The role of bacterial vaginosis and trichomonas in HIV transmission across the female genital tract

Curr HIV Res. 2012 Apr;10(3):202-10. doi: 10.2174/157016212800618165.

Abstract

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) and Trichomonas vaginalis (TV) infections are both very common and are associated with increased risk of sexual transmission of HIV. There are several mechanisms by which BV and TV could affect susceptibility including inducing pro-inflammatory cytokines and disrupting mucosal barrier function. This review highlights recent advances in our understanding of how these genital conditions lead to an increased risk of HIV infection in women.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / immunology*
  • Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / transmission*
  • Animals
  • Disease Susceptibility
  • Female
  • HIV-1 / pathogenicity
  • Humans
  • Immunity, Innate
  • Lactobacillus / pathogenicity*
  • Macaca
  • Risk Factors
  • Simian Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / immunology*
  • Simian Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / transmission
  • Trichomonas Vaginitis / immunology*
  • Trichomonas Vaginitis / microbiology
  • Trichomonas Vaginitis / veterinary
  • Trichomonas vaginalis / pathogenicity*
  • Vaginosis, Bacterial / immunology*
  • Vaginosis, Bacterial / microbiology
  • Vaginosis, Bacterial / veterinary