NIH-funded research R21 grant

Investigating the vaginal microbiome in women with and without symptoms of bacterial vaginosis

Official title: The vaginal microenvironment in asymptomatic versus symptomatic bacterial vaginosis

Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10782002 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at the differences in the vaginal bacteria of women with bacterial vaginosis, whether they have symptoms or not, to see how it might affect their risk of sexually transmitted infections and HIV, and it hopes to find better ways to manage this condition, so if you're interested, you might be asked to share some samples and health information to help out.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project startMarch 1, 2023
Project endFebruary 28, 2026
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$203,892
NIH project number5R21AI168984-02
Project IDNIH-10782002 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for participation include women diagnosed with bacterial vaginosis, both symptomatic and asymptomatic.

Less likely to help

Patients who do not have bacterial vaginosis or those with other unrelated vaginal conditions may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research explores the differences in the vaginal microbiome between women who have bacterial vaginosis (BV) but do not show symptoms and those who do. It aims to understand the risks associated with asymptomatic BV, particularly its link to sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV. By analyzing the microbiota composition and the effectiveness of current treatments, the study seeks to provide insights that could lead to better management strategies for both symptomatic and asymptomatic cases. Patients may be asked to participate by providing samples and health information to help researchers gather data on this condition.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for women with asymptomatic bacterial vaginosis, potentially reducing the risk of STIs and HIV.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding and treating bacterial vaginosis, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

  • Johns Hopkins University
    Baltimore, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Tuddenham, Susan Anne — Johns Hopkins University
  • Study coordinator: Tuddenham, Susan Anne

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.