relates to the vaginal microbiota, where ‘health’ has long been associated with low bacterial diversity and Lactobacillus dominance. This concept has recently been challenged as women can have a diverse vaginal microbial composition in the absence of symptomatic disease. The structures of the upper FRT (the endocervix, uterus, Fallopian tubes, and ovaries) have distinct, lower biomass microbiotas than the vagina; however, the existence of permanent microbiotas at these sites is disputed. During homeostasis, a balance exists between the FRT bacteria and the immune system that maintains immune quiescence. Alterations in the bacteria, immune system, or local environment may result in perturbances to the FRT microbiota, defined as dysbiosis. The inflammatory signature of a perturbed or “dysbiotic” FRT microbiota is characterized by elevated concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokines in cervical and vaginal fluid. It appears that vaginal homeostasis can be disrupted by two different mechanisms: first, a shift toward increased bacterial diversity can trigger vaginal inflammation, and second, local immunity is altered in some manner, which disrupts the microbiota in response to an environmental change. FRT dysbiosis can have negative effects on reproductive health. This review will examine the increasing evidence for the involvement of the FRT microbiotas and inflammation in gynecologic conditions such as endometriosis, infertility, and endometrial and ovarian cancer; however, the precise mechanisms by which bacteria are involved in these conditions remains speculative at present. While only in their infancy, the use of antibiotics and probiotics to therapeutically alter the FRT microbiota is being studied and is discussed herein. Our current understanding of the intimate relationship between immunity and the FRT microbiota is in its early days, and more research is needed to deepen our mechanistic understanding of this relationship and to assess how our present knowledge can be harnessed to assist in diagnosis and treatment of gynecologic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahsa Gholiof
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Emma Adamson-De Luca
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- AIMA Laboratories Inc., Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Jocelyn M. Wessels
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- AIMA Laboratories Inc., Hamilton, ON, Canada
- *Correspondence: Jocelyn M. Wessels
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12
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Zhao X, Jiang L, Fang X, Guo Z, Wang X, Shi B, Meng Q. Host-microbiota interaction-mediated resistance to inflammatory bowel disease in pigs. MICROBIOME 2022; 10:115. [PMID: 35907917 PMCID: PMC9338544 DOI: 10.1186/s40168-022-01303-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Disease resistance phenotypes are associated with immune regulatory functions and immune tolerance and have implications for both the livestock industry and human health. Microbiota plays an essential role in regulating immunity and autoimmunity in the host organism, but the influence of host-microbiota interactions on disease resistance phenotypes remains unclear. Here, multiomics analysis was performed to identify potential regulatory mechanisms of disease resistance at both the microbiome and host levels in two pig breeds. RESULTS Acute colitis models were established in Min pigs and Yorkshire pigs, and control and diseased individuals were compared. Compared with Yorkshire pigs under the same nutritional and management conditions, Min pigs exhibited strong disease resistance, as indicated by a low disease activity index (DAI) and a low histological activity index (HAI). Microbiota sequencing analysis showed that potentially harmful microbes Desulfovibrio, Bacteroides and Streptococcus were enriched in diseased individuals of the two breeds. Notably, potentially beneficial microbes, such as Lactobacillus, Clostridia and Eubacterium, and several genera belonging to Ruminococcaceae and Christensenellaceae were enriched in diseased Min pigs and were found to be positively associated with the microbial metabolites related to intestinal barrier function. Specifically, the concentrations of indole derivatives and short-chain fatty acids were increased in diseased Min pigs, suggesting beneficial action in protecting intestinal barrier. In addition, lower concentrations of bile acid metabolites and short-chain fatty acids were observed in diseased Yorkshire pigs, which were associated with increased potentially harmful microbes, such as Bilophila and Alistipes. Concerning enrichment of the immune response, the increase in CD4+ T cells in the lamina propria improved supervision of the host immunity response in diseased Min pigs, contributing to the maintenance of Th2-type immune superiority and immune tolerance patterns and control of excessive inflammation with the help of potentially beneficial microbes. In diseased Yorkshire pigs, more terms belonging to biological processes of immunity were enriched, including Toll-like receptors signalling, NF-κB signalling and Th1 and Th17-type immune responses, along with the increases of potentially harmful microbes and damaged intestinal barrier. CONCLUSIONS Cumulatively, the results for the two pig breeds highlight that host-microbiota crosstalk promotes a disease resistance phenotype in three ways: by maintaining partial PRR nonactivation, maintaining Th2-type immune superiority and immunological tolerance patterns and recovering gut barrier function to protect against colonic diseases. Video abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Zhao
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, People's Republic of China
| | - Lin Jiang
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiuyu Fang
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhiqiang Guo
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoxu Wang
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, People's Republic of China
| | - Baoming Shi
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, People's Republic of China.
| | - Qingwei Meng
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, People's Republic of China.
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13
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Decorated bacteria and the application in drug delivery. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 188:114443. [PMID: 35817214 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2022.114443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The use of living bacteria either as therapeutic agents or drug carriers has shown great potential in treating a multitude of intractable diseases. However, cells are often fragile to unfriendly environmental stressors and limited by inadequately therapeutic responses, leading to unwanted cell death and a decline in treatment efficacy. Surface decoration of bacteria has emerged as a simple yet useful strategy that not only confers bacteria with extra capacity to resist environmental threats but also endows them with exogenous characteristics that are neither inherent nor naturally achievable. In this review, we systematically introduce the advancements of physicochemical and biological technologies for surface modification of bacteria, especially the single-cell surface decoration strategies of individual bacteria. We highlight the recent progress on surface decoration that aims to improve the bioavailability and efficacy of therapeutic bacterial agents and also to achieve enhanced and targeted delivery of conventional drugs. The promises along with challenges of surface-decorated bacteria as drug delivery systems for applications in cancer therapy, intestinal disease treatment, bioimaging, and diagnosis are further discussed with respect to future clinical translation. This review offers an overview of the advances of decorated bacteria for drug delivery applications and would contribute to the development of the next generation of advanced bacterial-based therapies.
