Author ORCID Identifier
https://orcid.org/0009-0004-4373-2698
Defense Date
2024
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science
Department
Microbiology & Immunology
First Advisor
Eun Lee
Second Advisor
Kimberly Jefferson
Third Advisor
John Bigbee
Abstract
Sneathia vaginalis (Sv) is a gram-negative anaerobic bacterium associated with adverse reproductive outcomes. Sv can traverse the fetal membrane and damage epithelial cells in vitro by producing a pore-forming cytotoxin, cytopathogenic toxin A (CptA). To further understand the transition of Sv from normal flora to a pathogen, an animal in vivo model needs to be created to observe the preliminary ascending infection before we begin to study the effects on pregnancy. Experimentation was conducted to optimize mouse breed, bacteria administration methods, and other variables that arise when working in vivo. The C57BL/6 mouse strain displayed the most consistent results with a double Sv inoculation and supplementation from human low-density lipoprotein (LDL). Variations in the uterine horn morphology and detectable Sv in the murine reproductive tract were associated with the mouse estrous cycle, which led to more informed decisions in future experimental designs. This mouse model will allow further understanding of the Sv-host interaction within the vaginal environment and create a controlled way of studying the effects of Sv during pregnancy.
Rights
© Kailyn Turcios-Gonzalez
Is Part Of
VCU University Archives
Is Part Of
VCU Theses and Dissertations
Date of Submission
5-9-2024
Included in
Bacterial Infections and Mycoses Commons, Female Urogenital Diseases and Pregnancy Complications Commons