Molecular Analysis of Vaginal Microbiome in Women of Reproductive Age

Abstract

Aim: Molecular analysis of the vaginal microbiome (VM) in terms of types of Lactobacilli and their role. Material and methods: Ninety-three women of reproductive age were included in a prospective cross-sectional study. A vaginal examination and collection of two vaginal swabs, first for Nugent score and second for molecular identification of Lactobacillus spp. and other bacteria were performed. Identification was done by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of 16S rRNK genes and sequencing for Lactobacillus types. Results: Twenty-two species of Lactobacillus have been identified, 13 types in all 51 participants of the normal flora (NF) group, 19 types in 95.6% intermediate group (IM) (n = 23), and only seven in 68.4% of women in bacterial vaginosis (BV) (n = 19) group. Three types were the most common: Lactobacillus iners, almost equally present in all three groups, predominantly as a single type and in combination with other pathogenic bacteria (Gardnerella vaginalis and two types of Mycoplasmataceae), and Lactobacillus crispatus and Lactobacillus casei, both significantly associated with NF. L. crispatus was more abundant in the secretory vs proliferative phase of menstrual cycle. Conclusion: Colonization with any Lactobacillus and especially L. crispatus and L. casei, is generally significantly associated with NF. L. iners is associated with dysbiosis. The molecular analysis of the VM may significantly participate in developing strategies for prevention and treatment of genital infections.