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14
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Balakrishnan SN, Yamang H, Lorenz MC, Chew SY, Than LTL. Role of Vaginal Mucosa, Host Immunity and Microbiota in Vulvovaginal Candidiasis. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11060618. [PMID: 35745472 PMCID: PMC9230866 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11060618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a prevalent gynaecological disease characterised by vaginal wall inflammation that is caused by Candida species. VVC impacts almost three-quarters of all women throughout their reproductive years. As the vaginal mucosa is the first point of contact with microbes, vaginal epithelial cells are the first line of defence against opportunistic Candida infection by providing a physical barrier and mounting immunological responses. The mechanisms of defence against this infection are displayed through the rapid shedding of epithelial cells, the presence of pattern recognition receptors, and the release of inflammatory cytokines. The bacterial microbiota within the mucosal layer presents another form of defence mechanism within the vagina through acidic pH regulation, the release of antifungal peptides and physiological control against dysbiosis. The significant role of the microbiota in maintaining vaginal health promotes its application as one of the potential treatment modalities against VVC with the hope of alleviating the burden of VVC, especially the recurrent disease. This review discusses and summarises current progress in understanding the role of vaginal mucosa and host immunity upon infection, together with the function of vaginal microbiota in VVC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subatrra Nair Balakrishnan
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43300, Selangor, Malaysia; (S.N.B.); (H.Y.)
| | - Haizat Yamang
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43300, Selangor, Malaysia; (S.N.B.); (H.Y.)
| | - Michael C. Lorenz
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - Shu Yih Chew
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43300, Selangor, Malaysia; (S.N.B.); (H.Y.)
- Correspondence: (S.Y.C.); (L.T.L.T.)
| | - Leslie Thian Lung Than
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43300, Selangor, Malaysia; (S.N.B.); (H.Y.)
- Correspondence: (S.Y.C.); (L.T.L.T.)
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15
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Wu S, Hugerth LW, Schuppe-Koistinen I, Du J. The right bug in the right place: opportunities for bacterial vaginosis treatment. NPJ Biofilms Microbiomes 2022; 8:34. [PMID: 35501321 PMCID: PMC9061781 DOI: 10.1038/s41522-022-00295-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a condition in which the vaginal microbiome presents an overgrowth of obligate and facultative anaerobes, which disturbs the vaginal microbiome balance. BV is a common and recurring vaginal infection among women of reproductive age and is associated with adverse health outcomes and a decreased quality of life. The current recommended first-line treatment for BV is antibiotics, despite the high recurrence rate. Live biopharmaceutical products/probiotics and vaginal microbiome transplantation (VMT) have also been tested in clinical trials for BV. In this review, we discuss the advantages and challenges of current BV treatments and interventions. Furthermore, we provide our understanding of why current clinical trials with probiotics have had mixed results, which is mainly due to not administering the correct bacteria to the correct body site. Here, we propose a great opportunity for large clinical trials with probiotic strains isolated from the vaginal tract (e.g., Lactobacillus crispatus) and administered directly into the vagina after pretreatment.
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16
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Mohankumar B, Shandil R, Narayanan S, Krishnan UM. Vaginosis: Advances in new therapeutic development and microbiome restoration. Microb Pathog 2022; 168:105606. [DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2022.105606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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17
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Liu ZZ, Sun JH, Wang WJ. Gut microbiota in gastrointestinal diseases during pregnancy. World J Clin Cases 2022; 10:2976-2989. [PMID: 35647135 PMCID: PMC9082698 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v10.i10.2976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 07/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Gut microbiota (GM) is a micro-ecosystem composed of all microorganisms in the human intestine. The interaction between GM and the host plays an important role in maintaining normal physiological functions in the host. Dysbiosis of the GM may cause various diseases. GM has been demonstrated to be associated with human health and disease, and changes during individual development and disease. Pregnancy is a complicated physiological process. Hormones, the immune system, metabolism, and GM undergo drastic changes during pregnancy. Gastrointestinal diseases during pregnancy, such as hepatitis, intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, and pre-eclampsia, can affect both maternal and fetal health. The dysregulation of GM during pregnancy may lead to a variety of diseases, including gastrointestinal diseases. Herein, we review recent research articles on GM in pregnancy-related gastrointestinal diseases, discuss the interaction of the GM with the host under normal physiological conditions, gastrointestinal diseases, and pregnancy-specific disorders. As more attention is paid to reproductive health, the pathogenic mechanism of GM in gastrointestinal diseases during pregnancy will be further studied to provide a theoretical basis for the use of probiotics to treat these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhong-Zhen Liu
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Jing-Hua Sun
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, Guangdong Province, China
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Wen-Jing Wang
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, Guangdong Province, China
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18
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Lu F, Wei J, Zhong Y, Feng Y, Ma B, Xiong Y, Wei K, Tan B, Chen T. Antibiotic Therapy and Vaginal Microbiota Transplantation Reduce Endometriosis Disease Progression in Female Mice via NF-κB Signaling Pathway. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:831115. [PMID: 35433736 PMCID: PMC9005645 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.831115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis (EMS) is a disease characterized by estrogen-dependent, chronic inflammatory, and annoying symptoms, which inflicts about 10% reproductive-age women. The diagnosis of endometriosis mainly depends on pathological examination after surgical resection while the pathogenesis of EMS is not clear enough. Surgical resection and drug therapy (including painkillers and hormone therapy, especially gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogs, GnRH-a) are widely used, but they are expensive and have many side effects. There are few studies on vaginal microorganisms in women with endometriosis. We collected vaginal secretions from women with EMS confirmed by pathology and demonstrated that they were different from that of healthy women by 16s rRNA high-throughput sequencing. Additionally, we established the EMS model in female mice by intraperitoneally injecting fragments from donor mice (3-week growth). Then, the mice were treated with mixed antibiotics (vagina) and NF-κB signaling pathway inhibitors (intraperitoneal injection), respectively. The result suggested that the ectopic lesions were inhibited. In addition, inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α in peritoneal fluid, cell proliferation marker ki-67, and macrophage marker Iba-1 in ectopic lesions decreased significantly from that of mock mice. We also observed similar results as above by vaginal microbiota transplantation (VMT) and subcutaneous injection of leuprorelin acetate (LA, one of GnRH-a) for mice with EMS. These results showed that vaginal use of antibiotics or VMT is helpful to treat endometriosis in mice. However, due to the great difference between human and mouse vaginal microbiota, its mechanism and clinical transformation application still need to be further studied in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feilei Lu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Jing Wei
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Yanying Zhong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Ying Feng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Bo Ma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Yifei Xiong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Kehong Wei
- Queen Mary School, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Buzhen Tan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- *Correspondence: Buzhen Tan,
| | - Tingtao Chen
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Tingtao Chen,
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19
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Toson B, Simon C, Moreno I. The Endometrial Microbiome and Its Impact on Human Conception. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23010485. [PMID: 35008911 PMCID: PMC8745284 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23010485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Changes in the female genital tract microbiome are consistently correlated to gynecological and obstetrical pathologies, and tract dysbiosis can impact reproductive outcomes during fertility treatment. Nonetheless, a consensus regarding the physiological microbiome core inside the uterine cavity has not been reached due to a myriad of study limitations, such as sample size and experimental design variations, and the influence of endometrial bacterial communities on human reproduction remains debated. Understanding the healthy endometrial microbiota and how changes in its composition affect fertility would potentially allow personalized treatment through microbiome management during assisted reproductive therapies, ultimately leading to improvement of clinical outcomes. Here, we review current knowledge regarding the uterine microbiota and how it relates to human conception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Toson
- INCLIVA Biomedical Research Institute, Av. Menendez y Pelayo 4, 46010 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Carlos Simon
- Igenomix Foundation/INCLIVA Biomedical Research Institute, Narcis Monturiol Estarriol 11B, 46980 Paterna, Spain
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Valencia, Av. Blásco Ibáñez 15, 46010 Valencia, Spain
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard University, 330 Brookline Ave, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Correspondence: (C.S.); (I.M.)
