Understanding how vaginal bacteria protect against infections
Determining the role of the vaginal microbiota in microbial and immunological resistance to vaginal pathobiont colonization
This study is looking at how the good bacteria in the vagina, especially Lactobacillus, can help protect women, particularly during pregnancy, from harmful infections, and it aims to understand what happens when these good bacteria are missing.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10898812 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of vaginal microbiota in preventing infections caused by harmful bacteria. It focuses on understanding how the presence or absence of specific bacteria, particularly Lactobacillus, affects women's health, especially during pregnancy. By analyzing the microbial communities and immune responses in the vagina, the study aims to identify factors that contribute to vaginal dysbiosis, a condition that can lead to severe complications. The research employs advanced sequencing techniques to profile the vaginal microbiome and its interactions with the immune system.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women experiencing vaginal dysbiosis or recurrent vaginal infections.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have any history of vaginal infections or dysbiosis may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention strategies for vaginal infections, benefiting women's health significantly.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of vaginal microbiota in health, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- Baylor College of Medicine — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mejia, Marlyd Elizabeth — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Mejia, Marlyd Elizabeth
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.