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Nelson SG, Liu CM. Penile microbiome: decoding its impact on HIV risk. Curr Opin HIV AIDS 2024; 19:241-245. [PMID: 38935058 PMCID: PMC11305963 DOI: 10.1097/coh.0000000000000865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The penile microbiome has been linked to local inflammation and increased risk for sexually transmitted infections, including HIV. This review explores recent studies of this emerging area of HIV research. RECENT FINDINGS The male urogenital tract supports multiple distinct niches, where their associated microbiome are shaped by abiotic (e.g., oxygen, moisture) and biotic (e.g., host immunity) environmental factors and host behaviors, particularly sexual activity. In addition, male circumcision is a significant drivers of male genital microbiome in both children and adults. Recent sexual partner studies provide new insight into the exchange of genital bacteria and concurrent local immune changes that may impact HIV risk. SUMMARY The male genital microbiome is shaped by the local microenvironment and host behaviors including sexual activity. Improving our understanding of the connection between the male genital microbiome, local inflammation, and HIV susceptibility, as well as how pro-inflammatory genital bacteria are transmitted between sexual partners may inform new strategies to prevent HIV transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sydney G Nelson
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
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2
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Mitchell CM. Assessment and Treatment of Vaginitis. Obstet Gynecol 2024:00006250-990000000-01111. [PMID: 38991218 DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000005673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
Vaginitis is the presenting symptom at millions of office visits each year in the United States. Although treatment of sporadic cases is often straightforward, recurrent cases present both diagnostic and treatment challenges. Molecular diagnostic tests are likely superior to in-office microscopy for most clinicians and most cases. In both recurrent bacterial vaginosis and recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis, national treatment guidelines recommend an extended treatment duration with one of the first-line agents. In cases in which such treatment is not successful, vaginal boric acid is likely the cheapest and easiest alternative option. New antifungal medications offer additional but limited treatment options. Probiotics are not recommended for prevention of vulvovaginal candidiasis; however, vaginal products containing Lactobacillus crispatus may have promise for recurrent bacterial vaginosis. Trichomoniasis should be treated with a 1-week course of metronidazole; this is the only sexually transmitted infection for which treatment recommendations vary by sex. In cases in which patients do not respond to initial treatment, the diagnosis should be reconsidered, and other potential causes such as desquamative inflammatory vaginitis, genitourinary syndrome of menopause, or vulvodynia should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline M Mitchell
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Harvard Medical School, and the Vulvovaginal Disorders Program, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
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Salazar JE, Park DE, Punjani N, Pham T, Aziz M, Kigozi G, Gray RH, Kiboneka SD, Goldstein M, Li PS, Lee R, Liu CM. Comparison of the penile microbiome in infant male circumcision: Mogen clamp versus Shangring. EBioMedicine 2024; 105:105216. [PMID: 38924841 PMCID: PMC11259695 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2024.105216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to characterise the infant penile (coronal sulcus) microbiome and the effects of early infant male circumcision (EIMC), following a standard surgical method (Mogen Clamp) and a non-surgical alternative (ShangRing). METHODS We collected coronal sulcus swabs at baseline and on days 7 and 14 post-circumcision from infants assigned to receive EIMC by Mogen Clamp (n = 15) or ShangRing (n = 15), in a randomised trial in Rakai and Kakuuto, Uganda. We used 16S rRNA gene-based sequencing and broad-coverage qPCR to characterise the infant penile microbiome and assess the effects of EIMC in both study arms. FINDINGS Prior to EIMC, the infant penile microbiome had a mixture of facultative and strict anaerobes. In both study arms, EIMC caused penile microbiome proportional abundance changes characterised by decreases in penile anaerobes [ShangRing Prevotella: -15.0%, (SD = 19.1); Mogen clamp Prevotella: -3.6% (11.2); ShangRing Veillonella: -11.3% (17.2); Mogen clamp Veillonella: -2.6% (11.8)] and increases in skin-associated facultative anaerobes [ShangRing Corynebacterium: 24.9%, (22.4); Mogen clamp Corynebacterium: 4.7% (21.3); ShangRing Staphylococcus: 21.1% (20.5); Mogen clamp Staphylococcus: 18.1% (20.1)]. Clostridium tetani was not detected during the study. INTERPRETATION Mogen Clamp and ShangRing EIMC both changed the composition of the infant penile microbiome by reducing the proportional abundances of anaerobes and uropathogens, which is consistent with medical male circumcision findings in adults. C. tetani was not increased by either EIMC method. FUNDING Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan E Salazar
- Antibiotic Resistance Action Center, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, 20052, USA
| | - Daniel E Park
- Antibiotic Resistance Action Center, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, 20052, USA
| | - Nahid Punjani
- Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medicine of Cornell University, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY, USA; Department of Urology, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Tony Pham
- Antibiotic Resistance Action Center, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, 20052, USA
| | - Maliha Aziz
- Antibiotic Resistance Action Center, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, 20052, USA
| | - Godfrey Kigozi
- Rakai Health Sciences Program, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Ronald H Gray
- Rakai Health Sciences Program, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda; Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA
| | - Stephen D Kiboneka
- Rakai Health Sciences Program, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Marc Goldstein
- Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medicine of Cornell University, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY, USA
| | - Philip S Li
- Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medicine of Cornell University, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY, USA
| | - Richard Lee
- Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medicine of Cornell University, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY, USA
| | - Cindy M Liu
- Antibiotic Resistance Action Center, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, 20052, USA.
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Duarte G, Linhares IM, Kreitchmann R, Tristão ADR, Traina E, Canti I, Takimura M, Andrade JQ. Vulvovaginitis in pregnant women. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE GINECOLOGIA E OBSTETRÍCIA 2024; 46:e-FPS03. [PMID: 38765512 PMCID: PMC11075393 DOI: 10.61622/rbgo/2024fps03] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
• The balanced vaginal microbiome is the main factor defending the vaginal environment against infections. Lactobacilli play a key role in this regard, maintaining the vaginal pH within the normal range (3.8 to 4.5). •Hormonal and immune adaptations resulting from pregnancy influence changes in the vaginal microbiome during pregnancy. •An altered vaginal microbiome predisposes to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. •Bacterial vaginosis is the main clinical expression of an imbalanced vaginal microbiome. •Vulvovaginal candidiasis depends more on the host's conditions than on the etiological agent. •Trichomonas vaginalis is a protozoan transmitted during sexual intercourse. •The use of probiotics is not approved for use in pregnant women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geraldo Duarte
- Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto Universidade de São Paulo Ribeirão PretoSP Brazil Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Iara Moreno Linhares
- Faculdade de Medicina Universidade de São Paulo São PauloSP Brazil Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Regis Kreitchmann
- Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre Porto AlegreRS Brazil Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Andréa da Rocha Tristão
- Faculdade de Medicina de Botucatu Universidade Estadual Paulista BotucatuSP Brazil Faculdade de Medicina de Botucatu, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Evelyn Traina
- Escola Paulista de Medicina Universidade Federal de São Paulo São PauloSP Brazil Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Ivete Canti
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul Porto AlegreRS Brazil Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Marcos Takimura
- Universidade Positivo CuritibaPR Brazil Universidade Positivo, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Joelma Queiroz Andrade
- Faculdade de Medicina Universidade de São Paulo São PauloSP Brazil Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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Carter KA, France MT, Rutt L, Bilski L, Martinez-Greiwe S, Regan M, Brotman RM, Ravel J. Sexual transmission of urogenital bacteria: whole metagenome sequencing evidence from a sexual network study. mSphere 2024; 9:e0003024. [PMID: 38358269 PMCID: PMC10964427 DOI: 10.1128/msphere.00030-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Sexual transmission of the urogenital microbiota may contribute to adverse sexual and reproductive health outcomes. The extent of sexual transmission of the urogenital microbiota is unclear as prior studies largely investigated specific pathogens. We used epidemiologic data and whole metagenome sequencing to characterize urogenital microbiota strain concordance between participants of a sexual network study. Individuals who screened positive for genital Chlamydia trachomatis were enrolled and referred their sexual contacts from the prior 60-180 days. Snowball recruitment of sexual contacts continued for up to four waves. Vaginal swabs and penile urethral swabs were collected for whole metagenome sequencing. We evaluated bacterial strain concordance using inStrain and network analysis. We defined concordance as ≥99.99% average nucleotide identity over ≥50% shared coverage; we defined putative sexual transmission as concordance between sexual contacts with <5 single-nucleotide polymorphisms per megabase. Of 138 participants, 74 (54%) were female; 120 (87%) had genital chlamydia; and 43 (31%) were recruited contacts. We identified 115 strain-concordance events among 54 participants representing 25 bacterial species. Seven events (6%) were between sexual contacts including putative heterosexual transmission of Fannyhessea vaginae, Gardnerella leopoldii, Prevotella amnii, Sneathia sanguinegens, and Sneathia vaginalis (one strain each), and putative sexual transmission of Lactobacillus iners between female contacts. Most concordance events (108, 94%) were between non-contacts, including eight female participants connected through 18 Lactobacillus crispatus and 3 Lactobacillus jensenii concordant strains, and 14 female and 2 male participants densely interconnected through 52 Gardnerella swidsinskii concordance events.IMPORTANCEEpidemiologic evidence consistently indicates bacterial vaginosis (BV) is sexually associated and may be sexually transmitted, though sexual transmission remains subject to debate. This study is not capable of demonstrating BV sexual transmission; however, we do provide strain-level metagenomic evidence that strongly supports heterosexual transmission of BV-associated species. These findings strengthen the evidence base that supports ongoing investigations of concurrent male partner treatment for reducing BV recurrence. Our data suggest that measuring the impact of male partner treatment on F. vaginae, G. leopoldii, P. amnii, S. sanguinegens, and S. vaginalis may provide insight into why a regimen does or does not perform well. We also observed a high degree of strain concordance between non-sexual-contact female participants. We posit that this may reflect limited dispersal capacity of vaginal bacteria coupled with individuals' comembership in regional transmission networks where transmission may occur between parent and child at birth, cohabiting individuals, or sexual contacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayla A. Carter
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Michael T. France
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Lindsay Rutt
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Lisa Bilski
- School of Nursing, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Mary Regan