| | - Inmaculada Moreno
- Igenomix Foundation/INCLIVA Biomedical Research Institute, Narcis Monturiol Estarriol 11B, 46980 Paterna, Spain
- Correspondence: (C.S.); (I.M.)
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20
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Abou Chacra L, Fenollar F. Exploring the global vaginal microbiome and its impact on human health. Microb Pathog 2021; 160:105172. [PMID: 34500016 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2021.105172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Around the world, more than 175,000,000 women are diagnosed every year with gynaecological disease, in many cases contributing to high morbidity and mortality. For this reason, knowledge of the composition of the vaginal microbiome and its variations represents a real health challenge, as this is key to improving therapeutic management. This review traces the history of the poorly known vaginal microbiome and focuses on the latest findings concerning this ecosystem. Studies in the past decade have targeted complex bacterial communities within the vagina. However, due to the development of technology and the emergence of next generation sequencing (NGS), the exact definition of the vaginal microbiome has changed and can no longer be linked solely to the presence of bacteria. In order to reach a global view of the vaginal microbiome, it is essential to take into account all microorganisms that the vagina harbours, including fungi, viruses, archaea, and candidate phyla radiation. Although these communities represent only a minimal percentage of the vaginal microbiome, they may act as modifiers of its basic physiology and may play a key role in the maintenance of microbial communities, as well as metabolic and immune functions. Studies of the complex interactions between these different microorganisms have recently begun and are not yet fully understood. Results to date indicate that these microbial communities together constitute the first line of defence against infections. On the other hand, the slightest disturbance in this microbiome may lead to disease. For this reason, enhanced knowledge of these associations is critical to better identify predispositions to certain illnesses, which may open new therapeutic avenues. Currently however, only the tip of the iceberg is understood and current research on this ecosystem is revolutionising our knowledge and understanding of human health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Abou Chacra
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, Marseille, France; IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
| | - Florence Fenollar
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, Marseille, France; IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France.
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21
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Sun Z, Meng J, Wang S, Yang F, Liu T, Zeng X, Zhang D, Zhu H, Chi W, Liu Y, Jiang W, Ding L, Miao Y, Wu Y, Zhao H, Zhang Y. A New Multiplex Genetic Detection Assay Method for the Rapid Semi-Quantitative Detection of Six Common Curable Sexually Transmitted Pathogens From the Genital Tract. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:704037. [PMID: 34497776 PMCID: PMC8420868 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.704037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are some of the most common communicable conditions and exert impact on the health and lives of many hundreds of millions of people across the world every year. Screening high-risk populations and conducting comprehensive detection tests would lead to a significant improvement in preventing the transmission of STIs and help us to provide rapid treatment to those affected. Here, we successfully established and validated a novel high-throughput multiplex gene detection system (HMGS) for the simultaneous and semiquantitative detection of six important curable sexually transmitted pathogens in a single reaction from secretions samples. Method Fluorescently labeled primers were designed to target specific conserved and single-copy gene fragments of Ureaplasma urealyticum (U. urealyticum), Mycoplasma hominis (M. hominis), Chlamydia trachomatis (C. trachomatis), Neisseria gonorrhoeae (N. gonorrhoeae), Trichomonas vaginalis (T. vaginalis), and Treponema pallidum (T. pallidum). The specificity and sensitivity of the STI-HMGS was validated and optimized using plasmids and quantitative genomic DNA. Next, we validated the performances of the STI-HMGS for clinical application by testing samples of clinical secretions collected from patients who visited the gynecology and urology outpatient clinics of our reproductive medicine center. Results derived from the STI-HMGS were then compared with three approved commercialized kits that used to detect U. urealyticum, C. trachomatis and N. gonorrhoeae, respectively, followed by further validation with Sanger sequencing for all pathogens. Finally, a comprehensive analysis of epidemiology was performed among different subgroups to investigate the association between infection rates and clinically-relevant information. Results The sensitivity of STI-HMGS for six target genes was 10 copies/µL. Data derived from the detection of 381 clinical secretions demonstrated that the STI-HMGS exhibited high concordance rate compared with approved commercialized kits and almost 100% sensitivity and specificity for the detection of six sexually transmitted pathogens when validated by Sanger sequencing. Semi-quantitative analysis found that STIs caused by N. gonorrhoeae had a significantly higher (P<0.05) pathogen load than the other pathogens. Infections caused by C. trachomatis were significantly more common in younger individuals (P<0.05). We also found that U. urealyticum infections were more likely to happen in females; while the males were more affected by N. gonorrhoeae (P<0.05). Conclusions STI-HMGS proved to be an efficient method for the semi-quantitative detection of six important curable sexually transmitted pathogens and therefore represents an alternative method for the clinical detection and monitoring of STIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoyang Sun
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Huadong Hospital, Affiliated With Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Key Laboratory of Clinical Geriatric Medicine, Huadong Hospital, Shanghai, China.,Research Center on Aging and Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Meng
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Su Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Huadong Hospital, Affiliated With Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Key Laboratory of Clinical Geriatric Medicine, Huadong Hospital, Shanghai, China.,Research Center on Aging and Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Feng Yang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Huadong Hospital, Affiliated With Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Key Laboratory of Clinical Geriatric Medicine, Huadong Hospital, Shanghai, China.,Research Center on Aging and Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tao Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Huadong Hospital, Affiliated With Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Key Laboratory of Clinical Geriatric Medicine, Huadong Hospital, Shanghai, China.,Research Center on Aging and Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xianping Zeng
- Department of Research and Development, Ningbo HEALTH Gene Technologies Co., Ltd, Ningbo, China
| | - Dijun Zhang
- Department of Research and Development, Ningbo HEALTH Gene Technologies Co., Ltd, Ningbo, China
| | - Haowei Zhu
- Department of Research and Development, Ningbo HEALTH Gene Technologies Co., Ltd, Ningbo, China
| | - Wenjing Chi
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Huadong Hospital, Affiliated With Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Key Laboratory of Clinical Geriatric Medicine, Huadong Hospital, Shanghai, China.,Research Center on Aging and Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yixin Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Huadong Hospital, Affiliated With Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Key Laboratory of Clinical Geriatric Medicine, Huadong Hospital, Shanghai, China.,Research Center on Aging and Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenrong Jiang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Huadong Hospital, Affiliated With Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Key Laboratory of Clinical Geriatric Medicine, Huadong Hospital, Shanghai, China.,Research Center on Aging and Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Li Ding
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Huadong Hospital, Affiliated With Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Key Laboratory of Clinical Geriatric Medicine, Huadong Hospital, Shanghai, China.,Research Center on Aging and Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yingxin Miao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Huadong Hospital, Affiliated With Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Key Laboratory of Clinical Geriatric Medicine, Huadong Hospital, Shanghai, China.,Research Center on Aging and Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yong Wu
