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Review
. 2017 Jun;5(3):10.1128/microbiolspec.bad-0001-2016.
doi: 10.1128/microbiolspec.BAD-0001-2016.

Therapeutic Opportunities in the Vaginal Microbiome

Gregor Reid  1
Affiliations
Review

Therapeutic Opportunities in the Vaginal Microbiome

Gregor Reid. Microbiol Spectr. 2017 Jun.

Abstract

The reproductive tract of females lies at the core of humanity. The immensely complex process that leads to successful reproduction is miraculous yet invariably successful. Microorganisms have always been a cause for concern for their ability to infect this region, yet it is other, nonpathogenic microbial constituents now uncovered by sequencing technologies that offer hope for improving health. The universality of Lactobacillus species being associated with health is the basis for therapeutic opportunities, including through engineered strains. The manipulation of these and other beneficial constituents of the microbiota and their functionality, as well as their metabolites, forms the basis for new diagnostics and interventions. Within 20 years, we should see significant improvements in how cervicovaginal health is restored and maintained, thus providing relief to the countless women who suffer from microbiota-associated disorders.

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Figures

FIGURE 1a
FIGURE 1a
Different mechanisms by which beneficial microbes might influence vaginal health.
FIGURE 1b
FIGURE 1b
Different mechanisms by which beneficial microbes might influence vaginal health.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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