- School of Nursing, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Rebecca M. Brotman
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Jacques Ravel
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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6
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Jendraszak M, Skibińska I, Kotwicka M, Andrusiewicz M. The elusive male microbiome: revealing the link between the genital microbiota and fertility. Critical review and future perspectives. Crit Rev Clin Lab Sci 2024:1-29. [PMID: 38523477 DOI: 10.1080/10408363.2024.2331489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
There is a growing focus on understanding the role of the male microbiome in fertility issues. Although research on the bacterial communities within the male reproductive system is in its initial phases, recent discoveries highlight notable variations in the microbiome's composition and abundance across distinct anatomical regions like the skin, foreskin, urethra, and coronary sulcus. To assess the relationship between male genitourinary microbiome and reproduction, we queried various databases, including MEDLINE (available via PubMed), SCOPUS, and Web of Science to obtain evidence-based data. The literature search was conducted using the following terms "gut/intestines microbiome," "genitourinary system microbiome," "microbiome and female/male infertility," "external genital tract microbiome," "internal genital tract microbiome," and "semen microbiome." Fifty-one relevant papers were analyzed, and eleven were strictly semen quality or male fertility related. The male microbiome, especially in the accessory glands like the prostate, seminal vesicles, and bulbourethral glands, has garnered significant interest because of its potential link to male fertility and reproduction. Studies have also found differences in bacterial diversity present in the testicular tissue of normozoospermic men compared to azoospermic suggesting a possible role of bacterial dysbiosis and reproduction. Correlation between the bacterial taxa in the genital microbiota of sexual partners has also been found, and sexual activity can influence the composition of the urogenital microbiota. Exploring the microbial world within the male reproductive system and its influence on fertility opens doors to developing ways to prevent, diagnose, and treat infertility. The present work emphasizes the importance of using consistent methods, conducting long-term studies, and deepening our understanding of how the reproductive tract microbiome works. This helps make research comparable, pinpoint potential interventions, and smoothly apply microbiome insights to real-world clinical practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Jendraszak
- Chair and Department of Cell Biology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Izabela Skibińska
- Chair and Department of Cell Biology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Kotwicka
- Chair and Department of Cell Biology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Mirosław Andrusiewicz
- Chair and Department of Cell Biology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
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7
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Nori SRC, McGuire TK, Lawton EM, McAuliffe FM, Sinderen DV, Walsh CJ, Cotter PD, Feehily C. Profiling of vaginal Lactobacillus jensenii isolated from preterm and full-term pregnancies reveals strain-specific factors relating to host interaction. Microb Genom 2023; 9. [PMID: 38010361 DOI: 10.1099/mgen.0.001137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Each year, 15 million infants are born preterm (<37 weeks gestation), representing the leading cause of mortality for children under the age of five. Whilst there is no single cause, factors such as maternal genetics, environmental interactions, and the vaginal microbiome have been associated with an increased risk of preterm birth. Previous studies show that a vaginal microbiota dominated by Lactobacillus is, in contrast to communities containing a mixture of genera, associated with full-term birth. However, this binary principle does not fully consider more nuanced interactions between bacterial strains and the host. Here, through a combination of analyses involving genome-sequenced isolates and strain-resolved metagenomics, we identify that L. jensenii strains from preterm pregnancies are phylogenetically distinct from strains from full-term pregnancies. Detailed analysis reveals several genetic signatures that distinguish preterm birth strains, including genes predicted to be involved in cell wall synthesis, and lactate and acetate metabolism. Notably, we identify a distinct gene cluster involved in cell surface protein synthesis in our preterm strains, and profiling the prevalence of this gene cluster in publicly available genomes revealed it to be predominantly present in the preterm-associated clade. This study contributes to the ongoing search for molecular biomarkers linked to preterm birth and opens up new avenues for exploring strain-level variations and mechanisms that may contribute to preterm birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sai Ravi Chandra Nori
- Teagasc Food Research Centre, Fermoy, Co. Cork, Ireland
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- School of Microbiology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- SFI Centre for Research Training in Genomics Data Science, School of Mathematics, Statistics & Applied Mathematics, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | | | | | - Fionnuala M McAuliffe
- UCD Perinatal Research Centre, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, National Maternity Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Douwe Van Sinderen
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- School of Microbiology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Calum J Walsh
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection & Immunity, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Paul D Cotter
- Teagasc Food Research Centre, Fermoy, Co. Cork, Ireland
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- School of Microbiology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Conor Feehily
- Teagasc Food Research Centre, Fermoy, Co. Cork, Ireland
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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8
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Maust BS, Petkov S, Herrera C, Feng C, Brown BP, Lebina L, Opoka D, Ssemata A, Pillay N, Serwanga J, Seatlholo P, Namubiru P, Odoch G, Mugaba S, Seiphetlo T, Gray CM, Kaleebu P, Webb EL, Martinson N, Chiodi F, Fox J, Jaspan HB. Bacterial microbiome and host inflammatory gene expression in foreskin tissue. Heliyon 2023; 9:e22145. [PMID: 38053902 PMCID: PMC10694185 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e22145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The penile epithelial microbiome remains underexplored. We sequenced human RNA and a segment of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene from the foreskin tissue of 144 adolescents from South Africa and Uganda collected during penile circumcision after receipt of 1-2 doses of placebo, emtricitabine + tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, or emtricitabine + tenofovir alafenamide to investigate the microbiome of foreskin tissue and its potential changes with antiretroviral use. We identified a large number of anaerobic species, including Corynebacterium acnes, which was detected more frequently in participants from South Africa than Uganda. Bacterial populations did not differ by treatment received, and no differentially abundant taxa were identified between placebo versus active drug recipients. The relative abundance of specific bacterial taxa was negatively correlated with expression of genes downstream of the innate immune response to bacteria and regulation of inflammation. Our results show no difference in the tissue microbiome of the foreskin with short-course antiretroviral use but that bacterial taxa were largely inversely correlated with inflammatory gene expression, consistent with commensal colonization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon S. Maust
- Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA
- Division of Infectious Disease, Dept of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Stefan Petkov
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, 171 77, Sweden
| | - Carolina Herrera
- Department of Infectious Disease, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, W2 1PG, UK
| | - Colin Feng
- Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA
| | - Bryan P. Brown
- Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA
- Division of Infectious Disease, Dept of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Limakatso Lebina
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2000, South Africa
| | - Daniel Opoka
- Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Andrew Ssemata
- Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Natasha Pillay
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2000, South Africa
| | - Jennifer Serwanga
- Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Portia Seatlholo
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2000, South Africa
| | - Patricia Namubiru
- Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Geoffrey Odoch
- Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Susan Mugaba
- Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Thabiso Seiphetlo
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
| | - Clive M. Gray
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, 7602, South Africa
| | - Pontiano Kaleebu
- Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Emily L. Webb
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Neil Martinson
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2000, South Africa
| | - Francesca Chiodi
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, 171 77, Sweden
| | - Julie Fox
- Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, School of Immunology & Microbial Sciences, Kings College, London, WC2R 2LS, UK
| | - Heather B. Jaspan
- Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA
- Division of Infectious Disease, Dept of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
| | - CHAPS team
- Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA
- Division of Infectious Disease, Dept of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, 171 77, Sweden
- Department of Infectious Disease, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, W2 1PG, UK
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2000, South Africa
- Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, 7602, South Africa
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
- Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, School of Immunology & Microbial Sciences, Kings College, London, WC2R 2LS, UK
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9
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Abou Chacra L, Ly C, Hammoud A, Iwaza R, Mediannikov O, Bretelle F, Fenollar F. Relationship between Bacterial Vaginosis and Sexually Transmitted Infections: Coincidence, Consequence or Co-Transmission? Microorganisms 2023; 11:2470. [PMID: 37894128 PMCID: PMC10609101 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11102470] [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: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a serious global problem, causing disease, suffering, and death. Although bacterial vaginosis (BV) is not considered to be an STI, it may be associated with an increased risk of contracting a wide range of STIs. We sought to assess the link between the different microorganisms involved in STIs and BV. A total of 290 vaginal swabs from 290 women sent for diagnostic purposes to the clinical microbiology laboratory of the Marseille University Public Hospitals were tested by specific qPCR targeting STI-causing microorganisms and BV. Of these 290 swabs, 15.2% (44/290) were diagnosed with at least one STI-causing microorganism and 17.2% (50/290) with BV. The prevalence of STIs was significantly higher in women with BV (28%, 14/50) than in those without (20.4%, 51/240). The prevalence of co-infections involving two STI-causing microorganisms was significantly more frequent in women with BV than in those without (18% [8/50] vs. 2% [5/250]; p < 0.001). The prevalence of monoinfections and polyinfections with STI-causing microorganisms was lower in women without BV than in those with (8.8% [21/240] vs. 28% [14/50]), p < 0.001 and 2% (5/240) vs. 8% (4/50), p = 0.05, respectively). Our data suggest that a correlation between BV and STI may exist, with a higher prevalence of both monoinfections and polyinfections involving STI-causing microorganisms in women with BV. Further research is needed to better understand BV and its links to STIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Abou Chacra
- Campus Santé Timone, Aix-Marseille University, IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, 13005 Marseille, France; (L.A.C.); (C.L.)
