Understanding how certain bacteria interact before bacterial vaginosis occurs
Microbial Interactions between Gardnerella, Prevotella, and Atopobium Prior to Incident Bacterial Vaginosis
This study is looking at how certain bacteria might work together to cause bacterial vaginosis (BV) in women, and by collecting samples over time, it hopes to find out what changes happen before BV occurs, which could help improve understanding and treatment of this common condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10767855 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the interactions between specific bacteria, particularly Gardnerella, Prevotella, and Atopobium, that may lead to bacterial vaginosis (BV), a common vaginal condition. By collecting vaginal samples from women with normal flora over time, the study aims to identify changes in the bacterial community that precede the onset of BV. The approach involves analyzing these samples to understand how these bacteria form biofilms and alter each other's behavior, which could provide insights into the causes of BV and its recurrence. Patients participating in this research will contribute to a better understanding of their condition and potential future treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women with normal vaginal flora who are at risk of developing bacterial vaginosis.
Not a fit: Patients who already have bacterial vaginosis or those with other underlying vaginal conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies for bacterial vaginosis, reducing recurrence rates and associated complications.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding microbial interactions can lead to breakthroughs in managing bacterial infections, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
Birmingham, United States
- University of Alabama at Birmingham — Birmingham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Muzny, Christina a — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Muzny, Christina a
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.