The vaginal microbiome and HIV acquisition risk.

Abstract

Non-optimal vaginal bacteriomes, vulvovaginal candidiasis, and sexually transmitted infections have been associated with increased risk of HIV acquisition in multiple clinical studies. However, there are still major gaps in our understanding of the role of the vaginal microbiome in HIV acquisition risk and non-bacterial components of the vaginal microbiome are not well characterised. Additionally, the functional interactions between the vaginal microbiome and its host that can result in increased risk of HIV acquisition are not fully understood. Better vaginal microbiome diagnostics and therapeutics feasible for implementation in settings with insufficient financial, human, and infrastructural resources are needed, and the effects of vaginal microbiome interventions on HIV risk need to be clinically evaluated. Progress is being made towards effective interventions through advanced omics technologies and improved in-vitro models that more accurately represent the complexity of the female genital tract. However, continued research and investments are needed to address this important women's health issue.