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, 13005 Marseille, France (R.I.); (O.M.)
| | - Claudia Ly
- Campus Santé Timone, Aix-Marseille University, IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, 13005 Marseille, France; (L.A.C.); (C.L.)
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, 13005 Marseille, France (R.I.); (O.M.)
| | - Alissa Hammoud
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, 13005 Marseille, France (R.I.); (O.M.)
- Campus Santé Timone, Aix-Marseille University, IRD, AP-HM, MEPHI, 13005 Marseille, France;
| | - Rim Iwaza
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, 13005 Marseille, France (R.I.); (O.M.)
- Campus Santé Timone, Aix-Marseille University, IRD, AP-HM, MEPHI, 13005 Marseille, France;
| | - Oleg Mediannikov
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, 13005 Marseille, France (R.I.); (O.M.)
- Campus Santé Timone, Aix-Marseille University, IRD, AP-HM, MEPHI, 13005 Marseille, France;
| | - Florence Bretelle
- Campus Santé Timone, Aix-Marseille University, IRD, AP-HM, MEPHI, 13005 Marseille, France;
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Gynépole, La Conception, AP-HM, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Florence Fenollar
- Campus Santé Timone, Aix-Marseille University, IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, 13005 Marseille, France; (L.A.C.); (C.L.)
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, 13005 Marseille, France (R.I.); (O.M.)
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10
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Plummer EL, Sfameni AM, Vodstrcil LA, Danielewski JA, Murray GL, Fehler G, Fairley CK, Garland SM, Chow EPF, Hocking JS, Bradshaw CS. Prevotella and Gardnerella Are Associated With Treatment Failure Following First-line Antibiotics for Bacterial Vaginosis. J Infect Dis 2023; 228:646-656. [PMID: 37427495 PMCID: PMC10469350 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiad261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common vaginal dysbiosis that often recurs following first-line antibiotics. We investigated if vaginal microbiota composition was associated with BV recurrence. METHODS We analyzed samples and data from 121 women who participated in 3 published trials evaluating novel interventions for improving BV cure, including concurrent antibiotic treatment of regular sexual partners (RSPs). Women diagnosed with BV received first-line antibiotics and self-collected vaginal swabs pretreatment and the day after finishing antibiotics (immediately posttreatment). 16S rRNA gene sequencing was performed on vaginal samples. Logistic regression explored associations between BV recurrence and features of the vaginal microbiota pre- and posttreatment. RESULTS Sixteen women (13% [95% confidence interval {CI}, 8%-21%]) experienced BV recurrence within 1 month of treatment. Women with an untreated RSP were more likely to experience recurrence than women with no RSP (P = .008) or an RSP who received treatment (P = .011). A higher abundance of Prevotella pretreatment (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 1.35 [95% CI, 1.05-1.91]) and Gardnerella immediately posttreatment (AOR, 1.23 [95% CI, 1.03-1.49]) were associated with increased odds of BV recurrence. CONCLUSIONS Having specific Prevotella spp prior to recommended treatment and persistence of Gardnerella immediately posttreatment may contribute to the high rates of BV recurrence. Interventions that target these taxa are likely required to achieve sustained BV cure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica L Plummer
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Hospital, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Amelia M Sfameni
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Hospital, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lenka A Vodstrcil
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Hospital, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jennifer A Danielewski
- Molecular Microbiology, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Women's Centre for Infectious Diseases, The Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Gerald L Murray
- Molecular Microbiology, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Women's Centre for Infectious Diseases, The Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Glenda Fehler
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Hospital, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Christopher K Fairley
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Hospital, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Suzanne M Garland
- Molecular Microbiology, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Women's Centre for Infectious Diseases, The Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Eric P F Chow
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Hospital, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jane S Hocking
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Catriona S Bradshaw
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Hospital, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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11
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Zuber A, Peric A, Pluchino N, Baud D, Stojanov M. Human Male Genital Tract Microbiota. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24086939. [PMID: 37108103 PMCID: PMC10139050 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24086939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The human body is vastly colonised by microorganisms, whose impact on health is increasingly recognised. The human genital tract hosts a diverse microbiota, and an increasing number of studies on the male genital tract microbiota suggest that bacteria have a role in male infertility and pathological conditions, such as prostate cancer. Nevertheless, this research field remains understudied. The study of bacterial colonisation of the male genital tract is highly impacted by the invasive nature of sampling and the low abundance of the microbiota. Therefore, most studies relied on the analysis of semen microbiota to describe the colonisation of the male genital tract (MGT), which was thought to be sterile. The aim of this narrative review is to present the results of studies that used next-generation sequencing (NGS) to profile the bacterial colonisation patterns of different male genital tract anatomical compartments and critically highlight their findings and their weaknesses. Moreover, we identified potential research axes that may be crucial for our understanding of the male genital tract microbiota and its impact on male infertility and pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnaud Zuber
- Materno-fetal and Obstetrics Research Unit, Department Woman-Mother-Child, Lausanne University Hospital, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Adriana Peric
- 360° Fertility Center Zurich, 8702 Zollikon, Switzerland
| | - Nicola Pluchino
- Fertility Medicine and Gynaecological Endocrinology Unit, Department Woman-Mother-Child, Lausanne University Hospital, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - David Baud
- Materno-fetal and Obstetrics Research Unit, Department Woman-Mother-Child, Lausanne University Hospital, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Milos Stojanov
- Materno-fetal and Obstetrics Research Unit, Department Woman-Mother-Child, Lausanne University Hospital, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
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12
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Toh E, Xing Y, Gao X, Jordan SJ, Batteiger TA, Batteiger BE, Van Der Pol B, Muzny CA, Gebregziabher N, Williams JA, Fortenberry LJ, Fortenberry JD, Dong Q, Nelson DE. Sexual behavior shapes male genitourinary microbiome composition. Cell Rep Med 2023; 4:100981. [PMID: 36948151 PMCID: PMC10040456 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2023.100981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
The origin, composition, and significance of the distal male urethral microbiome are unclear, but vaginal microbiome dysbiosis is linked to new sex partners and several urogynecological syndromes. We characterized 110 urethral specimens from men without urethral symptoms, infections, or inflammation using shotgun metagenomics. Most urethral specimens contain characteristic lactic acid bacteria and Corynebacterium spp. In contrast, several bacteria associated with vaginal dysbiosis were present only in specimens from men who reported vaginal intercourse. Sexual behavior, but not other evaluated behavioral, demographic, or clinical variables, strongly associated with inter-specimen variance in urethral microbiome composition. Thus, the male urethra supports a simple core microbiome that is established independent of sexual exposures but can be re-shaped by vaginal sex. Overall, the results suggest that urogenital microbiology and sexual behavior are inexorably intertwined, and show that the male urethra harbors female urogenital pathobionts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn Toh
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Yue Xing
- Department of Medicine, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL, USA
| | - Xiang Gao
- Department of Medicine, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL, USA
| | - Stephen J Jordan
- Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA; Division of Infectious Diseases, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Teresa A Batteiger
- Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA; Division of Infectious Diseases, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Byron E Batteiger
- Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA; Division of Infectious Diseases, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Barbara Van Der Pol
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Christina A Muzny
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Netsanet Gebregziabher
- Department of Biostatistics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - James A Williams
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Lora J Fortenberry
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - J Dennis Fortenberry
- Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Qunfeng Dong
- Department of Medicine, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL, USA; Center for Biomedical Informatics, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL, USA.
| | - David E Nelson
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA; Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
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13
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An Integrative Review of the Relationship Between Intrauterine Devices and Bacterial Vaginosis. Nurs Womens Health 2023; 27:141-151. [PMID: 36803608 DOI: 10.1016/j.nwh.2023.01.007] [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: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the relationship between intrauterine devices (IUDs) and bacterial vaginosis (BV) through an integrative review of the current literature. DATA SOURCES CINAHL, MEDLINE, Health Source, Evidence-Based Medicine's Cochrane Central Registry of Controlled Trials, Embase, and Web of Science databases were searched. STUDY SELECTION Cross-sectional, case-control, cohort, quasi-experimental, and randomized controlled trials examining copper (Cu-IUD) and levonorgestrel (LNG-IUD) use in reproductive- age users with BV occurrence confirmed with Amsel's criteria or Nugent scoring were included. Articles included were published in the past 10 years. DATA EXTRACTION Fifteen studies met criteria, after an initial search identified 1,140 potential titles, and two reviewers assessed 62 full-text articles for inclusion. DATA SYNTHESIS Data were categorized into three groups: retrospective descriptive cross-sectional studies identifying point prevalence of BV among IUD users; prospective analytic studies examining BV incidence and prevalence among Cu-IUD users; and prospective analytic studies examining BV incidence and prevalence among LNG-IUD users. CONCLUSION Synthesis and comparison of studies were difficult because of disparate study designs, sample sizes, comparator groups, and inclusion criteria for individual studies. Synthesis of data from cross-sectional studies showed that all IUD users combined may have an increased point prevalence of BV compared with non-IUD users. These studies did not delineate LNG-IUDs from Cu-IUDs. Findings from cohort and experimental studies suggest a possible increase in BV occurrence among Cu-IUD users. Evidence is lacking to show an association between LNG-IUD use and BV.
