Pilot Study on Next-Generation Sequencing Analysis of Vaginal Microbiota in Clinically Infertile Patients Treated with Probiotics

Author:

Lin Li-Te123ORCID,Li Chia-Jung12,Wu Chia-Chun1,Pan Li-Fei45,Tsui Kuan-Hao12367ORCID

Affiliation:

1. Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung 813, Taiwan

2. Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung 804, Taiwan

3. Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei 112, Taiwan

4. Department of General Affair Office, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung 813, Taiwan

5. College of Finance and Banking, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung 824, Taiwan

6. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 112, Taiwan

7. Department of Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 114, Taiwan

Abstract

Background: In this investigation, we aimed to understand the influence of oral probiotic supplementation on the vaginal microbiota of women preparing for assisted reproductive technology (ART) procedures. Given the importance of a healthy microbiome for reproductive success, this study sought to explore how probiotics might alter the bacterial composition in the vaginal environment. Methods: We recruited a cohort of 30 women, averaging 37 years of age (ranging from 31 to 43 years), who were scheduled to undergo ART. Using 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) sequencing, we meticulously analyzed the vaginal microbiota composition before and after the administration of oral probiotic supplements. Results: Our analysis identified 17 distinct microorganisms, including 8 species of Lactobacillus. Following probiotic supplementation, we observed subtle yet notable changes in the vaginal microbiota of some participants. Specifically, there was a decrease in Gardnerella abundance by approximately 20%, and increases in Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium by 10% and 15%, respectively. Additionally, we noted a significant reduction in the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes (F/B) ratio in the probiotic group, indicating potential shifts in the overall bacterial composition. Conclusions: These preliminary findings suggest that oral probiotic supplementation can induce significant changes in the vaginal microbiota of middle-aged women undergoing ART, potentially improving their overall bacterial profile. Future studies should consider a larger sample size and a narrower age range to validate these results. Investigating factors related to female hormone production could also provide deeper insights. Understanding the effects of probiotics on the vaginal microbiota in patients with ovarian aging may lead to personalized interventions and better reproductive outcomes.

Funder

Ministry of Science Technology

Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital

Publisher

MDPI AG

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