Microbiome–Maternal Tract Interactions in Women with Recurrent Implantation Failure

Microorganisms play an important role in regulating various biological processes in our bodies. In women, abnormal changes in the reproductive tract microbiome are associated with various gynecological diseases and infertility. Recent studies suggest that patients with recurrent implantation failure...

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Main Authors: Manish Kumar, Yang Yan, Luhan Jiang, Ching-Ho Sze, Suranga P. Kodithuwakku, William S. B. Yeung, Kai-Fai Lee
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 2025-04-01
Series:Microorganisms
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Online Access:https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2607/13/4/844
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Summary:Microorganisms play an important role in regulating various biological processes in our bodies. In women, abnormal changes in the reproductive tract microbiome are associated with various gynecological diseases and infertility. Recent studies suggest that patients with recurrent implantation failure (RIF) have a reduced genus <i>Lactobacillus</i> population, a predominant bacterial species in the vagina and uterus that protects the reproductive tract from pathogenic bacterial growth via the production of various metabolites (e.g., lactic acid, bacteriocin, and H<sub>2</sub>O<sub>2</sub>). Moreover, a higher percentage of pathogenic bacteria genera, including <i>Atopobium</i>, <i>Gardnerella</i>, <i>Prevotella</i>, <i>Pseudomonas</i>, and <i>Streptococcus</i>, was found in the uterus of RIF patients. This review aimed to examine the role of pathogenic bacteria in RIF, determine the factors altering the endometrial microbiome, and assess the impact of the microbiome on embryo implantation in RIF. Several factors can influence microbial balance, including the impact of extrinsic elements such as semen and antibiotics, which can lead to dysbiosis in the female reproductive tract and affect implantation. Additionally, probiotics such as <i>Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus</i> were reported to have clinical potential in RIF patients. Future studies are needed to develop targeted probiotic therapies to restore microbial balance and enhance fertility outcomes. Research should also focus on understanding the mechanisms by which microorganisms generate metabolites to suppress pathogenic bacteria for embryo implantation. Identifying these interactions may contribute to innovative microbiome-based interventions for reproductive health.
ISSN:2076-2607