Age-specific vaginal microecological dysbiosis associated with HPV infection: a large-scale cross-sectional study with targeted functional sequencing validation.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

The vaginal microecological parameters as a critical immune barrier, yet their age-dependent interaction with Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection remains poorly understood. To characterize age-dependent vaginal microbiota composition and function across the female lifespan, and to evaluate the selective impact of HPV infection on microecological stability and infectious risk.

Methods

A total of 23,672 women were stratified into four age groups (18-34, 35-44, 45-55, and >55 years). Vaginal microecology was evaluated using Gram-staining, pH, hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), leukocyte esterase, and sialidase assays. HPV genotyping was performed in 2,116 women. Statistical analysis employed univariate screening, LASSO regression for variable selection, an

SUBMITTER: Wang Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12868268 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature