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Updated: Mar 21, 2026

Models of Murine Vaginal Colonization by Anaerobically Grown Bacteria
Published on: May 25, 2022
Baboon vaginal microbial flora
Jael A Obiero1, Kenneth K Waititu1, Isaac Mulei2
1Reproductive Health and Biology, Institute of Primate Research, Nairobi, Kenya.
Background:
Knowledge of the composition of vaginal microbial ecosystem is essential for understanding the etiology, prevention, and treatment of vaginal diseases. A baboon model has been used to provide detailed understanding of reproductive physiology and immunology applicable to women. However, little is known about the composition of its vaginal microbial ecosystem.
Methods:
Gram stain and Nugent scores were used for assessment of baboon vaginal microbial flora. Biochemical identification and analysis of isolates were performed using the api(®) kits and identification software.
Results:
Species of Lactobacilli, Staphylococci, Clostridia, Bacilli, Corynebacteria, Gram-negative rods, other Gram-positive rods, cocci and Candida, were isolated. Healthy vaginal microbiota consisted mainly of lactobacillus morphotypes. Animals with high Nugent scores had increased number of Gram-positive cocci and variable rods, with increased number of Gram-negative morphotypes.
Conclusions:
The baboon vaginal microbiota is heterogeneous in terms of species composition and is typified by a scarcity of lactobacilli.
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