Novel insights in bacterial vaginosis etiology through genomic approaches

Abstract

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) has been considered as dysbiosis state whose etiology is not fully understood. This condition affects a large number of women of reproductive age and its study has been highly relevant due to the growing association of BV with and gynecological and obstetric complications and diseases, in addition to a greater susceptibility to sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV. The vaginal microbiota composition presents high variability among different ethnic groups of women, although, generally, the prevalence of lactobacilli species has been reported. Several studies suggest they may play a protective role, especially Lactobacillus crispatus whose population is typically present in low proportions in women with BV. This review article describes the contributions and limitations of genomic approaches in elucidating protective characteristics and mechanisms associated with colonization and persistence of lactobacilli strains. Although some genetic features were associated with resilience of L. crispatus during BV, furher studies are required to uncover their functions.

Bacterial Vaginosis and Post-Operative Pelvic Infections

“…Since the prevalence of BV is not the same in different patient populations despite having similar exposures, and due to the higher incidence in patients of African descent, genetic studies have been performed and revealed specific genetic loci implying a role for biological pathways related to cell signaling and mucosal immunity in the pathogenesis of BV [66]. For example, a genome-wide associated study that included women from Kenya identified an association of genes encoding for molecules involved in innate immunity, such as Toll-like receptors (TLRs), interleukin-8, TIRAP, MYD88, with specific microorganisms involved in the pathogenesis of BV [67].…”

High-Throughput Sequencing-Based Analysis of Changes in the Vaginal Microbiome during the Disease Course of Patients with Bacterial Vaginosis: A Case–Control Study

“…Bacterial communities undoubtedly exhibit a profound influence on the vaginal microbiome, with different ethnic groups exhibiting a high variability in vaginal microbiota composition. Genomics significantly contributes to the colonization and persistence of Lactobacillus strains but has some limitations [ 12 ]. Although the widespread presence and significance of Lactobacillus have already been widely reported, research progress remains hindered by the complexity and variability of vaginal microbiota.…”