Vaginal device to simulate bacterial vaginosis in animal models
This project has been secured to protect intellectual property.
Login for More InformationThe team's task is to create a vaginal device to simulate bacterial vaginosis in animal models to study and ultimately, find cure for the diseases.
Project Overview
Vaginal dysbiosis, defined as an abnormal vaginal bacteria environment with increased bacterial diversity, is an important contributor to HIV acquisition, pelvic inflammatory disease, miscarriage, preterm birth, as well as maternal and neonatal disease. Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the corresponding vaginal inflammation caused by overgrowth of Gardnerella vaginalis. There has been a lack of animal models for studying the vaginal microbiota and the inability to form long lasting biofilms in vitro models. The objective of the study is to create a device that facilitates the initial growth of deleterious organisms and eventually establishes a biofilm, an extracellular matrix that forms during growth. This device will enable a more robust preclinical model for studying the bacteria involved, aiding in the search for treatments and prevention of BV and associated diseases.
Team Picture
Contact Information
Team Members
- Caitlin Hielsberg - Team Leader & Communicator
- Henry Plamondon - BSAC & BPAG
- Angela Bae - BWIG
- Mira Baichoo
Advisor and Client
- Prof. Darilis Suarez-Gonzalez - Advisor
- Dr. Megan Fitzpatrick - Client
Related Projects
- Spring 2023: Vaginal device to simulate bacterial vaginosis in animal models
- Fall 2022: Vaginal device to simulate bacterial vaginosis in animal models
- Spring 2022: Vaginal device to simulate bacterial vaginosis in animal models
- Fall 2021: Vaginal device to simulate bacterial vaginosis in animal models