- Department of Research and Development, Ningbo HEALTH Gene Technologies Co., Ltd, Ningbo, China
| | - Hu Zhao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Huadong Hospital, Affiliated With Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Key Laboratory of Clinical Geriatric Medicine, Huadong Hospital, Shanghai, China.,Research Center on Aging and Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanmei Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Huadong Hospital, Affiliated With Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Key Laboratory of Clinical Geriatric Medicine, Huadong Hospital, Shanghai, China.,Research Center on Aging and Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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22
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Jones-Freeman B, Chonwerawong M, Marcelino VR, Deshpande AV, Forster SC, Starkey MR. The microbiome and host mucosal interactions in urinary tract diseases. Mucosal Immunol 2021; 14:779-792. [PMID: 33542492 DOI: 10.1038/s41385-020-00372-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The urinary tract consists of the bladder, ureters, and kidneys, and is an essential organ system for filtration and excretion of waste products and maintaining systemic homeostasis. In this capacity, the urinary tract is impacted by its interactions with other mucosal sites, including the genitourinary and gastrointestinal systems. Each of these sites harbors diverse ecosystems of microbes termed the microbiota, that regulates complex interactions with the local and systemic immune system. It remains unclear whether changes in the microbiota and associated metabolites may be a consequence or a driver of urinary tract diseases. Here, we review the current literature, investigating the impact of the microbiota on the urinary tract in homeostasis and disease including urinary stones, acute kidney injury, chronic kidney disease, and urinary tract infection. We propose new avenues for exploration of the urinary microbiome using emerging technology and discuss the potential of microbiome-based medicine for urinary tract conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernadette Jones-Freeman
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Michelle Chonwerawong
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Vanessa R Marcelino
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Aniruddh V Deshpande
- Priority Research Centre GrowUpWell, Faculty of Health and Medicine, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Department of Pediatric Urology and Surgery, John Hunter Children's Hospital, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia.,Urology Unit, Department of Pediatric Surgery, Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney Children's Hospital Network, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Samuel C Forster
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Malcolm R Starkey
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia. .,Priority Research Centre GrowUpWell, Faculty of Health and Medicine, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.
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23
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Han Y, Liu Z, Chen T. Role of Vaginal Microbiota Dysbiosis in Gynecological Diseases and the Potential Interventions. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:643422. [PMID: 34220737 PMCID: PMC8249587 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.643422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Vaginal microbiota dysbiosis, characterized by the loss of Lactobacillus dominance and increase of microbial diversity, is closely related to gynecological diseases; thus, intervention on microbiota composition is significant and promising in the treatment of gynecological diseases. Currently, antibiotics and/or probiotics are the mainstay of treatment, which show favorable therapeutic effects but also bring problems such as drug resistance and high recurrence. In this review, we discuss the role of vaginal microbiota dysbiosis in various gynecological infectious and non-infectious diseases, as well as the current and potential interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiwen Han
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Queen Mary School, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Zhaoxia Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Tingtao Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and the Technologies, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
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Ding C, Yu Y, Zhou Q. Bacterial Vaginosis: Effects on reproduction and its therapeutics. J Gynecol Obstet Hum Reprod 2021; 50:102174. [PMID: 34087449 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogoh.2021.102174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Revised: 04/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) is the most common vaginal infection. A large amount of evidence shows that the anatomical scope of BV's pathogenic effect is far beyond the lower reproductive tract. BV is closely related to adverse reproductive outcomes, which may be due to the infection of the vaginal flora ascending to the upper genital tract. In addition, the incidence of BV is relatively high in infertile women. The vaginal microbiome also plays an important role in women's health and diseases. For most women, the normal vaginal microbiota is dominated by Lactobacillus, which can maintain a healthy vaginal environment by producing lactic acid, H2O2 and bacteriocin, etc. BV is characterized by the imbalanced vaginal flora. It changes the acidic environment that is normally dominated by Lactobacillus, and causes an overgrowth of anaerobic and facultative anaerobic bacteria such as Gardnerella vaginalis and Atopobium vaginae. Studies have shown that bacterial infections in the vagina can spread to upper genital tract and cause adverse fertility outcome. Therefore, early diagnosis and therapeutics of symptomatic BV is helpful to improve the outcome of poor fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuanfeng Ding
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; Department of Reproductive Immunology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yongsheng Yu
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Qian Zhou
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; Department of Reproductive Immunology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
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25
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El-Sayed A, Aleya L, Kamel M. The link among microbiota, epigenetics, and disease development. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:28926-28964. [PMID: 33860421 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-13862-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The microbiome is a community of various microorganisms that inhabit or live on the skin of humans/animals, sharing the body space with their hosts. It is a sort of complex ecosystem of trillions of commensals, symbiotic, and pathogenic microorganisms, including trillions of bacteria, archaea, protozoa, fungi, and viruses. The microbiota plays a role in the health and disease status of the host. Their number, species dominance, and viability are dynamic. Their long-term disturbance is usually accompanied by serious diseases such as metabolic disorders, cardiovascular diseases, or even cancer. While epigenetics is a term that refers to different stimuli that induce modifications in gene expression patterns without structural changes in the inherited DNA sequence, these changes can be reversible or even persist for several generations. Epigenetics can be described as cell memory that stores experience against internal and external factors. Results from multiple institutions have contributed to the role and close interaction of both microbiota and epigenetics in disease induction. Understanding the mechanisms of both players enables a better understanding of disease induction and development and also opens the horizon to revolutionary therapeutic approaches. The present review illustrates the roles of diet, microbiome, and epigenetics in the induction of several chronic diseases. In addition, it discusses the application of epigenetic data to develop diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutics and evaluate their safety for patients. Understanding the interaction among all these elements enables the development of innovative preventive/therapeutic approaches for disease control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amr El-Sayed
- Department of Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Lotfi Aleya
- Chrono-Environnement Laboratory, UMR CNRS 6249, Bourgogne Franche-Comté University, F-25030, Besançon Cedex, France
| | - Mohamed Kamel
- Department of Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt.