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14
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Waltmann A, Thomas C, Duncan JA. The role of the genital microbiota in the acquisition and pathogenesis of sexually transmitted infections. Curr Opin Infect Dis 2023; 36:35-48. [PMID: 36729748 PMCID: PMC10500551 DOI: 10.1097/qco.0000000000000893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW There are an estimated 374 million new sexually transmitted infections (STIs) worldwide every year. Our review article examines the current evidence of how STI acquisition, transmission, and pathogenesis is impacted upon by the genital microbiota, with a focus on epidemiological, biochemical, and immunological features. RECENT FINDINGS At least in women, a genital microbiota dominated by lactobacilli has long been considered optimal for reproductive health, while depletion of lactobacilli may lead to a genital microenvironment dominated by anaerobic pathogens, which can manifest clinically as bacterial vaginosis. Recent research efforts have characterized genital microbiota composition in greater resolution, sometimes at species-level, using proteomics, metabolomics, and deep sequencing. This has enhanced our understanding of how specific microbiota members influence acquisition or clinical manifestation of STI pathogen infection. Other advances include a steady, though still slow, increase in the number of studies that sought to determine the genital (penile or urethral) microbiota of males and how it may impact that of their female partners' genital microbiota and risk of STI acquisition. Altogether, these data enabled us to explore the concept that genital microbiota may be sexually transmitted and influence pathogenesis and clinical presentation of other STI. SUMMARY With STI infection rates increasing worldwide, it is important now more than ever to find novel STI prevention strategies. Understanding if and how the genital microbiota is a modifiable risk factor for STI transmission, acquisition, and clinical manifestation may prove to be an important strategy in our efforts to curb morbidity in at risk populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreea Waltmann
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- Institute for Global Health & Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Cynthia Thomas
- Graduate Program, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Joseph A Duncan
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- Institute for Global Health & Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
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15
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The Vaginal Microbiome in Health and Disease-What Role Do Common Intimate Hygiene Practices Play? Microorganisms 2023; 11:microorganisms11020298. [PMID: 36838262 PMCID: PMC9959050 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11020298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The vaginal microbiome is a dynamic, sensitive microenvironment. The hallmark of a 'healthy' vaginal microbiome is currently believed to be one dominated by Lactobacillus spp., which acidifies the vaginal environment and help to protect against invading pathogens. However, a 'normal' microbiome is often difficult, if not impossible, to characterise given that it varies in response to numerous variables, including pregnancy, the menstrual cycle, contraceptive use, diet, ethnicity, and stress. A Lactobacillus-depleted microbiome has been linked to a variety of adverse vaginal health outcomes, including preterm birth (PTB), bacterial vaginosis (BV), and increased risk of sexually transmitted infections. The latter two of these have also been associated with feminine intimate hygiene practices, many of which are practised without any evidence of health benefits. The most extensively studied practice is vaginal douching, which is known to cause vaginal dysbiosis, predisposing women to BV, pelvic inflammatory disease, and PTB. However, little is known of the impact that intimate hygiene practices and associated products have on the vaginal microbiome. This review aims to outline the major factors influencing the vaginal microbiome and common vaginal infections, as well as to summarise current research surrounding the impact of hygiene products and practices on the vaginal microbiome.
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16
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Vemuri R, Herath MP. Beyond the Gut, Emerging Microbiome Areas of Research: A Focus on Early-Life Microbial Colonization. Microorganisms 2023; 11:microorganisms11020239. [PMID: 36838204 PMCID: PMC9962807 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11020239] [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: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Undoubtedly, the human body harbors trillions of microbes of different kinds performing various physiological activities, such as priming the immune system, influencing host metabolism, and improving health by providing important metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids. Although the gut is considered the "microbial organ" of our body as it hosts the most microbes, there are microbes present in various other important anatomical locations differing in numbers and type. Research has shown the presence of microbes in utero, sparking a debate on the "sterile womb" concept, and there is much scope for more work in this area. It is important to understand the early-life microbiome colonization, which has a role in the developmental origins of health and disease in later life. Moreover, seminal studies have indicated the presence of microbes beyond the gut, for example, in the adipose tissue and the liver. However, it is still unclear what is the exact source of these microbes and their exact roles in health and disease. In this review, we appraise and discuss emerging microbiome areas of research and their roles in metabolic health. Further, we review the importance of the genital microbiome in early-life microbial interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ravichandra Vemuri
- Department of Pathology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC 27101, USA
- Correspondence: (R.V.); (M.P.H.)
| | - Manoja P. Herath
- School of Health Sciences, University of Tasmania, Launceston, TAS 7248, Australia
- Correspondence: (R.V.); (M.P.H.)
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17
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Mehta SD. The Effects of Medical Male Circumcision on Female Partners' Sexual and Reproductive Health. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2022; 19:501-507. [PMID: 36367636 PMCID: PMC9759499 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-022-00638-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC) reduces the risk of HIV acquisition by 60% among heterosexual men, provides protection against certain sexually transmitted infections (STI), and leads to penile microbiome composition changes associated with reduced risk of HIV infection. Intuitively, the benefits of VMMC for female sex partners in relation to STI are likely and have been evaluated. The purpose of this review is to examine emerging findings of broader sexual and reproductive health (SRH) benefits of VMMC for female sex partners. RECENT FINDINGS Systematic reviews find strong evidence for beneficial effects of VMMC on female sex partners risk of HPV, cervical dysplasia, cervical cancer, and with likely protection against trichomoniasis and certain genital ulcerative infections. Few studies assess the direct impact of VMMC on the vaginal microbiome (VMB), though several studies demonstrate reductions in BV, which is mediated by the VMB. Studies are lacking regarding male circumcision status and outcomes associated with non-optimal VMB, such as female infertility and adverse pregnancy outcomes. VMMC has positive effects on women's perceptions of sexual function and satisfaction, and perceptions of disease risk and hygiene, without evidence of risk compensation. VMMC has consistent association with a broad range of women's SRH outcomes, highlighting the biological and non-biological interdependencies within sexual relationships, and need for couples-level approaches to optimize SRH for men and women. The paucity of information on VMMC and influence on VMB is a barrier to optimizing VMB-associated SRH outcomes in female partners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Supriya D Mehta
- Division of Infectious Disease Medicine, Rush University College of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.
- Division of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of Illinois Chicago School of Public Health, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA.
