Translating the Vaginal Microbiome

Recently the potential utility of the vaginal microbiome as a biomarker for endometrial cancer has emerged. In our “Translating the Vaginal Microbiome” study, we are using data from self-sampled vaginal swabs to establish a microbiome signature that distinguishes a malignant from a healthy uterine environment. We will then measure the strength of the signature individually and then combined with cf-DNA from tampons. This study will provide a proof-of-concept in providing clinicians with screening indicators to suggest when menopausal women should receive a diagnostic test such as a biopsy. 

The “Translating the Vaginal Microbiome” Study is a sub-protocol of our RESToRE Study. We are recruiting:

• Postmenopausal women
• With an intact uterus (no hysterectomy)
• Who are not receiving any hormonal therapy, any chemotherapy or any pelvic radiation therapy, and
• Are not experiencing any abnormal bleeding (including spotting)