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Moumne O, Hampe ME, Montoya-Williams D, Carson TL, Neu J, Francois M, Rhoton-Vlasak A, Lemas DJ. Implications of the vaginal microbiome and potential restorative strategies on maternal health: a narrative review. J Perinat Med 2021; 49:402-411. [PMID: 33554571 DOI: 10.1515/jpm-2020-0367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The vaginal microbiome undergoes dramatic shifts before and throughout pregnancy. Although the genetic and environmental factors that regulate the vaginal microbiome have yet to be fully elucidated, high-throughput sequencing has provided an unprecedented opportunity to interrogate the vaginal microbiome as a potential source of next-generation therapeutics. Accumulating data demonstrates that vaginal health during pregnancy includes commensal bacteria such as Lactobacillus that serve to reduce pH and prevent pathogenic invasion. Vaginal microbes have been studied as contributors to several conditions occurring before and during pregnancy, and an emerging topic in women's health is finding ways to alter and restore the vaginal microbiome. Among these restorations, perhaps the most significant effect could be preterm labor (PTL) prevention. Since bacterial vaginosis (BV) is known to increase risk of PTL, and vaginal and oral probiotics are effective as supplemental treatments for BV prevention, a potential therapeutic benefit exists for pregnant women at risk of PTL. A new method of restoration, vaginal microbiome transplants (VMTs) involves transfer of one women's cervicovaginal secretions to another. New studies investigating recurrent BV will determine if VMTs can safely establish a healthy Lactobacillus-dominant vaginal microbiome. In most cases, caution must be taken in attributing a disease state and vaginal dysbiosis with a causal relationship, since the underlying reason for dysbiosis is usually unknown. This review focuses on the impact of vaginal microflora on maternal outcomes before and during pregnancy, including PTL, gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and infertility. It then reviews the clinical evidence focused on vaginal restoration strategies, including VMTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia Moumne
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Mary E Hampe
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | | | - Tiffany L Carson
- Division of Preventive Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Josef Neu
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Magda Francois
- Department of Health Outcomes and Biomedical Informatics, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Alice Rhoton-Vlasak
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Dominick J Lemas
- Department of Health Outcomes and Biomedical Informatics, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
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27
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Chandrashekhar P, Minooei F, Arreguin W, Masigol M, Steinbach-Rankins JM. Perspectives on Existing and Novel Alternative Intravaginal Probiotic Delivery Methods in the Context of Bacterial Vaginosis Infection. AAPS J 2021; 23:66. [PMID: 33973067 PMCID: PMC8356663 DOI: 10.1208/s12248-021-00602-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is one of the most common vaginal infections that affects hundreds of millions of women of reproductive age, worldwide. Traditional treatment strategies, such as oral and topical antibiotics, have shown efficacy against BV, but frequent recurrence of infection and the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria remain as significant challenges. Alternatively, recent progress in understanding immune, microbiological, and metabolic interactions in the vaginal microbiota has prompted the consideration of administering probiotic organisms to restore and maintain vaginal health within the context of BV prevention and treatment. Given this, the objective of this review is to discuss existing and potential alternative approaches to deliver, and to potentially sustain the delivery of probiotics, to prevent and/or treat BV infections. First, a brief overview is provided regarding the probiotic species and combinatorial probiotic strategies that have shown promise in the treatment of BV and in restoring female reproductive health. Additionally, the advantages and challenges associated with current oral and intravaginal probiotic delivery platforms are discussed. Lastly, we present emerging and promising alternative dosage forms, such as electrospun fibers and 3D bioprinted scaffolds, that may be adapted as new strategies to intravaginally deliver probiotic organisms. Graphical abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Farnaz Minooei
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Louisville Speed School of Engineering, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
- Center for Predictive Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
| | - Wenndy Arreguin
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Louisville Speed School of Engineering, 505 S. Hancock St., Room 623, Louisville, Kentucky, 40202, USA
| | - Mohammadali Masigol
- Center for Predictive Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Louisville Speed School of Engineering, 505 S. Hancock St., Room 623, Louisville, Kentucky, 40202, USA
| | - Jill M Steinbach-Rankins
- Center for Predictive Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, USA.
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Louisville Speed School of Engineering, 505 S. Hancock St., Room 623, Louisville, Kentucky, 40202, USA.
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky, USA.
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky, USA.
