Characterization of the vaginal microbiota of healthy Canadian women through the menstrual cycle

Authors

Ruben Hummelen, Erasmus MC
Arjan P. Vos, Utrecht Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences
Belinda Van'T Land, Utrecht Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences
Klaske Van Norren, Danone Research Centre for Specialised Nutrition
Gregor Reid, Lawson Health Research Institute

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.