Introduction
The vagina harbours its own complex microbial community where bacteria, viruses and fungi collectively form the vaginal microbiome. Temporal variations in vaginal microbiota are mainly related to the menstrual cycle and sexual activity, but also drugs and lifestyle can affect the microbial composition.
A healthy female vaginal microbiome is crucial for health, as a dysbiotic community has been associated with an increased risk of several different diseases including sexually transmitted infections, fungal infections and preterm birth.
Vaginal Microbiome Research Applications
An understanding of the vaginal microbiome can assist with research into varied fields, including:
- Research towards improved diagnostic tools and treatments for women who are at risk of vaginal imbalances or sexually acquired infections.
- Research into how the menopause influences the vaginal microbiome.
- Research into how the vaginal microbiome influences or impacts pregnancy and birth
Our Services for Vaginal Microbiome Research
At Clinical Microbiomics we have vast experience in wide range of vaginal microbiome projects. Although overall diversity of the vaginal microbiome is seen as rather low, the range of Lactobacillus species and strain variants require a high technical resolution for profiling.
Sample Preparation - We offer DNA extraction for all types of vaginal microbiome projects, performed under highly controlled and traceable conditions in our advanced, Copenhagen-based, ISO17025 certified laboratory.
Sequencing - We offer Illumina-based 16S rDNA amplicon sequencing and shotgun metagenomics of vaginal samples.
16S rDNA amplicon sequencing provides insights into the taxonomical composition of the microbiome (genus/species resolution), whereas shotgun metagenomics powered by our MGS bioinformatics platform provides detailed characterization with the highest taxonomical (species/strain) and functional resolution (genes) possible.
Data Analysis – We generate high quality vaginal microbiome data and help you translate this into taxonomical and functional insight. Our data analysis service is powered by our MGS bioinformatics platform providing detailed characterization with the highest taxonomical (species/strain) and functional resolution (genes) possible.
Timo Kern, PhD, Director of Scientific Operations
If you would like to learn more about our microbiome analysis services for the vaginal microbiome or discuss your study with a member of our science team, please get in touch.