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28
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Vaginal Probiotics for Reproductive Health and Related Dysbiosis: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10071461. [PMID: 33918150 PMCID: PMC8037567 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10071461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of probiotics in reproductive-related dysbiosis is an area of continuous progress due to the growing interest from clinicians and patients suffering from recurrent reproductive microbiota disorders. An imbalance in the natural colonization sites related to reproductive health—vaginal, cervicovaginal, endometrial, and pregnancy-related altered microbiota—could play a decisive role in reproductive outcomes. Oral and vaginal administrations are in continuous discussion regarding the clinical effects pursued, but the oral route is used and studied more often despite the need for further transference to the colonization site. The aim of the present review was to retrieve the standardized protocols of vaginal probiotics commonly used for investigating their microbiota modulation capacities. Most of the studies selected focused on treating bacterial vaginosis (BV) as the most common dysbiosis; a few studies focused on vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) and on pretreatment during in vitro fertilization (IVF). Vaginal probiotic doses administered were similar to oral probiotics protocols, ranging from ≥107 CFU/day to 2.5 × 1010 CFU/day, but were highly variable regarding the treatment duration timing. Moderate vaginal microbiota modulation was achieved; the relative abundance of abnormal microbiota decreased and Lactobacillus species increased.
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29
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Chen T, Xia C, Hu H, Wang H, Tan B, Tian P, Zhao X, Wang L, Han Y, Deng KY, Wei H, Xin HB. Dysbiosis of the rat vagina is efficiently rescued by vaginal microbiota transplantation or probiotic combination. Int J Antimicrob Agents 2021; 57:106277. [PMID: 33434677 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijantimicag.2021.106277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2020] [Revised: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Vaginal dysbiosis is characterised by a disturbed vaginal microbiota and is associated with various gynaecological diseases. Owing to its high recurrence rate, there is an urgent need for the development of effective therapeutic agents. In the present study, a vaginal dysbiosis model was developed to study the effect of vaginal microbiota transplantation (VMT) or probiotic combination (containing Lactobacillus helveticus, Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus gasseri and Lactobacillus salivarius) on vaginal dysbiosis. Our results indicated that VMT or probiotic combination significantly reduced bacterial-induced inflammation (infiltration of neutrophils, lymphocytes and monocytes) in the uterine wall and the enrichment of pro-inflammatory cytokines [interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα)] in vaginal tissue, and restored the disturbed vaginal microbiota to normal levels (increased numbers of Lactobacillus and decreased numbers of Enterobacter and Enterococcus), thus it should be beneficial for avoiding the recurrence of vaginal dysbiosis. Therefore, VMT or probiotic combination might be an effective agent for the treatment of bacterial-induced vaginosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingtao Chen
- National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and the Technologies, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, PR China.
| | - Chaofei Xia
- National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and the Technologies, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, PR China
| | - Hong Hu
- National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and the Technologies, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, PR China
| | - Huan Wang
- National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and the Technologies, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, PR China
| | - Buzhen Tan
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, PR China
| | - Puyuan Tian
- National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and the Technologies, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, PR China
| | - Xiaoxiao Zhao
- National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and the Technologies, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, PR China
| | - Le Wang
- National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and the Technologies, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, PR China
| | - Yiwen Han
- National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and the Technologies, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, PR China
| | - Ke-Yu Deng
- National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and the Technologies, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, PR China
| | - Hong Wei
- Precision Medicine Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, PR China.
| | - Hong-Bo Xin
- National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and the Technologies, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, PR China.
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30
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The Role of Gut, Vaginal, and Urinary Microbiome in Urinary Tract Infections: From Bench to Bedside. Diagnostics (Basel) 2020; 11:diagnostics11010007. [PMID: 33375202 PMCID: PMC7822161 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11010007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The current paradigm of urinary tract infection (UTI) pathogenesis takes into account the contamination of the periurethral space by specific uropathogens residing in the gut, which is followed by urethral colonization and pathogen ascension to the urinary bladder. Consequently, studying the relationship between gut microbiota and the subsequent development of bacteriuria and UTI represents an important field of research. However, the well-established diagnostic and therapeutic paradigm for urinary tract infections (UTIs) has come into question with the discovery of a multifaceted, symbiotic microbiome in the healthy urogenital tract. More specifically, emerging data suggest that vaginal dysbiosis may result in Escherichia coli colonization and prompt recurrent UTIs, while urinary microbiome perturbations may precede the development of UTIs and other pathologic conditions of the urinary system. The question is whether these findings can be exploited for risk reduction and treatment purposes. This review aimed to appraise the three aforementioned specific microbiomes regarding their potential influence on UTI development by focusing on the recent studies in the field and assessing the potential linkages between these different niches, as well as evaluating the state of translational research for novel therapeutic and preventative approaches.
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31
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Jayaram PM, Mohan MK, Konje J. Bacterial vaginosis in pregnancy - a storm in the cup of tea. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2020; 253:220-224. [PMID: 32889328 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2020.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Human vaginal microbiota is dominated by Lactobacillus spp both in the non-pregnant and pregnant state. Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is an imbalance of vaginal microbiota caused by a reduction in the normal lactobacillary bacteria, and a heavy over-growth of mixed anaerobic bacteria. Various clinical (Amsel's Criteria), laboratory (Nugent's score) and molecular diagnostic method (quantitative PCR) are used for diagnosis. BV in pregnancy is associated with increased risk of preterm birth, low birth weight, chorioamnionitis and postpartum endometritis, apart from bothersome vaginal discharge. Antibiotic treatment with metronidazole or clindamycin are effective in eradicating bacterial vaginosis and safe to use in pregnancy. Treatment of bacterial vaginosis has not been shown to improve obstetric outcomes in women at low risk of preterm birth, but may reduce the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight in women at increased risk of preterm birth. Routine screening and treatment is not recommended in low risk women. Test for cure should be performed after treatment. Further research is required on other treatment modalities such as probiotic therapy and microbiota transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pradeep M Jayaram
- Sidra Medicine and Weill Cornell Medical College, PO Box 26999, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Manoj K Mohan
- Sidra Medicine and Weill Cornell Medical College, PO Box 26999, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Justin Konje
- Sidra Medicine and Weill Cornell Medical College, PO Box 26999, Doha, Qatar.
