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Updated: May 14, 2026
07:57
Protocols for Vaginal Inoculation and Sample Collection in the Experimental Mouse Model of Candida vaginitis
Published on: December 8, 2011
Genetic basis for recurrent vulvo-vaginal candidiasis
Martin Jaeger1, Theo S Plantinga, Leo A B Joosten
1Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
Current Infectious Disease Reports
|January 29, 2013
Summary
Recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC) often occurs without identifiable risk factors, suggesting a significant genetic component. Immunogenetic alterations in innate immunity likely increase susceptibility to Candida albicans infections.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Genetics
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) affects over 75% of women, with 8% experiencing recurrent VVC (RVVC).
- Known risk factors like antibiotic use, diabetes, and pregnancy do not explain most RVVC cases.
- A genetic predisposition is strongly implied in susceptibility to RVVC.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review immunogenetic alterations contributing to susceptibility to vaginal Candida albicans infections.
- To explore the role of genetic factors in the pathophysiology of recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on immunogenetics and VVC/RVVC.
- Analysis of mutations and polymorphisms in innate immune genes.
- Examination of their impact on mucosal immune responses to Candida albicans.
Main Results:
- Specific mutations and polymorphisms in innate immune genes are associated with altered mucosal immune responses.
- These alterations in immune gene function likely increase susceptibility to RVVC.
- The genetic basis for RVVC susceptibility is multifactorial, involving innate immune pathways.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the immunogenetic basis of RVVC is crucial for elucidating disease pathophysiology.
- Identifying genetic factors can inform the development of targeted therapeutic strategies for RVVC.
- Further research into host-pathogen interactions and genetic susceptibility is warranted.
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