Microbiome and Premature Ovarian Insufficiency

Overview

This study investigates the differences in gut and vaginal microbiota between women with premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) and healthy volunteers. POI refers to the reduction in ovarian function before the age of 40, leading to irregular or absent menstruation and decreased estrogen levels, which can significantly affect women's reproductive and overall health. Recent research has suggested that gut microorganisms may influence the balance of steroid hormones through various metabolic pathways. Additionally, certain vaginal bacteria appear enriched in patients with POI, but whether these microorganisms directly impact ovarian function, and how, remains unclear. This study also seeks to address the underexplored role of fungi within the human microbiome. To comprehensively compare differences in gut and vaginal microbiota, the study will recruit 20 women with POI and 20 healthy controls. Both demographic and clinical information will be collected, along with biological samples including blood, urine, stool, and vaginal swabs.

This project utilizes a case-control study design to systematically compare the microbiome profiles of women diagnosed with premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) and healthy controls. A total of 20 participants with POI and 20 age-matched healthy volunteers will be recruited. Biological samples collected will include blood, midstream urine, stool, and vaginal swab per participant. Blood samples will be obtained by licensed nurses; for menstruating women, samples are drawn during days 2-5 of the most recent cycle, while for those with amenorrhea or menopause, samples are taken at any time for serum hormone testing. Vaginal swab samples are collected by experienced gynecologists, avoiding collection during menstruation. Urine samples are self-collected by volunteers and immediately handed over to research staff for freezing, while stool samples are self-collected and sent to the laboratory staff by low-temperature shipping for prompt processing and storage. Both samples are collected outside of the menstrual period. Comprehensive baseline data will be obtained through questionnaires and electronic medical records by trained interviewers. This includes demographic details, lifestyle factors, reproductive and menstrual history, use of antibiotics and supplements, Kupperman Index (KMI), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HAD), and sleep quality assessments. All biosamples will be handled according to strict aseptic procedures, aliquoted and stored at -80°C for subsequent omics analyses. Data collection and quality control procedures will be overseen and maintained by the research team for long-term storage and analysis.