Host–Pathogen Interactions during Female Genital Tract Infections. Issue 12 (December 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Pekmezovic, Marina; Mogavero, Selene; Naglik, Julian R.; Hube, Bernhard
• Is Part Of: Trends in microbiology. Volume 27:Issue 12(2019)
• Page Start: 982
• Page End: 996
• Publication Date: 2019-12
• Subjects: vaginosis -- cervicitis -- virulence -- bacteria -- Candida -- Trichomonas vaginalis; Microbiology -- Periodicals; Infection -- Periodicals; Virulence (Microbiology) -- Periodicals; Infection -- Periodicals; Microbiology -- Periodicals; Virulence -- Periodicals; Microbiologie -- Périodiques; Infection -- Périodiques; Virulence (Microbiologie) -- Périodiques; Infection; Microbiology; Virulence (Microbiology); 579
• DOI: 10.1016/j.tim.2019.07.006
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0966-842X

Abstract

Abstract : Dysbiosis in the female genital tract (FGT) is characterized by the overgrowth of pathogenic bacterial, fungal, or protozoan members of the microbiota, leading to symptomatic or asymptomatic infections. In this review, we discuss recent advances in studies dealing with molecular mechanisms of pathogenicity factors of Gardnerella vaginalis, Mycoplasma genitalium, Mycoplasma hominis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Streptococcus agalactiae, Chlamydia trachomatis, Trichomonas vaginalis, and Candida spp., as well as their interactions with the host and microbiota in the various niches of the FGT. Taking a holistic approach to identifying fundamental commonalities and differences during these infections could help us to better understand reproductive tract health and improve current prevention and treatment strategies. Highlights: The microbiota of the FGT consists of a complex population of aerobic and anaerobic microorganisms, typically dominated by Lactobacillus spp. However, lactobacilli can be outnumbered by pathogenic microbial members causing an infection of the vagina or cervix. The causative agents of infection can be bacteria, yeasts, or protozoa, thus presenting a very diverse group of pathogens that have developed different mechanisms to adapt to a highly challenging environmental milieu. Despite their evolutionary distance, these agents share similar strategies of adhesion and biofilm formation, invasion into host cells, nutrient acquisition, evasion of host defenses, as well as secretion of multiple factors required for survival and epithelial damage.