Gardnerella bacteria are usually found in the vagina of women. It is linked with bacterial vaginosis (BV) and preterm birth- giving birth to a baby too early. But it also can be found in women who do not have any signs of disease. According to a recent study conducted by researchers from North Carolina State University, different kinds of Gardnerella bacteria can live together in the same vaginal microbiome. This research was conducted to find how Gardnerella bacteria affect human health. Â
This research was published in the journal mSystem and mainly focused how Gardnerella bacteria affects women’s health. In this study, researchers used data from three groups such as two random groups of pregnant women and one group with a history of preterm birth. They studied the metagenomic sequences of Gardnerella bacteria from the samples to see if there was a link between particular species of Gardnerella and preterm birth. Â
When researchers observed the collected data, they did not find any direct link. But they found the 14th new species of Gardnerella bacteria as only 13 species were known previously. They also found that many species of Gardnerella live together in the same vagina as they found 2 to 14 species in a single sample. Â
One of the researchers said that they do not have much information about vaginal environment. But when one species of bacteria usually lives somewhere, it does not let other similar bacteria live there. He further added that bacteria can do anything as they have the ability. But this is still strange and the reason behind it is unknown. Â
The researchers are trying to find out that Gardnerella bacteria may increase the risk of preterm birth. But they are not sure about it. So, there is a need for further research. The finding of this study will help healthcare professionals effectively treat bacterial vaginosis. They can also make some effective strategies to avoid preterm birth to reduce the risk of death in infants. Â
Reference Link:Â Â
Hanna L. Berman et al, Gardnerella diversity and ecology in pregnancy and preterm birth, mSystems (2024). Â
