How vaginal bacteria affect immune cells in the cervix of women at high risk for HIV in sub-Saharan Africa.
The impact of vaginal microbiota on cervical dendritic cells: an observational study of women from sub-Saharan Africa at high risk for HIV acquisition.
This study is looking at how the bacteria in the vagina might affect the immune system in women from sub-Saharan Africa who are at higher risk for HIV, specifically focusing on female sex workers in Mombasa, Kenya, to see if certain bacteria can influence their body's response to infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10810723 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between vaginal microbiota and cervical dendritic cells in women from sub-Saharan Africa who are at high risk for HIV acquisition. The study will collect vaginal swabs and cervical biopsy samples from female sex workers in Mombasa, Kenya, to analyze the types of bacteria present and their potential impact on immune cell behavior. By understanding how certain bacterial profiles may influence cervical inflammation and immune response, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that could contribute to HIV susceptibility.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are female sex workers in sub-Saharan Africa who are at high risk for HIV.
Not a fit: Patients who do not reside in sub-Saharan Africa or who are not at high risk for HIV may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing HIV acquisition by targeting vaginal microbiota.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that vaginal microbiota can influence immune responses, suggesting potential for success in this area of investigation.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- University of Washington — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sabo, Michelle Catherine — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Sabo, Michelle Catherine
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.