Zeroing in on vaginal microbes that most increase HIV risk | Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center
Researchers analyzed vaginal swabs from VOICE study participants to identify 14 BV-associated bacterial taxa and 6 inflammatory proteins linked to increased HIV risk. High concentrations of these markers, particularly IP-10, distinguished women at highest risk. The study also found that Lactobacillus crispatus was associated with protection against HIV. Future prevention efforts could involve testing for high-risk bacteria and exploring antibiotic or probiotic treatments.
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Researchers analyzed vaginal swabs from VOICE study participants to identify 14 BV-associated bacterial taxa and 6 inflammatory proteins linked to increased HIV risk. High concentrations of these markers, particularly IP-10, distinguished women at highest risk. The study also found that Lactobacillus crispatus was associated with protection against HIV. Future prevention efforts could involve testing for high-risk bacteria and exploring antibiotic or probiotic treatments.