Free glycogen in vaginal fluids is associated with Lactobacillus colonization and low vaginal pH.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

Lactobacillus dominates the lower genital tract microbiota of many women, producing a low vaginal pH, and is important for healthy pregnancy outcomes and protection against several sexually transmitted pathogens. Yet, factors that promote Lactobacillus remain poorly understood. We hypothesized that the amount of free glycogen in the lumen of the lower genital tract is an important determinant of Lactobacillus colonization and a low vaginal pH.

Methods

Free glycogen in lavage samples was quantified. Pyrosequencing of the 16S rRNA gene was used to identify microbiota from 21 African American women collected over 8-11 years.

Results

Free glycogen levels varied greatly between women and even in the same woman. Samples with the highest free glycogen had a corresp

SUBMITTER: Mirmonsef P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4102502 | biostudies-literature | 2014

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature