The female intimate microbiome space

Vander Donck, L.; Gehrmann, T.; Ahannach, S.; Van den Bosch, S.; Hiel, M.; Delanghe, L.; Allonsius, C. N.; Cauwenberghs, E.; Spacova, I.; Oerlemans, E.; Wittouck, S.; De Boeck, I.; Donders, G.; Verhoeven, V.; Lebeer, S.

doi:10.1101/2025.02.26.640345

bioRxiv · 10.1101/2025.02.26.640345

The female intimate microbiome space

Vander Donck, L.·Gehrmann, T.·Ahannach, S.·Van den Bosch, S.·Hiel, M.·Delanghe, L.·Allonsius, C. N.·Cauwenberghs, E.·Spacova, I.·Oerlemans, E.·Wittouck, S.·De Boeck, I.·Donders, G.·Verhoeven, V.·Lebeer, S.

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Abstract

Despite its importance in health, the female skin microbiome remains understudied. In this study we explored microbial dispersal across intimate body sites, including the vagina, groins, breast and mouth. Microbial similarity correlated with physical proximity, suggesting dispersal influenced by hygiene or sexual activity. Notably, lactobacilli were unexpectedly abundant on breast skin. These findings highlight the need for research into microbiome dynamics and their implications for womens health.

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Vander Donck, L., Gehrmann, T., Ahannach, S., Van den Bosch, S., Hiel, M., Delanghe, L., Allonsius, C. N., Cauwenberghs, E., Spacova, I., Oerlemans, E., Wittouck, S., De Boeck, I., Donders, G., Verhoeven, V., Lebeer, S.. 2025-02-26. The female intimate microbiome space. https://doi.org/10.1101/2025.02.26.640345

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