Elevated systemic microbial translocation in pregnant HIV-infected women compared to HIV-uninfected women, and its inverse correlations with plasma progesterone levels

Abstract

In HIV infection, increased adverse perinatal outcomes reported among HIV-associated pregnancies are not fully understood. Currently, microbial product translocation (MT) from a permeable mucosa is demonstrated as a driver of inflammation, and may contribute to preterm delivery in HIV. Here, our results showed that plasma LPS levels (a representative marker of MT) were increased in HIV-infected women in the first and second trimester. Progesterone levels were significantly decreased in HIV-infected subjects in the first trimester and second trimester. There were significant inverse correlations between plasma LPS and progesterone in the first and second trimester. These results suggested heightened systemic MT and decreased plasma progesterone levels in HIV-infected pregnant women may play a role in increased incidence of preterm delivery.

Biomarkers of environmental enteric dysfunction and adverse birth outcomes: An observational study among pregnant women living with HIV in Tanzania

“…For example, intestinal damage resulting from low level ischemia or inflammation may share common pathways with placental insufficiency. 38 Increased microbial translocation has also been associated with reduced progesterone levels among pregnant PWLHIV, 39 which has been associated with preterm birth and may be associated with stillbirth. 40 Additional studies are needed to confirm our findings and to elucidate the potential mechanisms linking these maternal EED biomarkers to the risk of stillbirth.…”

Spotlight on the Gut Microbiome in Menopause: Current Insights

“…54 Plasma progesterone levels during human pregnancy are inversely correlated with plasma lipopolysaccharide, a marker of microbial translocation. 57 , 59 Taken together, this evidence suggests that the ovarian hormones estradiol and progesterone are important in limiting intestinal permeability and preventing microbial translocation.…”

The Gut Microbiome During Pregnancy

“…This study further suggests that intestinal MT may be an important factor in the preterm delivery of HIV-infected pregnant women. Zhou et al 66 found that plasma LPS level increased in preterm pregnant women infected with HIV, and progesterone level significantly decreased in subjects infected with HIV in early pregnancy and middle pregnancy. It indicated a significant negative correlation between plasma LPS and progesterone.…”