Vaginal Microbiome Science Points Toward Smarter Probiotic Therapies for Women
The vaginal microbiome — dominated by Lactobacillus species in healthy women — plays a critical role in preventing infections, reducing inflammation, and supporting reproductive outcomes. This comprehensive review from the University of Antwerp synthesizes observational, clinical, and mechanistic research to explain how microbial community structure influences women's urogenital health. It examines emerging interventions including specific probiotic strains, engineered microbial consortia, and vaginal microbiota transfer. Crucially, the authors identify a key gap: while correlations between microbiome composition and disease are well established, the molecular mechanisms driving these relationships remain poorly understood. Recent discoveries about microbial molecules that modulate immune responses and stabilize communities are now enabling more rational, targeted therapy design. The review outlines research priorities to accelerate translation into clinical practice.