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18
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France MT, Brown SE, Rompalo AM, Brotman RM, Ravel J. Identification of shared bacterial strains in the vaginal microbiota of related and unrelated reproductive-age mothers and daughters using genome-resolved metagenomics. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0275908. [PMID: 36288274 PMCID: PMC9604009 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0275908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been suggested that the human microbiome might be vertically transmitted from mother to offspring and that early colonizers may play a critical role in development of the immune system. Studies have shown limited support for the vertical transmission of the intestinal microbiota but the derivation of the vaginal microbiota remains largely unknown. Although the vaginal microbiota of children and reproductive age women differ in composition, the vaginal microbiota could be vertically transmitted. To determine whether there was any support for this hypothesis, we examined the vaginal microbiota of daughter-mother pairs from the Baltimore metropolitan area (ages 14-27, 32-51; n = 39). We assessed whether the daughter's microbiota was similar in composition to their mother's using metataxonomics. Permutation tests revealed that while some pairs did have similar vaginal microbiota, the degree of similarity did not exceed that expected by chance. Genome-resolved metagenomics was used to identify shared bacterial strains in a subset of the families (n = 22). We found a small number of bacterial strains that were shared between mother-daughter pairs but identified more shared strains between individuals from different families, indicating that vaginal bacteria may display biogeographic patterns. Earlier-in-life studies are needed to demonstrate vertical transmission of the vaginal microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael T. France
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Sarah E. Brown
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Anne M. Rompalo
- Division of Infectious Diseases, John Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Rebecca M. Brotman
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Jacques Ravel
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
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19
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Díez López C, Montiel González D, Vidaki A, Kayser M. Prediction of Smoking Habits From Class-Imbalanced Saliva Microbiome Data Using Data Augmentation and Machine Learning. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:886201. [PMID: 35928158 PMCID: PMC9343866 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.886201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Human microbiome research is moving from characterization and association studies to translational applications in medical research, clinical diagnostics, and others. One of these applications is the prediction of human traits, where machine learning (ML) methods are often employed, but face practical challenges. Class imbalance in available microbiome data is one of the major problems, which, if unaccounted for, leads to spurious prediction accuracies and limits the classifier's generalization. Here, we investigated the predictability of smoking habits from class-imbalanced saliva microbiome data by combining data augmentation techniques to account for class imbalance with ML methods for prediction. We collected publicly available saliva 16S rRNA gene sequencing data and smoking habit metadata demonstrating a serious class imbalance problem, i.e., 175 current vs. 1,070 non-current smokers. Three data augmentation techniques (synthetic minority over-sampling technique, adaptive synthetic, and tree-based associative data augmentation) were applied together with seven ML methods: logistic regression, k-nearest neighbors, support vector machine with linear and radial kernels, decision trees, random forest, and extreme gradient boosting. K-fold nested cross-validation was used with the different augmented data types and baseline non-augmented data to validate the prediction outcome. Combining data augmentation with ML generally outperformed baseline methods in our dataset. The final prediction model combined tree-based associative data augmentation and support vector machine with linear kernel, and achieved a classification performance expressed as Matthews correlation coefficient of 0.36 and AUC of 0.81. Our method successfully addresses the problem of class imbalance in microbiome data for reliable prediction of smoking habits.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Manfred Kayser
- Department of Genetic Identification, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, Netherlands
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20
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Mehta SD, Nandi D, Agingu W, Green SJ, Otieno FO, Bhaumik DK, Bailey RC. Longitudinal Changes in the Composition of the Penile Microbiome Are Associated With Circumcision Status, HIV and HSV-2 Status, Sexual Practices, and Female Partner Microbiome Composition. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:916437. [PMID: 35865819 PMCID: PMC9294230 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.916437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Penile microbiome composition has been associated with HSV-2 and HIV in men and with bacterial vaginosis (BV) and HSV-2 in female sex partners. This study sought to 1) characterize penile microbiome composition over a 1-year period and 2) identify factors associated with penile microbiome composition over time. Methods This prospective study of community-recruited heterosexual couples in Kenya measured penile and vaginal microbiomes via 16S ribosomal RNA gene amplicon sequencing at 4 time points over 1 year (1, 6, and 12 months after baseline). We used longitudinal mixed-effects modeling to assess associated demographic, behavioral, and disease factors and changes in community type, meatal taxa with the highest mean relative abundance, and alpha and beta diversity measures. We estimated group-based trajectories to elucidate compositional trends. Results Among 218 men with 740 observations, men had a median age of 26 years, 11.6% were living with HIV, and 46.1% were HSV-2 seropositive. We identified 7 penile community types that varied with circumcision status, female partner vaginal microbiome community state type (CST), condom use, and penile washing. Across varying analytic approaches, 50%-60% of men had stable penile microbiome compositions. Alpha diversity measures were lower for circumcised men and those who reported condom use; they were stable over time but higher if female partners had diverse CSTs or BV. BV was positively associated with the relative abundance of numerous individual penile taxa. The decreased Bray-Curtis similarity was more common for men with HSV-2, and HSV-2 was also associated with a lower relative abundance of Corynebacterium and Staphylococcus. Conclusions Over a 1-year period, penile microbiome composition was stable for a substantial proportion of men and was influenced by men's circumcision status, sexual practices, female partner's vaginal CST and BV status, and men's HSV-2 status. In the female genital tract, a diverse CST is often associated with poorer health outcomes. Our results contribute toward understanding whether this framework extends to the penile microbiome and whether diversity and the associated penile microbiome compositions influence susceptibility or resilience to poorer health outcomes in men. Focusing on understanding how these factors influence the penile microbiome may lead to therapeutic avenues for reduced HSV-2 and BV infections in men and their female sex partners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Supriya D. Mehta
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, College of Medicine, Rush University, Chicago, IL, United States,Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL, United States,*Correspondence: Supriya D. Mehta,
| | - Debarghya Nandi
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL, United States
| | | | - Stefan J. Green
- Genomics and Microbiome Core Facility, College of Medicine, Rush University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Fredrick O. Otieno
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Dulal K. Bhaumik
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Robert C. Bailey
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL, United States
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21
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Alimena S, Davis J, Fichorova RN, Feldman S. The vaginal microbiome: A complex milieu affecting risk of human papillomavirus persistence and cervical cancer. Curr Probl Cancer 2022; 46:100877. [PMID: 35709613 DOI: 10.1016/j.currproblcancer.2022.100877] [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: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this review is to describe the existing literature regarding the relationship between the vaginal microbiome, human papillomavirus persistence, and cervical cancer risk, as well as to discuss factors that mediate these relationships. Data suggest that alterations in the vaginal microbiome affect the risk of human papillomavirus infection and persistence, which has downstream effects on cervical dysplasia and cancer risk. The homeostatic Lactobillus species L. crispatus, L. gasseri, L. jensenii act to promote a healthy vaginal environment, while L. iners and pathogens causing bacterial vaginosis are associated with increased inflammation, human papillomavirus infection, cervical dysplasia, and potentially cancer. There are, however, still several large gaps in the literature, particularly related to the modifiable and non-modifiable factors that affect the vaginal microbiome and ensuing risk of pre-cancerous and cancerous lesions. Evidence currently suggests that endogenous and exogenous hormones, tobacco products, and sexual practices influence vaginal microbiome composition, but the nuances of these relationships and how changes in these factors affect dysplasia risk are yet to be delineated. Other studies examining how diet, exercise, race, socioeconomic status, and genetic factors influence the vaginal microbiome are difficult to interpret in the setting of multiple confounders. Future studies should focus on how changes in these modulatory factors might promote a healthy vaginal microbiome to prevent or treat dysplasia in the lower female genital tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Alimena
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA.
| | | | - Raina N Fichorova
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Sarah Feldman
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
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22
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Sunkavalli A, McClure R, Genco C. Molecular Regulatory Mechanisms Drive Emergent Pathogenetic Properties of Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Microorganisms 2022; 10:922. [PMID: 35630366 PMCID: PMC9147433 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10050922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Neisseria gonorrhoeae is the causative agent of the sexually transmitted infection (STI) gonorrhea, with an estimated 87 million annual cases worldwide. N. gonorrhoeae predominantly colonizes the male and female genital tract (FGT). In the FGT, N. gonorrhoeae confronts fluctuating levels of nutrients and oxidative and non-oxidative antimicrobial defenses of the immune system, as well as the resident microbiome. One mechanism utilized by N. gonorrhoeae to adapt to this dynamic FGT niche is to modulate gene expression primarily through DNA-binding transcriptional regulators. Here, we describe the major N. gonorrhoeae transcriptional regulators, genes under their control, and how these regulatory processes lead to pathogenic properties of N. gonorrhoeae during natural infection. We also discuss the current knowledge of the structure, function, and diversity of the FGT microbiome and its influence on gonococcal survival and transcriptional responses orchestrated by its DNA-binding regulators. We conclude with recent multi-omics data and modeling tools and their application to FGT microbiome dynamics. Understanding the strategies utilized by N. gonorrhoeae to regulate gene expression and their impact on the emergent characteristics of this pathogen during infection has the potential to identify new effective strategies to both treat and prevent gonorrhea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashwini Sunkavalli
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA;
| | - Ryan McClure
- Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, WA 99354, USA;
| | - Caroline Genco
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA;
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23
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Dash HR, Das S. Microbial community signatures for estimation of postmortem time intervals. ADVANCES IN APPLIED MICROBIOLOGY 2022; 118:91-113. [PMID: 35461664 DOI: 10.1016/bs.aambs.2022.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The human body provides a complex ecosystem for symbiotic habitation of a huge number of microorganisms. These commensal microorganisms provide a huge benefit to the living host by acting against many deadly infections. Once the host dies, many changes in the complex ecosystem of the human body take place. The personalized microbes of a human body undergo successional change as many exogenous microbes attack the nutrient-rich cadaver after death. The succession pattern change of microbes in human cadaver allows postulating different models for estimation of Postmortem time interval (PMI). Estimation of PMI has a broad prospect from the criminal investigation point of view. Though many techniques are being used nowadays to estimate PMI, all of them have their pros and cons. With the advent of advanced molecular biological techniques, studies on the thanatomicrobiome of a human cadaver have gained pace and provide a superior alternative for conventional methods of PMI estimation. This chapter summarizes the recent advancements in the changes in signature microflora postmortem with change in human microenvironment to postulate a consensus model for estimation of PMI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hirak Ranjan Dash
- DNA Fingerprinting Unit, Forensic Science Laboratory, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India.
| | - Surajit Das
- Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, Odisha, India.
