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Kwinten KJJ, Lemain VA, de Hullu JA, Leenders WPJ, Steenbeek MP, van Altena AM, Pijnenborg JMA. Cervicovaginal specimen biomarkers for early detection of ovarian and endometrial cancer: A review. Cancer Med 2024; 13:e70000. [PMID: 39031958 PMCID: PMC11259558 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.70000] [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: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the last decade, technical innovations have resulted in the development of several minimally invasive diagnostic cancer tools. Within women at high risk of developing ovarian or endometrial cancer (EC) due to hereditary cancer syndrome, there is an urgent need for minimally invasive and patient-friendly methods to detect ovarian cancer and EC at an early stage. MATERIALS AND METHODS We performed a systematic search of studies using DNA methylation or mutation analysis, microbiome, or proteomics performed on cervicovaginal specimens (smear, swab, or tampon) intended to detect ovarian and EC published until January 2024. RESULTS Included studies (n = 36) showed high heterogeneity in terms of biomarkers used and outcomes, and only a few studies reported on the detection of biomarkers in high-risk subgroups. CONCLUSION Based on the findings in this review, DNA methylation techniques seem to be the most promising for detecting ovarian and EC at early stages in the general population. Future validation of cervicovaginal DNA methylation techniques is needed to determine whether this technique might be beneficial in hereditary high-risk subgroups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin J. J. Kwinten
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyRadboud University Medical CenterNijmegenThe Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyCanisius Wilhelmina HospitalNijmegenThe Netherlands
| | - Victor A. Lemain
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyRadboud University Medical CenterNijmegenThe Netherlands
| | - Joanne A. de Hullu
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyRadboud University Medical CenterNijmegenThe Netherlands
| | | | - Miranda P. Steenbeek
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyRadboud University Medical CenterNijmegenThe Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyCatharina Hospital EindhovenEindhovenThe Netherlands
| | - Anne M. van Altena
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyRadboud University Medical CenterNijmegenThe Netherlands
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Javadi K, Ferdosi-Shahandashti E, Rajabnia M, Khaledi M. Vaginal microbiota and gynecological cancers: a complex and evolving relationship. Infect Agent Cancer 2024; 19:27. [PMID: 38877504 PMCID: PMC11179293 DOI: 10.1186/s13027-024-00590-7] [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: 02/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024] Open
Abstract
The vagina hosts a community of microorganisms known as the vaginal microbiota. This community is relatively stable and straightforward, with Lactobacillus species being the most dominant members. The vaginal microbiota has various functions that are essential for maintaining human health and balance. For example, it can metabolise dietary nutrients, produce growth factors, communicate with other bacteria, modulate the immune system, and prevent the invasion of harmful pathogens. When the vaginal microbiota is disrupted, it can lead to diseases and infections. The observed disturbance is distinguished by a reduction in the prevalence of Lactobacillus and a concurrent rise in the number of other bacterial species that exhibit a higher tolerance to low oxygen levels. Gynecologic cancers are a group of cancers that affect the female reproductive organs and tissues, such as the ovaries, uterus, cervix, vagina, vulva, and endometrium. These cancers are a major global health problem for women. Understanding the complex interactions between the host and the vaginal microorganisms may provide new insights into the prevention and treatment of gynecologic cancers. This could improve the quality of life and health outcomes for women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kasra Javadi
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elaheh Ferdosi-Shahandashti
- Biomedical and Microbial Advanced Technologies Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Mehdi Rajabnia
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran.
| | - Mansoor Khaledi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran.
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Rodrigues R, Sousa C, Vale N. Deciphering the Puzzle: Literature Insights on Chlamydia trachomatis-Mediated Tumorigenesis, Paving the Way for Future Research. Microorganisms 2024; 12:1126. [PMID: 38930508 PMCID: PMC11205399 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12061126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Some infectious agents have the potential to cause specific modifications in the cellular microenvironment that could be propitious to the carcinogenesis process. Currently, there are specific viruses and bacteria, such as human papillomavirus (HPV) and Helicobacter pylori, that are well established as risk factors for neoplasia. Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) infections are one of the most common bacterial sexually transmitted infections worldwide, and recent European data confirmed a continuous rise across Europe. The infection is often asymptomatic in both sexes, requiring a screening program for early detection. Notwithstanding, not all countries in Europe have it. Chlamydia trachomatis can cause chronic and persistent infections, resulting in inflammation, and there are plausible biological mechanisms that link the genital infection with tumorigenesis. Herein, we aimed to understand the epidemiological and biological plausibility of CT genital infections causing endometrial, ovarian, and cervical tumors. Also, we covered some of the best suitable in vitro techniques that could be used to study this potential association. In addition, we defend the point of view of a personalized medicine strategy to treat those patients through the discovery of some biomarkers that could allow it. This review supports the need for the development of further fundamental studies in this area, in order to investigate and establish the role of chlamydial genital infections in oncogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafaela Rodrigues
- PerMed Research Group, Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS), Rua Doutor Plácido da Costa, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal; (R.R.); (C.S.)
