Our research
Factors including the genital microbiome, hormonal contraceptive use and sexually transmitted infections affect the susceptibility to HIV infection as demonstrated in epidemiological and experimental studies. The molecular mechanisms behind these findings are however poorly defined. Our group aims to study how the human female genital tract is affected by these factors by assessing mucosal samples from cohorts of Swedish and Kenyan women.
The samples are defined by microbiome composition, expression of epithelial junction proteins, distribution and density of HIV receptors and immune factors by using gene sequencing, in situ imaging analysis, tissue explants models as well as protein and transcriptional profiling. By exploring some of the underlying mechanisms for a dysfunctional mucosal barrier we aim to contribute to the development of topical prophylactic compounds.
Picture above: Alexandra Ã…hlberg, Annelie Tjernlund, Kristina Broliden, Gabriella Edfeldt, Fariba Foroogh, Vilde Kaldhusdal, Frideborg Bradley. Photo: Stefan Zimmerman.