Microbiology & Immunology Publications
Title
Characterization of the vaginal microbiota of healthy Canadian women through the menstrual cycle
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
9-1-2010
Journal
International Reviews of Immunology
Volume
29
Issue
5
First Page
485
Last Page
513
URL with Digital Object Identifier
10.3109/08830185.2010.505310
Abstract
The intestinal immune system is severely affected by HIV and circulating microbial products from the intestinal tract that provide an ongoing source of systemic inflammation and concomitant viral replication. In addition, HIV-infected individuals can have a deregulated immune response that may hamper the anti-viral capacity of the host. Various probiotic organisms and prebiotic agents have been shown to enhance intestinal epithelial barrier functions, reduce inflammation, and support effective Th-1 responses. As these characteristics may benefit HIV patients, this review aims to provide a theoretical framework for the development of probiotic and prebiotic interventions specifically for this population. © 2010 Informa Healthcare USA, Inc.