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Luo H, Zhou C, Zhou L, He Y, Xie RH. The effectiveness of vaginal microbiota transplantation for vaginal dysbiosis and bacterial vaginosis: a scoping review. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2024:10.1007/s00404-024-07611-1. [PMID: 38914708 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-024-07611-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To comprehensively summarize the existing evidence on the effectiveness of vaginal microbiota transplantation (VMT) in treating vaginal dysbiosis (VD) and bacterial vaginosis (BV). METHODS Following the PRISMA-ScR guidelines, a scoping review was conducted through October 10, 2023, using the databases PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang, SinoMed, Weipu (VIP), ClinicalTrials.gov and the Chinese clinical trial registry. RESULTS A total of 12 studies were included, of which 7 were published (comprising 3 human and 4 animal studies), and 5 were ongoing registered trials (human). Of the published human studies involving 36 women, one focused on VD, and two investigated BV. These studies reported that VMT restored the Lactobacillus-dominated vaginal microbiota, alleviating symptoms. In animal studies with 145 female rats or mice, VMT was explored for one case of VD and three cases of BV, demonstrating a reduction in the expression of IL-1β and TNF-α. Additionally, two of the animal studies also indicated an increase in the number of Lactobacilli following VMT. The ongoing registered trials involved 556 women, with two focusing on VD and three targeting BV. CONCLUSIONS VMT shows promise in restoring the Lactobacillus-dominated vaginal microbiota among women with VD or BV. Moreover, animal studies have indicated an increase in the number of Lactobacilli and a decrease in the expression of IL-1β and TNF-α following VMT. Ongoing registered trials are expected to provide comprehensive evidence regarding the efficacy of VMT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiqin Luo
- School of Nursing, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chuhui Zhou
- School of Nursing, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lepeng Zhou
- School of Nursing, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yan He
- Microbiome Medicine Center, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ri-Hua Xie
- School of Nursing, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China.
- School of Nursing, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
- Women and Children Medical Research Center, Foshan Women and Children Hospital, 20 Huayang South Road, Shunde Distirct, Foshan, 528000, Guangdong, China.
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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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Zeng Z, Li P, Lu J, Li X, Li M, Wu Y, Zheng M, Cao Y, Liao Q, Ge Z, Zhang L. A non-antibiotic antimicrobial drug, a biological bacteriostatic agent, is useful for treating aerobic vaginitis, bacterial vaginosis, and vulvovaginal candidiasis. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1341878. [PMID: 38860217 PMCID: PMC11163058 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1341878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Vaginitis is a common infection in women, with approximately 75% of women experiencing at least one episode during their lifetime. Although antimicrobial agents are widely used to treat vaginitis, recurrent vaginitis occurs in some patients. Resistance to these agents is the major cause of recurrent vaginitis. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop novel drugs. Methods We investigated the efficacy of a new biological bacteriostatic agent (BBA), composed of lysozyme, phytoalexin, chitosan oligosaccharide, sinensetin, 18β/20α-glycyrrhizin, and betaine, against vaginitis using in vitro and in vivo studies. First, we evaluated the antibacterial effects of BBA against 13 microbial strains commonly present in aerobic vaginitis, bacterial vaginosis, vulvovaginal candidiasis, and healthy vaginas. Second, we assessed the safety of various doses of BBA administered orally for 4 weeks in female mice. Third, we examined the in vivo anti-proliferative and anti-inflammatory effects of BBA in Candida albicans-, Candida glabrata-, and Gardnerella-induced vaginitis models. Finally, we evaluated the anti-vaginitis effect of a BBA gel prepared with 0.5% (w/v) ammonium acryloyldimethyltaurate/Vp copolymer. Results BBA effectively suppressed the growth of the main causative pathogens of vaginitis in vitro. BBA, either undiluted or diluted two-fold, inhibited all microorganisms cultured for 8 h. No obvious organ damage was detected when BBA was administered to mice. Both BBA alone and 70% BBA in a gel formulation effectively inhibited the proliferation of C. albicans, C. glabrata, and Gardnerella in vaginal lavage samples and alleviated tissue inflammation in mice with vaginitis. The 70% BBA gel performed better than BBA alone at treating vaginitis in mice infected with Gardnerella vaginalis. Conclusion BBA alone and a 70% BBA gel inhibited the growth of pathogens and effectively alleviated inflammation caused by C. albicans, C. glabrata, and G. vaginalis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Zeng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Clinical Medicine, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Pei Li
- College of Life Science, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Jiayi Lu
- College of Life Science, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiaoqi Li
- College of Life Science, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Meng Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Clinical Medicine, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Yifan Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Clinical Medicine, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Minzi Zheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Clinical Medicine, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Yang Cao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Clinical Medicine, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Qinping Liao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Clinical Medicine, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhaojia Ge
- College of Life Science, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Clinical Medicine, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- Institute for Precision Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
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Brennan C, Chan K, Kumar T, Maissy E, Brubaker L, Dothard MI, Gilbert JA, Gilbert KE, Lewis AL, Thackray VG, Zarrinpar A, Knight R. Harnessing the power within: engineering the microbiome for enhanced gynecologic health. REPRODUCTION AND FERTILITY 2024; 5:e230060. [PMID: 38513356 PMCID: PMC11046331 DOI: 10.1530/raf-23-0060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Graphical abstract Abstract Although numerous studies have demonstrated the impact of microbiome manipulation on human health, research on the microbiome's influence on female health remains relatively limited despite substantial disease burden. In light of this, we present a selected review of clinical trials and preclinical studies targeting both the vaginal and gut microbiomes for the prevention or treatment of various gynecologic conditions. Specifically, we explore studies that leverage microbiota transplants, probiotics, prebiotics, diet modifications, and engineered microbial strains. A healthy vaginal microbiome for females of reproductive age consists of lactic acid-producing bacteria predominantly of the Lactobacillus genus, which serves as a protective barrier against pathogens and maintains a balanced ecosystem. The gut microbiota's production of short-chain fatty acids, metabolism of primary bile acids, and modulation of sex steroid levels have significant implications for the interplay between host and microbes throughout the body, ultimately impacting reproductive health. By harnessing interventions that modulate both the vaginal and gut microbiomes, it becomes possible to not only maintain homeostasis but also mitigate pathological conditions. While the field is still working toward making broad clinical recommendations, the current studies demonstrate that manipulating the microbiome holds great potential for addressing diverse gynecologic conditions. Lay summary Manipulating the microbiome has recently entered popular culture, with various diets thought to aid the microbes that live within us. These microbes live in different locations of our body and accordingly help us digest food, modulate our immune system, and influence reproductive health. The role of the microbes living in and influencing the female reproductive tract remains understudied despite known roles in common conditions such as vulvovaginal candidiasis (affecting 75% of females in their lifetime), bacterial vaginosis (25% of females in their lifetime), cervical HPV infection (80% of females in their lifetime), endometriosis (6-10% of females of reproductive age), and polycystic ovary syndrome (10-12% of females of reproductive age). Here, we review four different approaches used to manipulate the female reproductive tract and gastrointestinal system microbiomes: microbiota transplants, probiotics, prebiotics, and dietary interventions, and the use of engineered microbial strains. In doing so, we aim to stimulate discussion on new ways to understand and treat female reproductive health conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitriona Brennan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Kristina Chan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Tanya Kumar
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Erica Maissy
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Linda Brubaker
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Marisol I Dothard
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Jack A Gilbert
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Center for Microbiome Innovation, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Katharine E Gilbert
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Amanda L Lewis
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Varykina G Thackray
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Center for Microbiome Innovation, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Amir Zarrinpar
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Center for Microbiome Innovation, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Jennifer Moreno Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, La Jolla, California, USA
- Institute of Diabetes and Metabolic Health, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Rob Knight
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Center for Microbiome Innovation, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Halıcıoğlu Data Science Institute, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
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Yu H, Wang X, Tian R, Li X, Xu C, Fei J, Li T, Yin Z. Myometrium infection decreases TREK1 through NHE1 and increases contraction in pregnant mice. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2024; 326:C1106-C1119. [PMID: 38344766 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00598.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Intrauterine infection during pregnancy can enhance uterine contractions. A two-pore K+ channel TREK1 is crucial for maintaining uterine quiescence and reducing contractility, with its properties regulated by pH changes in cell microenvironment. Meanwhile, the sodium hydrogen exchanger 1 (NHE1) plays a pivotal role in modulating cellular pH homeostasis, and its activation increases smooth muscle tension. By establishing an infected mouse model of Escherichia coli (E. coli) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS), we used Western blotting, real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and immunofluorescence to detect changes of TREK1 and NHE1 expression in the myometrium, and isometric recording measured the uterus contraction. The NHE1 inhibitor cariporide was used to explore the effect of NHE1 on TREK1. Finally, cell contraction assay and siRNA transfection were performed to clarify the relationship between NHE1 and TREK1 in vitro. We found that the uterine contraction was notably enhanced in infected mice with E. coli and LPS administration. Meanwhile, TREK1 expression was reduced, whereas NHE1 expression was upregulated in infected mice. Cariporide alleviated the increased uterine contraction and promoted myometrium TREK1 expression in LPS-injected mice. Furthermore, suppression of NHE1 with siRNA transfection inhibited the contractility of uterine smooth muscle cells and activated the TREK1. Altogether, our findings indicate that infection increases the uterine contraction by downregulating myometrium TREK1 in mice, and the inhibition of TREK1 is attributed to the activation of NHE1.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Present work found that infection during pregnancy will increase myometrium contraction. Infection downregulated NHE1 and followed TREK1 expression and activation decrease in myometrium, resulting in increased myometrium contraction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huihui Yu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xingxing Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Ruixian Tian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xuan Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Chenyi Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Jiajia Fei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, China
| | - Tengteng Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Zongzhi Yin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
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Meng Y, Sun J, Zhang G. Vaginal microbiota transplantation is a truly opulent and promising edge: fully grasp its potential. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1280636. [PMID: 38585656 PMCID: PMC10995359 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1280636] [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: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Vaginal microbiota transplantation (VMT) is a cutting-edge treatment modality that has the potential to revolutionize the management of vaginal disorders. The human vagina is a complex and dynamic ecosystem home to a diverse community of microorganisms. These microorganisms play a crucial role in maintaining the health and well-being of the female reproductive system. However, when the balance of this ecosystem is disrupted, it can lead to the development of various vaginal disorders. Conventional treatments, such as antibiotics and antifungal medications, can temporarily relieve the symptoms of vaginal disorders. However, they often fail to address the underlying cause of the problem, which is the disruption of the vaginal microbiota. In recent years, VMT has emerged as a promising therapeutic approach that aims to restore the balance of the vaginal ecosystem. Several studies have demonstrated the safety and efficacy of VMT in treating bacterial vaginosis, recurrent yeast infections, and other vaginal conditions. The procedure has also shown promising results in reducing the risk of sexually transmitted infections and preterm birth in pregnant women. However, more research is needed to establish optimal donor selection, preparation, and screening protocols, as well as long-term safety and efficacy. VMT offers a safe, effective, and minimally invasive treatment option for women with persistent vaginal problems. It could improve the quality of life for millions of women worldwide and become a standard treatment option shortly. With further research and development, it could potentially treat a wide range of other health problems beyond the scope of vaginal disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiming Meng
- Department of Central Laboratory, Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology, Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shenyang, China
| | - Jing Sun
- Department of Biobank, Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology, Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shenyang, China
| | - Guirong Zhang
- Department of Central Laboratory, Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology, Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shenyang, China
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Huang X, Lin R, Mao B, Tang X, Zhao J, Zhang Q, Cui S. Lactobacillus crispatus CCFM1339 Inhibits Vaginal Epithelial Barrier Injury Induced by Gardnerella vaginalis in Mice. Biomolecules 2024; 14:240. [PMID: 38397477 PMCID: PMC10886512 DOI: 10.3390/biom14020240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2024] [Revised: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The vaginal epithelial barrier, which integrates mechanical, immune, chemical, and microbial defenses, is pivotal in safeguarding against external pathogens and upholding the vaginal microecological equilibrium. Although the widely used metronidazole effectively curtails Gardnerella vaginalis, a key pathogen in bacterial vaginosis, it falls short in restoring the vaginal barrier or reducing recurrence rates. Our prior research highlighted Lactobacillus crispatus CCFM1339, a vaginally derived Lactobacillus strain, for its capacity to modulate the vaginal epithelial barrier. In cellular models, L. crispatus CCFM1339 fortified the integrity of the cellular monolayer, augmented cellular migration, and facilitated repair. Remarkably, in animal models, L. crispatus CCFM1339 substantially abated the secretion of the barrier disruption biomarker E-cadherin (from 101.45 to 82.90 pg/mL) and increased the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 (35.18% vs. the model), consequently mitigating vaginal inflammation in mice. Immunological assays in vaginal tissues elucidated increased secretory IgA levels (from 405.56 to 740.62 ng/mL) and curtailed IL-17 gene expression. Moreover, L. crispatus CCFM1339 enhanced Lactobacilli abundance and attenuated Enterobacterium and Enterococcus within the vaginal microbiome, underscoring its potential in probiotic applications for vaginal barrier regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; (X.H.); (R.L.); (B.M.); (X.T.); (J.Z.)
| | - Rumeng Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; (X.H.); (R.L.); (B.M.); (X.T.); (J.Z.)
| | - Bingyong Mao
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; (X.H.); (R.L.); (B.M.); (X.T.); (J.Z.)
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Xin Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; (X.H.); (R.L.); (B.M.); (X.T.); (J.Z.)
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Jianxin Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; (X.H.); (R.L.); (B.M.); (X.T.); (J.Z.)
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Qiuxiang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; (X.H.); (R.L.); (B.M.); (X.T.); (J.Z.)
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Shumao Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; (X.H.); (R.L.); (B.M.); (X.T.); (J.Z.)
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
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Ottinger S, Robertson CM, Branthoover H, Patras KA. The human vaginal microbiota: from clinical medicine to models to mechanisms. Curr Opin Microbiol 2024; 77:102422. [PMID: 38215548 PMCID: PMC11160953 DOI: 10.1016/j.mib.2023.102422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Abstract
The composition of the vaginal microbiota is linked to numerous reproductive health problems, including increased susceptibility to infection, pregnancy complications, and impaired vaginal tissue repair; however, the mechanisms contributing to these adverse outcomes are not yet fully defined. In this review, we highlight recent clinical advancements associating vaginal microbiome composition and function with health outcomes. Subsequently, we provide a summary of emerging models employed to identify microbe-microbe interactions contributing to vaginal health, including metagenomic sequencing, multi-omics approaches, and advances in vaginal microbiota cultivation. Last, we review new in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo models, such as organoids and humanized microbiota murine models, used to define and mechanistically explore host-microbe interactions at the vaginal mucosa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Ottinger
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Clare M Robertson
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Holly Branthoover
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Kathryn A Patras
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Alkek Center for Metagenomics and Microbiome Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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