Impact of Vaginal Microbiota on Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia, Human Papillomavirus Infection, and Cervical Cancer Prevention

Abstract

Cervical cancer ranks as the fourth most prevalent cancer among women globally, with human papilloma virus (HPV) infection and other vaginal infections playing crucial roles in cervical lesion progression. While the body’s immune system can often combat HPV infections, conventional cervical cancer treatments may have cytotoxic effects. Therefore, prioritizing strategies to either decrease HPV infection rates or mitigate existing cervical cancer severity is vital. Certain Lactobacillus strains, prominent in the vaginal microbial community, contribute to vaginal epithelium protection by inhibiting pathogen colonization and producing antibacterial substances like bacteriocins. This review explores how cervicovaginal microbiota, particularly dominated by Lactobacillus species, can lower HPV infection risk, and impede cervical cancer progression. Emphasizing the probiotic impact, the article delves into the potential of vaginal lactobacilli and bacteriocin-producing strains against cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) and cervical cancer, highlighting underlying mechanisms. A healthy vaginal microbiota emerges as pivotal in averting diverse genital tract infections, preventing cervical lesions, and ultimately reducing the risk of cervical cancer.