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24
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Mora RM, Mehta P, Ziltzer R, Samplaski MK. Systematic Review: The Neovaginal Microbiome. Urology 2022; 167:3-12. [PMID: 35276200 DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2022.02.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 02/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review neovaginal colonization and inflammatory patterns, and factors that may impact this. METHODS A systematic review of the neovaginal microbiome was conducted in concordance with PRISMA guidelines through October 2021. RESULTS Thirteen articles were included, totaling 458 patients. Neovaginal constructions were most commonly performed with penile and scrotal skin grafts, sigmoid segments, and peritoneal grafts. The neovaginal microflora identified were generally polymicrobial and shared similarities with the native tissue. Nine studies identified Lactobacillus: 5/6 for penile skin, 1/3 for sigmoid, 1/1 for peritoneum, and 2/3 for other graft types, suggesting that the neovagina may support Lactobacillus either innately, via rectal migration or oral probiotic supplementation. A polymicrobial, bacterial vaginosis-like environment was found in nine studies. Inflammatory markers were also described: 2/6 for penile skin, 2/3 for sigmoid, 0/1 for peritoneum, and 1/3 for other graft types. Scant data were available on the impact of postsurgical duration, oral hormones, dilating, sexual practices, or douching on the neovaginal microbiome. CONCLUSION Understanding and optimizing the polymicrobial neovaginal microenvironment may improve surgical outcomes, specifically inflammatory, pain, and infectious. Future research should focus on standardizing testing and classification systems, and treating neovaginal dysbiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Mateo Mora
- University of Southern California Institute of Urology, 1441 Eastlake Avenue, Los Angeles, California, USA.
| | - Preeya Mehta
- University of Southern California, 1985 Zonal Avenue, Los Angeles, California, USA.
| | - Ryan Ziltzer
- University of Southern California, 1985 Zonal Avenue, Los Angeles, California, USA.
| | - Mary K Samplaski
- University of Southern California Institute of Urology, 1441 Eastlake Avenue, Los Angeles, California, USA.
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25
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Towards a deeper understanding of the vaginal microbiota. Nat Microbiol 2022; 7:367-378. [PMID: 35246662 DOI: 10.1038/s41564-022-01083-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The human vaginal microbiota is a critical determinant of vaginal health. These communities live in close association with the vaginal epithelium and rely on host tissues for resources. Although often dominated by lactobacilli, the vaginal microbiota is also frequently composed of a collection of facultative and obligate anaerobes. The prevalence of these communities with a paucity of Lactobacillus species varies among women, and epidemiological studies have associated them with an increased risk of adverse health outcomes. The mechanisms that drive these associations have yet to be described in detail, with few studies establishing causative relationships. Here, we review our current understanding of the vaginal microbiota and its connection with host health. We centre our discussion around the biology of the vaginal microbiota when Lactobacillus species are dominant versus when they are not, including host factors that are implicated in shaping these microbial communities and the resulting adverse health outcomes. We discuss current approaches to modulate the vaginal microbiota, including probiotics and vaginal microbiome transplants, and argue that new model systems of the cervicovaginal environment that incorporate the vaginal microbiota are needed to progress from association to mechanism and this will prove invaluable for future research.
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26
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Jewanraj J, Ngcapu S, Liebenberg LJP. Semen: A modulator of female genital tract inflammation and a vector for HIV-1 transmission. Am J Reprod Immunol 2021; 86:e13478. [PMID: 34077596 PMCID: PMC9286343 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In order to establish productive infection in women, HIV must transverse the vaginal epithelium and gain access to local target cells. Genital inflammation contributes to the availability of HIV susceptible cells at the female genital mucosa and is associated with higher HIV transmission rates in women. Factors that contribute to genital inflammation may subsequently increase the risk of HIV infection in women. Semen is a highly immunomodulatory fluid containing several bioactive molecules with the potential to influence inflammation and immune activation at the female genital tract. In addition to its role as a vector for HIV transmission, semen induces profound mucosal changes to prime the female reproductive tract for conception. Still, most studies of mucosal immunity are conducted in the absence of semen or without considering its immune impact on the female genital tract. This review discusses the various mechanisms by which semen exposure may influence female genital inflammation and highlights the importance of routine screening for semen biomarkers in vaginal specimens to account for its impact on genital inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janine Jewanraj
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA)DurbanSouth Africa
- Department of Medical MicrobiologyUniversity of KwaZulu‐NatalDurbanSouth Africa
| | - Sinaye Ngcapu
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA)DurbanSouth Africa
- Department of Medical MicrobiologyUniversity of KwaZulu‐NatalDurbanSouth Africa
| | - Lenine J. P. Liebenberg
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA)DurbanSouth Africa
- Department of Medical MicrobiologyUniversity of KwaZulu‐NatalDurbanSouth Africa
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27
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Abstract
Up to 50% of women receiving first-line antibiotics for bacterial vaginosis (BV) experience recurrence within 12 weeks. Evidence suggests that reinfection from an untreated regular sexual partner contributes to recurrence. We conducted a pilot study of 34 heterosexual couples to describe the impact of concurrent partner treatment on the composition of the genital microbiota over a 12-week period. We also determined the acceptability and tolerability of concurrent partner treatment and obtained preliminary estimates of the efficacy of the intervention to inform a randomized controlled trial (RCT). Women received first-line antibiotic treatment for BV (i.e., oral metronidazole or intravaginal clindamycin), and their male partner received oral metronidazole, 400 mg, and 2% clindamycin cream applied topically to penile skin, both twice daily for 7 days. The genital microbiota was characterized at three anatomical sites (women, vaginal; men, cutaneous penile and first-pass urine [representing the urethra]) using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Immediately posttreatment, concurrent partner treatment significantly reduced the abundance of BV-associated bacteria (false-discovery rate [FDR] corrected P value < 0.05) and altered the overall microbiota composition of all three anatomical sites (P = 0.001). Suppression of BV-associated bacteria was sustained in the majority (81%) of women over the 12-week period (FDR P value < 0.05), despite BV-associated bacteria reemerging at both genital sites in men. In this cohort of women at high risk for recurrence, five recurred within 12 weeks of treatment (17%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 6 to 34%). Importantly, men tolerated and adhered to combination therapy. Our findings provide support for an RCT of combined oral and topical male partner treatment for BV. IMPORTANCE Recurrence of BV following standard treatment is unacceptably high. Posttreatment recurrence is distressing for women, and it imposes a considerable burden on the health care system. Recurrences result in multiple presentations to clinical services and repeated antibiotic use, and the associated obstetric and gynecological sequelae are significant. New treatments to improve long-term BV cure are urgently needed. Here, we used 16S rRNA gene sequencing to investigate changes in the microbiota composition at three genital sites (vagina, penile skin, and male urethra) of heterosexual couples undergoing concurrent partner treatment for bacterial vaginosis (BV). We found that concurrent partner treatment immediately and significantly altered the composition of the genital microbiota of both partners, with a reduction in BV-associated bacteria seen at all three sites. BV cure at 12 weeks posttreatment was higher than expected. These microbiological data provide evidence for continued investigation of partner treatment as a strategy to improve BV cure.
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28
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Vodstrcil LA, Muzny CA, Plummer EL, Sobel JD, Bradshaw CS. Bacterial vaginosis: drivers of recurrence and challenges and opportunities in partner treatment. BMC Med 2021; 19:194. [PMID: 34470644 PMCID: PMC8411528 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-021-02077-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the most common vaginal dysbiosis to affect women globally, yet an unacceptably high proportion of women experience BV recurrence within 6 months of recommended antibiotic therapy. The low rate of sustained cure highlights our limited understanding of the pathogenesis of BV recurrence, which has been attributed to possible persistence and re-emergence of BV-associated bacteria (BVAB) or a BV-associated biofilm following antimicrobials and/or reinfection occurring from sexual partners.There is a robust body of evidence to support the exchange of bacteria between partners during sexual activity, and while the hypothesis that women treated for BV are subsequently reinfected with BVAB following sex with an untreated sexual partner is not new, failure of past partner treatment trials has eroded confidence in this concept. If reinfection is a key driver of recurrence, current antimicrobial regimens directed to women alone are unlikely to achieve a high level of sustained cure, and the approach of partner treatment to reduce reinfection is justified. In this manuscript, we present the molecular and epidemiological evidence that underlies the hypothesis that BV is sexually transmitted, and summarise why research that continues to consider sexual partnerships is necessary. We also outline the significant barriers and challenges that we have identified while undertaking partner treatment studies, and we discuss the factors that impact on our ability to determine their effectiveness.Ultimately, the pathogenesis of BV recurrence is likely to be multifaceted and not attributable to a single mechanism in all women. If we are to achieve sustained cure for women, it is likely that combined and individualised approaches to eradicate BVAB, support an optimal vaginal microbiome, and prevent reinfection from partners will be required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lenka A Vodstrcil
- Central Clinical School - Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Monash University, 580 Swanston St, Carlton, Victoria, 3053, Australia.
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Carlton, Victoria, Australia.
