Global expression of molecular transporters in the human vaginal tract: implications for HIV chemoprophylaxis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Pre-exposure chemoprophylaxis (PrECP) using antiretroviral agents is a promising strategy for the prevention of sexual HIV transmission in women. Molecular transporters in the human vaginal tract (VT) may play a pivotal role in determining drug disposition and, consequently, pharmacodynamic outcomes in these efforts. Little is known, however, on the expression of these transporters in vaginal tissues, representing a critical knowledge gap.

Methodology/principal findings

Our study analyzed the genome-wide transcriptome in 44 vaginal tissue samples from 6 reproductive-age women undergoing gynecologic surgeries. The analysis revealed that, unexpectedly, a large number (43%) of gene isoforms corresponding to membrane transporters were over-expressed (above the median

SUBMITTER: Gunawardana M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3797116 | biostudies-literature | 2013

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature