Investigating how bacteria and antibodies interact during HPV infection and cervical dysplasia

Antibody bound bacteria during HPV infection and cervical dysplasia

NIH-funded research Case Western Reserve University · NIH-10867912

This study is looking at how certain bacteria in the vagina might affect the immune system and the risk of cervical issues in women with high-risk HPV infections, helping us understand how these factors could influence HPV clearance and the chances of developing cervical cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCase Western Reserve University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cleveland, United States)
Project IDNIH-10867912 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the relationship between high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) infections and the vaginal microbiome, particularly focusing on how antibodies bind to bacteria in the female reproductive tract. The study aims to compare the types and functions of bacteria present in women with different cervical health statuses, including those with HPV infections and varying degrees of cervical lesions. By analyzing these differences, the research seeks to uncover how these microbial interactions may influence the immune response and progression of cervical dysplasia. This could lead to a better understanding of the factors that affect HPV clearance and cervical cancer risk.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include women who are experiencing HPV infections or have been diagnosed with cervical dysplasia.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have HPV infections or cervical dysplasia may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide insights that lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies for cervical cancer and related conditions.

How similar studies have performed: While the role of the vaginal microbiome in HPV infection is an emerging area of research, this specific approach to studying antibody binding to bacteria in relation to cervical dysplasia is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Cleveland, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.