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Mauries C, Ranisavljevic N, Gallet R, Fournier A, Gala A, Ferrières-Hoa A, Brouillet S, Hamamah S. [Assessment of genital microbiota: An emerging approach in assisted reproductive techniques]. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 49:185-192. [PMID: 32758671 DOI: 10.1016/j.gofs.2020.07.005] [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: 04/26/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The genital microbiota actively participates in women's reproductive health. Indeed, a genital dysbiosis (microbial imbalance associated with adverse effects on host health) can lead to vaginal infections (such as mycoses or bacterial vaginosis). Recent data reported that genital dysbiosis (e.g. vaginal or endometrial) was associated with fewer chances of live births in assisted reproductive technologies (ART), via decreased pregnancy rates and an increased risk of miscarriages. The presence or diversity of certain bacterial strains (in particular Gardenellavaginalis, Proteobacteria, Lactobacillusjensenii, Lactobacilluscrispatus or Atopobiumvaginae) within the genital microbiota seem to be associated with the outcomes of ART cycles, suggesting new approaches to improve ART results. In this review, we aim at presenting the state of art on the association between the female genital microbiota and ART success. The diagnostic and therapeutic approaches (i.e. probiotics, antibiotic therapy and transplantation of vaginal microbiota) in the management of patients with altered microbiota will also be discussed. The confirmation of these data in the coming years could significantly improve the management of infertile patients in ART with a more personalized approach partially based on the female genital microbiotic profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Mauries
- Département de biologie de la reproduction, CHU de Montpellier, université de Montpellier, 34000 Montpellier, France
| | - N Ranisavljevic
- Département de médecine de la reproduction, CHU de Montpellier, université de Montpellier, 34000 Montpellier, France
| | - R Gallet
- Inserm 1203, développement embryonnaire précoce humain et pluripotence, université de Montpellier, 34000 Montpellier, France
| | - A Fournier
- Département de biologie de la reproduction, CHU de Montpellier, université de Montpellier, 34000 Montpellier, France; Inserm 1203, développement embryonnaire précoce humain et pluripotence, université de Montpellier, 34000 Montpellier, France
| | - A Gala
- Département de biologie de la reproduction, CHU de Montpellier, université de Montpellier, 34000 Montpellier, France; Inserm 1203, développement embryonnaire précoce humain et pluripotence, université de Montpellier, 34000 Montpellier, France
| | - A Ferrières-Hoa
- Département de biologie de la reproduction, CHU de Montpellier, université de Montpellier, 34000 Montpellier, France; Inserm 1203, développement embryonnaire précoce humain et pluripotence, université de Montpellier, 34000 Montpellier, France
| | - S Brouillet
- Département de biologie de la reproduction, CHU de Montpellier, université de Montpellier, 34000 Montpellier, France; Inserm 1203, développement embryonnaire précoce humain et pluripotence, université de Montpellier, 34000 Montpellier, France; Centre clinique et biologique d'assistance médicale à la procréation, centre d'étude et de conservation des œufs et du sperme humains (CECOS), centre hospitalier universitaire de Grenoble, hôpital Couple-enfant, 38700 La Tronche, France.
| | - S Hamamah
- Département de biologie de la reproduction, CHU de Montpellier, université de Montpellier, 34000 Montpellier, France; Inserm 1203, développement embryonnaire précoce humain et pluripotence, université de Montpellier, 34000 Montpellier, France.
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33
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Bagga R, Arora P. Genital Micro-Organisms in Pregnancy. Front Public Health 2020; 8:225. [PMID: 32612969 PMCID: PMC7308476 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2020.00225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The microbiome of the female genital tract may undergo changes in pregnancy due to metabolic, endocrinological, and immunological alterations. These dysbiotic states may cause infections which may ascend upwards to the feto-placental unit or may be seeded hematogenously. These low grade and often low virulent infectious states lead to chronic inflammatory states and maybe associated with adverse maternal and neonatal outcome. Organisms have been isolated from amniotic fluid and placentae from women delivering pre-term; however the possibility of contamination cannot be conclusively ruled out. Common vaginal dysbiotic states often cause symptoms that are overlooked and often untreated. Vulvovaginal Candidiasis (VVC), Bacterial Vaginosis (BV), and Trichomonas Vaginitis (TV) are the commonly occurring dysbiotic states leading to vaginal infective states in pregnancy. With the advent of novel technologies like Next Generation sequencing (NGS), it will soon be possible to comprehensively map the vaginal microbiome and assess the interplay of each microbial state with their effects in pregnancy. This may open new avenues for antibiotic recommendations, probiotics and potential alternate therapies for dysbiotic states leading to pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rashmi Bagga
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Parul Arora
- Reproductive Medicine, Nova IVF Fertility, Ahmedabad, India
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Cohen CR, Wierzbicki MR, French AL, Morris S, Newmann S, Reno H, Green L, Miller S, Powell J, Parks T, Hemmerling A. Randomized Trial of Lactin-V to Prevent Recurrence of Bacterial Vaginosis. N Engl J Med 2020; 382:1906-1915. [PMID: 32402161 PMCID: PMC7362958 DOI: 10.1056/nejmoa1915254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 155] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bacterial vaginosis affects 15 to 50% of women of reproductive age, and recurrence is common after treatment with an antibiotic agent. The high incidence of recurrence suggests the need for new treatments to prevent recurrent bacterial vaginosis. METHODS We conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 2b trial to evaluate the ability of Lactobacillus crispatus CTV-05 (Lactin-V) to prevent the recurrence of bacterial vaginosis. Women 18 to 45 years of age who had received a diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis and who had completed a course of vaginal metronidazole gel as part of the eligibility requirements were randomly assigned, in a 2:1 ratio, to receive vaginally administered Lactin-V or placebo for 11 weeks; follow-up occurred through week 24. The primary outcome was the percentage of women who had a recurrence of bacterial vaginosis by week 12. RESULTS A total of 228 women underwent randomization: 152 to the Lactin-V group and 76 to the placebo group; of these participants, 88% in the Lactin-V group and 84% in the placebo group could be evaluated for the primary outcome. In the intention-to-treat population, recurrence of bacterial vaginosis by week 12 occurred in 46 participants (30%) in the Lactin-V group and in 34 participants (45%) in the placebo group (risk ratio after multiple imputation for missing responses, 0.66; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.44 to 0.87; P = 0.01). The risk ratio for recurrence by week 24 (also calculated with multiple imputation for missing responses) was 0.73 (95% CI, 0.54 to 0.92). At the 12-week visit, L. crispatus CTV-05 was detected in 79% of participants in the Lactin-V group. The percentage of participants who had at least one adverse event related to Lactin-V or placebo by week 24 did not differ significantly between the groups. The percentage of participants with local or systemic adverse events was similar in the two groups. CONCLUSIONS The use of Lactin-V after treatment with vaginal metronidazole resulted in a significantly lower incidence of recurrence of bacterial vaginosis than placebo at 12 weeks. (Funded by the National Institutes of Health; ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT02766023.).