- CINTESIS@RISE, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Alameda Professor Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
- Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory, Unilabs Portugal, Centro Empresarial Lionesa Porto, Rua Lionesa, 4465-671 Leça do Balio, Portugal
| | - Carlos Sousa
- PerMed Research Group, Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS), Rua Doutor Plácido da Costa, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal; (R.R.); (C.S.)
- Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory, Unilabs Portugal, Centro Empresarial Lionesa Porto, Rua Lionesa, 4465-671 Leça do Balio, Portugal
| | - Nuno Vale
- PerMed Research Group, Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS), Rua Doutor Plácido da Costa, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal; (R.R.); (C.S.)
- CINTESIS@RISE, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Alameda Professor Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Community Medicine, Health Information and Decision (MEDCIDS), Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Rua Doutor Plácido da Costa, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal
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Ghosh A, Jaaback K, Boulton A, Wong-Brown M, Raymond S, Dutta P, Bowden NA, Ghosh A. Fusobacterium nucleatum: An Overview of Evidence, Demi-Decadal Trends, and Its Role in Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes and Various Gynecological Diseases, including Cancers. Cells 2024; 13:717. [PMID: 38667331 PMCID: PMC11049087 DOI: 10.3390/cells13080717] [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: 03/07/2024] [Revised: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Gynecological and obstetric infectious diseases are crucial to women's health. There is growing evidence that links the presence of Fusobacterium nucleatum (F. nucleatum), an anaerobic oral commensal and potential periodontal pathogen, to the development and progression of various human diseases, including cancers. While the role of this opportunistic oral pathogen has been extensively studied in colorectal cancer in recent years, research on its epidemiological evidence and mechanistic link to gynecological diseases (GDs) is still ongoing. Thus, the present review, which is the first of its kind, aims to undertake a comprehensive and critical reappraisal of F. nucleatum, including the genetics and mechanistic role in promoting adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs) and various GDs, including cancers. Additionally, this review discusses new conceptual advances that link the immunomodulatory role of F. nucleatum to the development and progression of breast, ovarian, endometrial, and cervical carcinomas through the activation of various direct and indirect signaling pathways. However, further studies are needed to explore and elucidate the highly dynamic process of host-F. nucleatum interactions and discover new pathways, which will pave the way for the development of better preventive and therapeutic strategies against this pathobiont.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arunita Ghosh
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia;
- Drug Repurposing and Medicines Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia;
| | - Ken Jaaback
- Hunter New England Centre for Gynecological Cancer, John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle, NSW 2305, Australia;
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Angela Boulton
- Newcastle Private Hospital, Newcastle, NSW 2305, Australia; (A.B.); (S.R.)
| | - Michelle Wong-Brown
- Drug Repurposing and Medicines Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia;
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Steve Raymond
- Newcastle Private Hospital, Newcastle, NSW 2305, Australia; (A.B.); (S.R.)
