Understanding how nutrition affects the vaginal microbiome
Official title: Nutritional landscape and community interactions in the vaginal microbiome
Funded at University of Tennessee Knoxville · NIH-10884899 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how what you eat affects the balance of good bacteria in the vagina, especially focusing on how certain nutrients help helpful bacteria like Lactobacillus grow, which could lead to better understanding and prevention of vaginal health issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tennessee Knoxville NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Knoxville, United States) |
| Project start | July 8, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $365,020 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM150785-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10884899 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with concerns about vaginal health or those experiencing symptoms related to microbial imbalances.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have any vaginal health issues or those who are not interested in understanding the microbiome may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the complex ecosystem of the vaginal microbiome, focusing on how nutritional factors influence the interactions and stability of microbial communities. By examining the availability of nutrients and metals in the vaginal environment, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that allow certain bacteria, particularly Lactobacillus species, to thrive. The research employs interdisciplinary methods to analyze community structures and their responses to changes in nutrient levels, which could lead to better insights into vaginal health and disease prevention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of vaginal health and lead to improved treatments for conditions related to microbial imbalances.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding microbial communities in other body systems, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights, although the specific focus on the vaginal microbiome is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Tennessee Knoxville
Knoxville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Burcham, Lindsey Renae — University of Tennessee Knoxville
- Study coordinator: Burcham, Lindsey Renae
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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.