Microbiome-Maternal Tract Interactions in Women with Recurrent Implantation Failure

Area of Science:

• Reproductive biology
• Microbiome research
• Gynecology

Background:

• The reproductive tract microbiome plays a crucial role in women's health.
• Imbalances in the vaginal and uterine microbiome are associated with gynecological diseases and infertility.
• Recurrent implantation failure (RIF) is characterized by a reduced population of beneficial *Lactobacillus* species and an increase in pathogenic bacteria.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role of pathogenic bacteria in RIF.
• To identify factors that alter the endometrial microbiome.
• To assess the impact of the microbiome on embryo implantation in RIF patients.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on the reproductive tract microbiome and RIF.
• Analysis of factors influencing microbial balance, including extrinsic elements like semen and antibiotics.
• Evaluation of the potential of probiotics in managing RIF.

Main Results:

• RIF patients exhibit a decreased abundance of *Lactobacillus* and an increased presence of pathogenic genera (*Atopobium*, *Gardnerella*, *Prevotella*, *Pseudomonas*, *Streptococcus*).
• Extrinsic factors such as semen and antibiotics can disrupt the reproductive tract microbiome, leading to dysbiosis and affecting implantation.
• *Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus* shows potential as a probiotic intervention for RIF.

Conclusions:

• Pathogenic bacteria in the endometrial microbiome contribute to RIF.
• Targeted probiotic therapies are needed to restore microbial balance and improve fertility.
• Further research into microbial metabolite mechanisms can lead to innovative microbiome-based interventions for reproductive health.