| | - Partha Dutta
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA;
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Nikola A. Bowden
- Drug Repurposing and Medicines Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia;
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Arnab Ghosh
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia;
- Drug Repurposing and Medicines Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia;
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Meng Y, Sun J, Zhang G. Vaginal microbiota transplantation is a truly opulent and promising edge: fully grasp its potential. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1280636. [PMID: 38585656 PMCID: PMC10995359 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1280636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Vaginal microbiota transplantation (VMT) is a cutting-edge treatment modality that has the potential to revolutionize the management of vaginal disorders. The human vagina is a complex and dynamic ecosystem home to a diverse community of microorganisms. These microorganisms play a crucial role in maintaining the health and well-being of the female reproductive system. However, when the balance of this ecosystem is disrupted, it can lead to the development of various vaginal disorders. Conventional treatments, such as antibiotics and antifungal medications, can temporarily relieve the symptoms of vaginal disorders. However, they often fail to address the underlying cause of the problem, which is the disruption of the vaginal microbiota. In recent years, VMT has emerged as a promising therapeutic approach that aims to restore the balance of the vaginal ecosystem. Several studies have demonstrated the safety and efficacy of VMT in treating bacterial vaginosis, recurrent yeast infections, and other vaginal conditions. The procedure has also shown promising results in reducing the risk of sexually transmitted infections and preterm birth in pregnant women. However, more research is needed to establish optimal donor selection, preparation, and screening protocols, as well as long-term safety and efficacy. VMT offers a safe, effective, and minimally invasive treatment option for women with persistent vaginal problems. It could improve the quality of life for millions of women worldwide and become a standard treatment option shortly. With further research and development, it could potentially treat a wide range of other health problems beyond the scope of vaginal disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiming Meng
- Department of Central Laboratory, Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology, Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shenyang, China
| | - Jing Sun
- Department of Biobank, Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology, Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shenyang, China
| | - Guirong Zhang
- Department of Central Laboratory, Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology, Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shenyang, China
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Gibas-Dorna M, Żukiewicz-Sobczak W. Sustainable Nutrition and Human Health as Part of Sustainable Development. Nutrients 2024; 16:225. [PMID: 38257118 PMCID: PMC10819296 DOI: 10.3390/nu16020225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The concept of sustainable nutrition is focused on an optimal and health-promoting diet that is culturally acceptable, easily accessible, and eco-friendly by reducing environmental costs for present and future generations [...].
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Gibas-Dorna
- Collegium Medicum, Institute of Health Sciences, University of Zielona Gora, 28 Zyty Street, 65-046 Zielona Gora, Poland
| | - Wioletta Żukiewicz-Sobczak
- Department of Nutrition and Food, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Calisia University, 4 Nowy Swiat Street, 62-800 Kalisz, Poland
- Department of Biological Bases of Food and Feed Technologies, University of Life Science in Lublin, 28 Głęboka Street, 20-612 Lublin, Poland
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Giacometti C, Ludwig K. Editorial on the Special Issue Titled "Pathology and Diagnosis of Gynecologic Diseases". Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:3480. [PMID: 37998616 PMCID: PMC10669935 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13223480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
In the medical and diagnostic daily routine, gynecologic diseases present many different scenarios [...].
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Affiliation(s)
- Cinzia Giacometti
- Pathology Unit, Department of Diagnostic Sciences, ULSS 6 Euganea, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Kathrin Ludwig
- Pathology Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy;
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Lingasamy P, Modhukur V, Mändar R, Salumets A. Exploring Immunome and Microbiome Interplay in Reproductive Health: Current Knowledge, Challenges, and Novel Diagnostic Tools. Semin Reprod Med 2023; 41:172-189. [PMID: 38262441 PMCID: PMC10846929 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1778017] [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: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
The dynamic interplay between the immunome and microbiome in reproductive health is a complex and rapidly advancing research field, holding tremendously vast possibilities for the development of reproductive medicine. This immunome-microbiome relationship influences the innate and adaptive immune responses, thereby affecting the onset and progression of reproductive disorders. However, the mechanisms governing these interactions remain elusive and require innovative approaches to gather more understanding. This comprehensive review examines the current knowledge on reproductive microbiomes across various parts of female reproductive tract, with special consideration of bidirectional interactions between microbiomes and the immune system. Additionally, it explores innate and adaptive immunity, focusing on immunoglobulin (Ig) A and IgM antibodies, their regulation, self-antigen tolerance mechanisms, and their roles in immune homeostasis. This review also highlights ongoing technological innovations in microbiota research, emphasizing the need for standardized detection and analysis methods. For instance, we evaluate the clinical utility of innovative technologies such as Phage ImmunoPrecipitation Sequencing (PhIP-Seq) and Microbial Flow Cytometry coupled to Next-Generation Sequencing (mFLOW-Seq). Despite ongoing advancements, we emphasize the need for further exploration in this field, as a deeper understanding of immunome-microbiome interactions holds promise for innovative diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for reproductive health, like infertility treatment and management of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vijayachitra Modhukur
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Reet Mändar
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Andres Salumets
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institute and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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