Grant: Project Grant

The immune system of the lower female genital tract plays an important role in maintaining reproductive health, but can also contribute to disease. While a number of biological and genetic factors can control the immune system, bacteria that live in the vagina are important players in regulating the immune system, and at times, can also lead to disease. In this research proposal, we will focus on specific bacteria that are linked to inflammatory disease in the lower female genital tract, and identify the immune cells that further exacerbate this disease process. We will use animal disease model to better understand how this inflammatory process increases HIV and HPV infection. The overall goal is to define why some individuals are more prone to sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and to test drug candidates that can lower acquisition risk.