The vaginal microbiome in health and disease

Abstract

Infections of the vaginal tract result from perturbations in the complex interactions between the microbiome and the host vaginal ecosystem. Recent data have linked specific vaginal microbes and urogenital infection with preterm birth. Here we discuss how next-generation sequencing-based approaches to study the vaginal microbiome will be important for defining what constitutes an imbalance of the microbiome and the associated host conditions that lead to subsequent infection and disease states. These studies will provide clinicians with reliable diagnostic tools and treatments for women who are at increased risk for vaginal infections, preterm birth, HIV and other sexually acquired diseases, and will provide opportunities for intervention.

Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

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A) Prematurity was the second leading cause of infant death in the United States in 2006 and accounted for 31.3% of all infant deaths. B) Infant deaths due to prematurity per 100,000 live births continues to be a significant problem in the United States and even increased from 1996-2006. (www.marchofdimes.com/peristats)

Figure

A) Prematurity was the second leading cause of infant death in the United States in 2006 and accounted for 31.3% of all infant deaths. B) Infant deaths due to prematurity per 100,000 live births continues to be a significant problem in the United States and even increased from 1996-2006. (www.marchofdimes.com/peristats)