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Affiliation(s)
- Craig R Cohen
- From the Departments of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences (C.R.C., S.N., A.H.) and Laboratory Medicine (L.G., S. Miller), University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, the Department of Family Medicine, University of California, San Diego, San Diego (S. Morris), and Osel, Mountain View (T.P.) - all in California; Emmes, Rockville, MD (M.R.W., J.P.); the Department of Medicine, Ruth M. Rothstein CORE Center and Stroger Hospital of Cook County Health, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago (A.L.F.); and the Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis (H.R.)
| | - Michael R Wierzbicki
- From the Departments of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences (C.R.C., S.N., A.H.) and Laboratory Medicine (L.G., S. Miller), University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, the Department of Family Medicine, University of California, San Diego, San Diego (S. Morris), and Osel, Mountain View (T.P.) - all in California; Emmes, Rockville, MD (M.R.W., J.P.); the Department of Medicine, Ruth M. Rothstein CORE Center and Stroger Hospital of Cook County Health, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago (A.L.F.); and the Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis (H.R.)
| | - Audrey L French
- From the Departments of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences (C.R.C., S.N., A.H.) and Laboratory Medicine (L.G., S. Miller), University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, the Department of Family Medicine, University of California, San Diego, San Diego (S. Morris), and Osel, Mountain View (T.P.) - all in California; Emmes, Rockville, MD (M.R.W., J.P.); the Department of Medicine, Ruth M. Rothstein CORE Center and Stroger Hospital of Cook County Health, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago (A.L.F.); and the Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis (H.R.)
| | - Sheldon Morris
- From the Departments of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences (C.R.C., S.N., A.H.) and Laboratory Medicine (L.G., S. Miller), University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, the Department of Family Medicine, University of California, San Diego, San Diego (S. Morris), and Osel, Mountain View (T.P.) - all in California; Emmes, Rockville, MD (M.R.W., J.P.); the Department of Medicine, Ruth M. Rothstein CORE Center and Stroger Hospital of Cook County Health, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago (A.L.F.); and the Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis (H.R.)
| | - Sara Newmann
- From the Departments of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences (C.R.C., S.N., A.H.) and Laboratory Medicine (L.G., S. Miller), University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, the Department of Family Medicine, University of California, San Diego, San Diego (S. Morris), and Osel, Mountain View (T.P.) - all in California; Emmes, Rockville, MD (M.R.W., J.P.); the Department of Medicine, Ruth M. Rothstein CORE Center and Stroger Hospital of Cook County Health, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago (A.L.F.); and the Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis (H.R.)
| | - Hilary Reno
- From the Departments of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences (C.R.C., S.N., A.H.) and Laboratory Medicine (L.G., S. Miller), University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, the Department of Family Medicine, University of California, San Diego, San Diego (S. Morris), and Osel, Mountain View (T.P.) - all in California; Emmes, Rockville, MD (M.R.W., J.P.); the Department of Medicine, Ruth M. Rothstein CORE Center and Stroger Hospital of Cook County Health, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago (A.L.F.); and the Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis (H.R.)
| | - Lauri Green
- From the Departments of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences (C.R.C., S.N., A.H.) and Laboratory Medicine (L.G., S. Miller), University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, the Department of Family Medicine, University of California, San Diego, San Diego (S. Morris), and Osel, Mountain View (T.P.) - all in California; Emmes, Rockville, MD (M.R.W., J.P.); the Department of Medicine, Ruth M. Rothstein CORE Center and Stroger Hospital of Cook County Health, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago (A.L.F.); and the Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis (H.R.)
| | - Steve Miller
- From the Departments of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences (C.R.C., S.N., A.H.) and Laboratory Medicine (L.G., S. Miller), University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, the Department of Family Medicine, University of California, San Diego, San Diego (S. Morris), and Osel, Mountain View (T.P.) - all in California; Emmes, Rockville, MD (M.R.W., J.P.); the Department of Medicine, Ruth M. Rothstein CORE Center and Stroger Hospital of Cook County Health, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago (A.L.F.); and the Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis (H.R.)
| | - Jonathan Powell
- From the Departments of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences (C.R.C., S.N., A.H.) and Laboratory Medicine (L.G., S. Miller), University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, the Department of Family Medicine, University of California, San Diego, San Diego (S. Morris), and Osel, Mountain View (T.P.) - all in California; Emmes, Rockville, MD (M.R.W., J.P.); the Department of Medicine, Ruth M. Rothstein CORE Center and Stroger Hospital of Cook County Health, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago (A.L.F.); and the Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis (H.R.)
| | - Thomas Parks
- From the Departments of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences (C.R.C., S.N., A.H.) and Laboratory Medicine (L.G., S. Miller), University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, the Department of Family Medicine, University of California, San Diego, San Diego (S. Morris), and Osel, Mountain View (T.P.) - all in California; Emmes, Rockville, MD (M.R.W., J.P.); the Department of Medicine, Ruth M. Rothstein CORE Center and Stroger Hospital of Cook County Health, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago (A.L.F.); and the Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis (H.R.)
| | - Anke Hemmerling
- From the Departments of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences (C.R.C., S.N., A.H.) and Laboratory Medicine (L.G., S. Miller), University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, the Department of Family Medicine, University of California, San Diego, San Diego (S. Morris), and Osel, Mountain View (T.P.) - all in California; Emmes, Rockville, MD (M.R.W., J.P.); the Department of Medicine, Ruth M. Rothstein CORE Center and Stroger Hospital of Cook County Health, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago (A.L.F.); and the Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis (H.R.)
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