Understanding how the vaginal microbiome affects cervical health in different racial groups
Official title: Elucidating the Role of the Vaginal Microbiome in Racial Disparities in Precancerous Cervical Lesions: A Multi-level Study
Funded at Virginia Commonwealth University · NIH-10785528 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the bacteria in the vagina might be linked to precancerous changes in the cervix, especially for Black women who face higher risks, to help improve health outcomes and reduce the need for more invasive treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richmond, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $183,708 |
| NIH project number | 1K01CA285946-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10785528 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include women diagnosed with HPV infections or precancerous cervical lesions, especially those from Black populations.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have HPV infections or precancerous lesions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between the vaginal microbiome and the occurrence of precancerous cervical lesions, particularly focusing on racial disparities. It aims to understand why Black women experience higher rates of persistent HPV infections and cervical cancer compared to white women. The study will analyze the composition of the vaginal microbiome in women with and without precancerous lesions, exploring how environmental factors may influence these differences. By identifying the role of the vaginal microbiome, the research seeks to improve patient outcomes and reduce the need for invasive procedures.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better screening and treatment strategies for cervical health, particularly for Black women.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that the vaginal microbiome plays a significant role in HPV infection and cervical health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tossas, Katherine Y — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Tossas, Katherine Y
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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.