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Christina A Muzny
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Erica L Plummer
- Central Clinical School - Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Monash University, 580 Swanston St, Carlton, Victoria, 3053, Australia
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jack D Sobel
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Catriona S Bradshaw
- Central Clinical School - Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Monash University, 580 Swanston St, Carlton, Victoria, 3053, Australia
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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29
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Martínez JE, Vargas A, Pérez-Sánchez T, Encío IJ, Cabello-Olmo M, Barajas M. Human Microbiota Network: Unveiling Potential Crosstalk between the Different Microbiota Ecosystems and Their Role in Health and Disease. Nutrients 2021; 13:2905. [PMID: 34578783 PMCID: PMC8466470 DOI: 10.3390/nu13092905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The human body is host to a large number of microorganisms which conform the human microbiota, that is known to play an important role in health and disease. Although most of the microorganisms that coexist with us are located in the gut, microbial cells present in other locations (like skin, respiratory tract, genitourinary tract, and the vaginal zone in women) also play a significant role regulating host health. The fact that there are different kinds of microbiota in different body areas does not mean they are independent. It is plausible that connection exist, and different studies have shown that the microbiota present in different zones of the human body has the capability of communicating through secondary metabolites. In this sense, dysbiosis in one body compartment may negatively affect distal areas and contribute to the development of diseases. Accordingly, it could be hypothesized that the whole set of microbial cells that inhabit the human body form a system, and the dialogue between the different host microbiotas may be a contributing factor for the susceptibility to developing diseased states. For this reason, the present review aims to integrate the available literature on the relationship between the different human microbiotas and understand how changes in the microbiota in one body region can influence other microbiota communities in a bidirectional process. The findings suggest that the different microbiotas may act in a coordinated way to decisively influence human well-being. This new integrative paradigm opens new insights in the microbiota field of research and its relationship with human health that should be taken into account in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Miriam Cabello-Olmo
- Biochemistry Area, Department of Health Science, Public University of Navarre, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (J.E.M.); (A.V.); (T.P.-S.); (I.J.E.)
| | - Miguel Barajas
- Biochemistry Area, Department of Health Science, Public University of Navarre, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (J.E.M.); (A.V.); (T.P.-S.); (I.J.E.)
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30
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Jewanraj J, Ngcapu S, Osman F, Ramsuran V, Fish M, Mtshali A, Singh R, Mansoor LE, Abdool Karim SS, Abdool Karim Q, Passmore JS, Liebenberg LJP. Transient association between semen exposure and biomarkers of genital inflammation in South African women at risk of HIV infection. J Int AIDS Soc 2021; 24:e25766. [PMID: 34164927 PMCID: PMC8223121 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Semen induces mucosal changes in the female reproductive tract to improve pregnancy outcomes. Since semen-induced alterations are likely short-lived and genital inflammation is linked to HIV acquisition in women, we investigated the contribution of recent semen exposure on biomarkers of genital inflammation in women at high HIV risk and the persistence of these associations. METHODS We assessed stored genital specimens from 152 HIV-negative KwaZulu-Natal women who participated in the CAPRISA 008 trial between November 2012 and October 2014. During the two-year study period, 651 vaginal specimens were collected biannually (mean five samples per woman). Cervicovaginal lavage (CVL) was screened for prostate-specific antigen (PSA) by ELISA, whereas Y-chromosome DNA (YcDNA) detection and quantification were conducted by RT-PCR, representing semen exposure within 48 hours (PSA+YcDNA+) and semen exposure within three to fifteen days (PSA-YcDNA+). Soluble protein concentrations were measured in CVLs by multiplexed ELISA. T-cell frequencies were assessed in cytobrushes by flow-cytometry, and vulvovaginal swabs were used to detect common vaginal microbes by PCR. Linear mixed models adjusting for factors associated with genital inflammation and HIV risk were used to assess the impact of semen exposure on biomarkers of inflammation over multiple visits. RESULTS Here, 19% (125/651) of CVLs were PSA+YcDNA+, 14% (93/651) were PSA-YcDNA+ and 67% (433/651) were PSA-YcDNA-. Semen exposure was associated with how often women saw their partners, the frequency of vaginal sex in the past month, HSV-2 antibody detection, current gonorrhoea infection and Nugent Score. Both PSA detection (PSA+YcDNA+) and higher cervicovaginal YcDNA concentrations predicted increases in several cytokines, barrier-related proteins (MMP-2, TIMP-1 and TIMP-4) and activated CD4+CCR5+HLA-DR+ T cells (β = 0.050; CI 0.001 to 0.098; p = 0.046) and CD4+HLA-DR+ T cells (β = 0.177; CI 0.016 to 0.339; p = 0.032) respectively. PSA detection was specifically associated with raised pro-inflammatory cytokines (including IL-6, TNF-α, IP-10 and RANTES), and with the detection of BVAB2 (OR = 1.755; CI 1.116 to 2.760; p = 0.015), P. bivia (OR = 1.886; CI 1.102 to 3.228; p = 0.021) and Gardnerella vaginalis (OR = 1.815; CI 1.093 to 3.015; p = 0.021). CONCLUSIONS More recent semen exposure was associated with raised levels of inflammatory biomarkers and the detection of BV-associated microbes, which declined by three to fifteen days of post-exposure. Although transient, semen-induced alterations may have implications for HIV susceptibility in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janine Jewanraj
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA)University of KwaZulu‐NatalDurbanSouth Africa
- Department of Medical MicrobiologySchool of Laboratory Medicine and Medical SciencesUniversity of KwaZulu‐NatalDurbanSouth Africa
| | - Sinaye Ngcapu
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA)University of KwaZulu‐NatalDurbanSouth Africa
- Department of Medical MicrobiologySchool of Laboratory Medicine and Medical SciencesUniversity of KwaZulu‐NatalDurbanSouth Africa
| | - Farzana Osman
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA)University of KwaZulu‐NatalDurbanSouth Africa
| | - Veron Ramsuran
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA)University of KwaZulu‐NatalDurbanSouth Africa
- Department of Medical MicrobiologySchool of Laboratory Medicine and Medical SciencesUniversity of KwaZulu‐NatalDurbanSouth Africa
- KwaZulu‐Natal Research Innovation and Sequencing Platform (KRISP)DurbanSouth Africa
| | - Maryam Fish
- KwaZulu‐Natal Research Innovation and Sequencing Platform (KRISP)DurbanSouth Africa
| | - Andile Mtshali
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA)University of KwaZulu‐NatalDurbanSouth Africa
- Department of Medical MicrobiologySchool of Laboratory Medicine and Medical SciencesUniversity of KwaZulu‐NatalDurbanSouth Africa
| | - Ravesh Singh
- Department of Medical MicrobiologySchool of Laboratory Medicine and Medical SciencesUniversity of KwaZulu‐NatalDurbanSouth Africa
- Department of MicrobiologyNational Health Laboratory ServicesKwaZulu‐Natal Academic ComplexInkosi Albert Luthuli Central HospitalDurbanSouth Africa
| | - Leila E Mansoor
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA)University of KwaZulu‐NatalDurbanSouth Africa
- School of Nursing and Public HealthUniversity of KwaZulu‐NatalDurbanSouth Africa
| | - Salim S Abdool Karim
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA)University of KwaZulu‐NatalDurbanSouth Africa
- Department of EpidemiologyColumbia UniversityNew YorkNYUSA
| | - Quarraisha Abdool Karim
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA)University of KwaZulu‐NatalDurbanSouth Africa
- Department of EpidemiologyColumbia UniversityNew YorkNYUSA
| | - Jo‐Ann S Passmore
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA)University of KwaZulu‐NatalDurbanSouth Africa
- Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine (IDM)University of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
- National Health Laboratory ServicesJohannesburgSouth Africa
| | - Lenine J P Liebenberg
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA)University of KwaZulu‐NatalDurbanSouth Africa
- Department of Medical MicrobiologySchool of Laboratory Medicine and Medical SciencesUniversity of KwaZulu‐NatalDurbanSouth Africa
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31
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Dabee S, Passmore JAS, Heffron R, Jaspan HB. The Complex Link between the Female Genital Microbiota, Genital Infections, and Inflammation. Infect Immun 2021; 89:e00487-20. [PMID: 33558324 PMCID: PMC8091093 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00487-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The female genital tract microbiota is part of a complex ecosystem influenced by several physiological, genetic, and behavioral factors. It is uniquely linked to a woman's mucosal immunity and plays a critical role in the regulation of genital inflammation. A vaginal microbiota characterized by a high abundance of lactobacilli and low overall bacterial diversity is associated with lower inflammation. On the other hand, a more diverse microbiota is linked to high mucosal inflammation levels, a compromised genital epithelial barrier, and an increased risk of sexually transmitted infections and other conditions. Several bacterial taxa such as Gardnerella spp., Prevotella spp., Sneathia spp., and Atopobium spp. are well known to have adverse effects; however, the definitive cause of this microbial dysbiosis is yet to be fully elucidated. The aim of this review is to discuss the multiple ways in which the microbiota influences the overall genital inflammatory milieu and to explore the causes and consequences of this inflammatory response. While there is abundant evidence linking a diverse genital microbiota to elevated inflammation, understanding the risk factors and mechanisms through which it affects genital health is essential. A robust appreciation of these factors is important for identifying effective prevention and treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Smritee Dabee
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Jo-Ann S Passmore
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine (IDM), University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- CAPRISA Centre of Excellence in HIV Prevention, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- National Health Laboratory Service, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Heather B Jaspan
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine (IDM), University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
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32
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Theis KR, Florova V, Romero R, Borisov AB, Winters AD, Galaz J, Gomez-Lopez N. Sneathia: an emerging pathogen in female reproductive disease and adverse perinatal outcomes. Crit Rev Microbiol 2021; 47:517-542. [PMID: 33823747 DOI: 10.1080/1040841x.2021.1905606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Sneathia is an emerging pathogen implicated in adverse reproductive and perinatal outcomes. Although scarce, recent data suggest that vaginally residing Sneathia becomes pathogenic following its ascension into the upper urogenital tract, amniotic fluid, placenta, and foetal membranes. The role of Sneathia in women's health and disease is generally underappreciated because the cultivation of these bacteria is limited by their complex nutritional requirements, slow growth patterns, and anaerobic nature. For this reason, molecular methods are typically required for the detection and differential diagnosis of Sneathia infections. Here, we review the laboratory methods used for the diagnosis of Sneathia infections, the molecular mechanisms underlying its virulence, and its sensitivity to antibiotics. We further review the evidence of Sneathia's contributions to the pathogenesis of bacterial vaginosis, chorioamnionitis, preterm prelabour rupture of membranes, spontaneous preterm labour, stillbirth, maternal and neonatal sepsis, HIV infection, and cervical cancer. Collectively, growing evidence indicates that Sneathia represents an important yet underappreciated pathogen affecting the development and progression of several adverse clinical conditions diagnosed in pregnant women and their neonates, as well as in non-pregnant women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin R Theis
