Lactic acid in the vaginal milieu modulates the <i>Candida</i>-host interaction.

ABSTRACT: Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is one of the most common infections caused by Candida albicans. VVC is characterized by an inadequate hyperinflammatory response and clinical symptoms associated with Candida colonization of the vaginal mucosa. Compared to other host niches in which C. albicans can cause infection, the vaginal environment is extremely rich in lactic acid that is produced by the vaginal microbiota. We examined how lactic acid abundance in the vaginal niche impacts the interaction between C. albicans and the human immune system using an in vitro culture in vaginal simulative medium (VSM). The presence of lactic acid in VSM (VSM+LA) increased C. albicans proliferation, hyphal length, and its ability to cause damage during subsequent inf

SUBMITTER: Rosati D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11760238 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature