The human female urogenital microbiome: complexity in normality
File(s)
Accepted version
Author(s)
MacIntyre, DA
Sykes, Lynne
Bennett, Phillip
Type
Journal Article
Abstract
Microbial communities of the urogenital tract have long been recognised to play an important role in disease states. A revolution in methodological approaches is permitting the assessment of complex urogenital tract microbiota–host interactions and the metabolic and protein milieu of the mucosal interface. There is now great potential for significant advances in biomarker discovery and disease risk stratification, and for the elucidation of mechanisms underpinning the microbial community dynamics involved in urogenital tract pathology. Microbiota–host interactions in the female genital tract have a particular significance, because unlike in the male, there is direct communication between the external genitalia, the uterus and the peritoneal cavity. This review examines the microbial community composition at differing sites of the female urogenital tract and its relationship with health and disease. Key factors involved in the modulation of vaginal microbiome stability and structure, such as endocrine, immune and inflammatory pathways, are considered in the context of a woman's life cycle and disease pathogenesis.
Date Issued
2017-11-30
Date Acceptance
2017-09-29
Citation
Emerging Topics in Life Sciences, 2017, 1 (4), pp.363-372
ISSN
2397-8554
Publisher
Portland Press
Start Page
363
End Page
372
Journal / Book Title
Emerging Topics in Life Sciences
Volume
1
Issue
4
Copyright Statement
© 2017 The Author(s). Published by Portland Press Limited on behalf of the Biochemical Society and the Royal Society of Biology
Sponsor
Medical Research Council (MRC)
Medical Research Council (MRC)
Genesis Research Trust
Seattle ChildrensHospital Research Foundation
Grant Number
MR/L009226/1
MR/L009226/1
01054
N/A
Publication Status
Published
Date Publish Online
2017-11-30