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U. S. Department of Health and Human Services, Detroit, MI, USA.,Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Immunology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Violetta Florova
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U. S. Department of Health and Human Services, Detroit, MI, USA.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Roberto Romero
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U. S. Department of Health and Human Services, Detroit, MI, USA.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA.,Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA.,Detroit Medical Center, Detroit, MI, USA.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Andrei B Borisov
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U. S. Department of Health and Human Services, Detroit, MI, USA.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Andrew D Winters
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U. S. Department of Health and Human Services, Detroit, MI, USA.,Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Immunology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Jose Galaz
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U. S. Department of Health and Human Services, Detroit, MI, USA.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Nardhy Gomez-Lopez
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U. S. Department of Health and Human Services, Detroit, MI, USA.,Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Immunology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
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Sobel JD, Sobel R. Current and emerging pharmacotherapy for recurrent bacterial vaginosis. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2021; 22:1593-1600. [PMID: 33750246 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2021.1904890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Given the frequency of recurrent bacterial vaginosis (RBV), enhancing treatment and preventing recurrence have become the central target of pharmacotherapy today. Antimicrobial failure is occurring at a time when knowledge of pathogenesis of bacterial vaginosis (BV) and RBV is incomplete, limiting rational treatment modification. AREAS COVERED The current manuscript reviews pathogenesis of RBV and the performance of available antimicrobials as well as attempts employed to enhance activity and pharmacologic strategies to reduce BV recurrence and refractory vaginal disease. The authors also provide their expert perspectives on the subject area, including their outlook for the future. EXPERT OPINION In the face of an empty pipeline of new antibiotics, strategies have emerged to enhance existing antibiotic efficacy, which include modifying drug dose, treatment duration, long-term prophylactic regimens, and use of biofilm disrupting agents. It is likely that future effective therapy will include several simultaneous and consecutive treatment components, including combinations of antibiotics, antibiofilm agents, and probiotics. Measures to prevent sexual transmission and reinfection are also essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack D Sobel
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, United States
| | - Ryan Sobel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, United States
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34
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Tuddenham S, Ravel J, Marrazzo JM. Protection and Risk: Male and Female Genital Microbiota and Sexually Transmitted Infections. J Infect Dis 2021; 223:S222-S235. [PMID: 33576776 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiaa762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Unique compositional and functional features of the cervicovaginal microbiota have been associated with protection against and risk for sexually transmitted infections (STI). In men, our knowledge of the interaction between the penile microbiota and STI is less developed. The current state of our understanding of these microbiota and their role in select STIs is briefly reviewed, along with strategies that leverage existing findings to manipulate genital microbiota and optimize protection against STIs. Finally, we focus on major research gaps and present a framework for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Tuddenham
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Jacques Ravel
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Jeanne M Marrazzo
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
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35
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Exploring the Vaginal Microbiome and Intravaginal Practices in Postmenopausal Women. Nurs Res 2021; 70:405-411. [PMID: 34262008 PMCID: PMC8462522 DOI: 10.1097/nnr.0000000000000538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence suggests that intravaginal practices (IVPs) women use to cleanse their vagina or enhance sexual pleasure may be associated with unhealthy changes in the vaginal microbiome (VM). However, the effects of these practices in postmenopausal women are unknown. OBJECTIVES The objective of this pilot study was to characterize the VM communities of postmenopausal women, identify types and frequency of IVPs, and explore associations between the VM and IVPs in postmenopausal women. METHODS We analyzed the VM data of 21 postmenopausal women in Atlanta, Georgia, from vaginal swabs collected at a routine gynecological visit. 16S rRNA gene sequencing in the V3-V4 region was used to characterize the VM. In addition, we described the IVPs of these women, identified by using our newly developed instrument: the Vaginal Cleansing Practices Questionnaire. The associations between the VM and IVPs were explored by comparing the alpha diversities, beta diversities, and the relative abundances at both the community level and individual genus level. RESULTS The most abundant known bacterial genus found in the VM samples was Lactobacillus (35.7%), followed by Prevotella (21.4%). Eleven women (52%) reported using at least one type of IVP since menopause. The most common type of IVP was soap and water to clean inside the vagina. The use of IVPs was not associated with any alpha diversity metric, including Shannon index, inverse Simpson index, and Chao1 index; beta diversity metric, including Bray-Curtis and Jaccard distances; nor relative abundances at the community and individual genus level. Sociodemographic factors were also not associated with any alpha diversity metric. DISCUSSION Clinicians must assess IVPs and other vaginal and sexual hygiene practices of women of all ages to educate and promote healthy behaviors. More than half of the postmenopausal women in this pilot study use IVPs. Understanding the reasoning behind participants' use of IVPs and their perceptions of the possible effects of these practices will require further research. Although the small sample did not show associations with the VM, more extensive studies are warranted.
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36
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Vodstrcil LA, Plummer EL, Doyle M, Fairley CK, McGuiness C, Bateson D, Hocking JS, Law MG, Petoumenos K, Donovan B, Chow EPF, Bradshaw CS. Treating male partners of women with bacterial vaginosis (StepUp): a protocol for a randomised controlled trial to assess the clinical effectiveness of male partner treatment for reducing the risk of BV recurrence. BMC Infect Dis 2020; 20:834. [PMID: 33176727 PMCID: PMC7661182 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-020-05563-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is estimated to affect 1 in 3 women globally and is associated with obstetric and gynaecological sequelae. Current recommended therapies have good short-term efficacy but 1 in 2 women experience BV recurrence within 6 months of treatment. Evidence of male carriage of BV-organisms suggests that male partners may be reinfecting women with BV-associated bacteria (henceforth referred to as BV-organisms) and impacting on the efficacy of treatment approaches solely directed to women. This trial aims to determine the effect of concurrent male partner treatment for preventing BV recurrence compared to current standard of care. METHODS StepUp is an open-label, multicentre, parallel group randomised controlled trial for women diagnosed with BV and their male partner. Women with clinical-BV defined using current gold standard diagnosis methods (≥3 Amsel criteria and Nugent score (NS) = 4-10) and with a regular male partner will be assessed for eligibility, and couples will then be consented. All women will be prescribed oral metronidazole 400 mg twice daily (BID) for 7 days, or if contraindicated, a 7-day regimen of topical vaginal 2% clindamycin. Couples will be randomised 1:1 to either current standard of care (female treatment only), or female treatment and concurrent male partner treatment (7 days of combined antibiotics - oral metronidazole tablets 400 mg BID and 2% clindamycin cream applied topically to the glans penis and upper shaft [under the foreskin if uncircumcised] BID). Couples will be followed for up to 12 weeks to assess BV status in women, and assess the adherence, tolerability and acceptability of male partner treatment. The primary outcome is BV recurrence defined as ≥3 Amsel criteria and NS = 4-10 within 12 weeks of enrolment. The estimated sample size is 342 couples, to detect a 40% reduction in BV recurrence rates from 40% in the control group to 24% in the intervention group within 12 weeks. DISCUSSION Current treatments directed solely to women result in unacceptably high rates of BV recurrence. If proven to be effective the findings from this trial will directly inform the development of new treatment strategies to impact on BV recurrence. TRIAL REGISTRATION The trial was prospectively registered on 12 February 2019 on the Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry (ACTRN12619000196145, Universal Trial Number: U1111-1228-0106, https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=376883&isReview=true ).
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Affiliation(s)
- Lenka A Vodstrcil
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia.
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia.
| | - Erica L Plummer
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia
| | - Michelle Doyle
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia
| | - Christopher K Fairley
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia
| | - Colette McGuiness
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia
| | - Deborah Bateson
- Family Planning New South Wales, Ashfield, 2131, Australia
- Discipline of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Neonatology, University of Sydney, Camperdown, 2006, Australia
| | - Jane S Hocking
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population & Global Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3010, Australia
| | - Matthew G Law
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, 2052, Australia
| | - Kathy Petoumenos
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, 2052, Australia
| | - Basil Donovan
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, 2052, Australia
| | - Eric P F Chow
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia
| | - Catriona S Bradshaw
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia.
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia.
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population & Global Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3010, Australia.
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