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Author Spotlight: Revolutionizing Research on Vaginal Microbiome Interactions Using a Vaginal Chip
Published on: February 16, 2024
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Maternal microbiome and pregnancy outcomes.
Chelsea Fox1, Kacey Eichelberger2
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of South Carolina-Greenville School of Medicine, Greenville Health Systems, Greenville, South Carolina.
Fertility and Sterility
|October 24, 2015
Summary
Altered microbiomes are linked to preterm birth. The placenta has its own microbiome, suggesting infections may spread through the blood, not just ascend. Microbiota-targeted therapies could improve pregnancy outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive biology
- Microbiome research
- Infectious disease
Background:
- Human microbiome alterations are linked to inflammatory diseases and adverse pregnancy outcomes, including spontaneous preterm birth.
- The placenta harbors a diverse microbiome, even in healthy pregnancies, challenging previous infection theories.
Purpose of the Study:
- To contrast the microbiome in healthy non-gravid and gravid women with alterations seen in spontaneous preterm birth.
- To explore the role of host gene-environment interactions and potential microbiota-targeted therapies in reducing adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on the human microbiome in pregnancy.
- Metagenomic analysis of placental microbiome.
- Comparative analysis of microbial profiles in healthy vs. preterm birth pregnancies.
Main Results:
- The placenta possesses a distinct microbiome.
- Spontaneous preterm birth is associated with specific microbiome alterations.
- Hematogenous infection is a plausible mechanism for placental infection, rather than solely ascending infection.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the pregnancy microbiome is crucial for identifying risks associated with preterm birth.
- Host-environment interactions influence the microbiome's role in pregnancy outcomes.
- Targeted microbiota therapies offer potential for preventing adverse pregnancy outcomes.
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