In the U.S, 2.6 million people are infected with T. vaginalis, 156 million worldwide and 25 million pregnant women
In the U.S., it is estimated that T. vaginalis infections contribute to $159,264,000 lifetime costs of treating new HIV infections
Trichomonas vaginalis (T. vaginalis) is a parasite that causes trichomoniasis. It is estimated that 2.6 million people are currently infected with T. vaginalis in the U.S., 156 million worldwide. This parasite can lead to serious health problems, including increased risk of preterm birth, low birth weight, cervical cancer, and HIV. Alarmingly, only one class of drugs is available for treatment, and drug-resistant strains have already been reported.
Our research focuses on understanding how T. vaginalis interacts with human cells and with beneficial bacteria in the female reproductive tract, and how these microbe-microbe interactions contribute to inflammation and disease. This knowledge is critical for developing new treatments and improving health outcomes, especially among populations that are more severely affected.
In a recent SDSU HealthLINK Center-funded project, we found activation of pyroptosis in female reproductive tract cells. Therefore, we are now investigating how inflammasome signaling and pyroptosis are modulated upon the triad interaction of human cells –T. vaginallis– and cervicovaginal bacteria.
T. vaginalis triggers strong immune responses in cervical and vaginal cells, including inflammasome signaling and a type of inflammatory cell death called pyroptosis.
Preliminary studies show that T. vaginalis can kill protective bacteria such as L. crispatus and L. iners, this may be an underlying factor for epidemiological findings of altered cervicovaginal microbiomes in T. vaginalis-infected women.
These findings suggest that infection creates inflammation and a microbiome imbalance, worsening health outcomes and potentially increasing a women’s susceptibility to co-infections.
Study how T. vaginalis kills beneficial bacteria and how this process affects reproductive health.
Understand the role of pyroptosis in driving inflammation and antibacterial effects during infection.
Explore whether blocking pyroptosis or parasite activity could lead to new treatments that protect beneficial bacteria and reduce inflammation.
Increasing knowledge about a neglected parasitic infection of the U.S.
Trichomoniasis is often asymptomatic and thus likely goes undiagnosed and underreported. Understanding how this infection works will help reduce complications like preterm birth and increased HIV risk.
With only one drug group available and resistance already emerging, this research could pave the way for new therapies.
Healthy bacteria play a key role in preventing infections. Our work aims to help preserve or boost this natural defense system.
Findings could inform strategies for other infections and improve reproductive health for millions worldwide.
Assistant Professor, Department of Biology
