Vaginal microbiota and gynecological cancers: a complex and evolving relationship

Abstract

The vagina hosts a community of microorganisms known as the vaginal microbiota. This community is relatively stable and straightforward, with Lactobacillus species being the most dominant members. The vaginal microbiota has various functions that are essential for maintaining human health and balance. For example, it can metabolise dietary nutrients, produce growth factors, communicate with other bacteria, modulate the immune system, and prevent the invasion of harmful pathogens. When the vaginal microbiota is disrupted, it can lead to diseases and infections. The observed disturbance is distinguished by a reduction in the prevalence of Lactobacillus and a concurrent rise in the number of other bacterial species that exhibit a higher tolerance to low oxygen levels. Gynecologic cancers are a group of cancers that affect the female reproductive organs and tissues, such as the ovaries, uterus, cervix, vagina, vulva, and endometrium. These cancers are a major global health problem for women. Understanding the complex interactions between the host and the vaginal microorganisms may provide new insights into the prevention and treatment of gynecologic cancers. This could improve the quality of life and health outcomes for women.

Keywords: Cervical cancer; Endometrial cancer; Gynecological cancers; Microbiome; Microbiota; Ovarian cancer; Vaginal cancer; Vulvar cancer.

Fig. 1

Alteration of the female vaginal microbiota throughout several life phases

Fig. 2

Alteration of the female vaginal microbiota throughout gynecological cancers