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LL-37

Cathelicidin, hCAP-18, FALL-39, CAP-18

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Studies 2230
Trials 95
Completed OBSERVATIONAL NCT01318304

Vaginal Innate Immunity in Normal and HIV-Infected Women

View on ClinicalTrials.gov Updated Dec 15, 2025

Brief Summary

The innate immunity of the vaginal tract provides first-line defense from abnormal microorganisms or overgrowth of common organisms, such as Candida species or Gardnerella vaginalis. It is unclear from the current available literature whether the rate of vaginal infection increases or decreases in frequency during pregnancy when compared to the non-pregnant state, but this may be predicted by shifts in vaginal innate immunity. Vaginal infections are important players in HIV disease, potentially increasing the risk of viral transmission. In addition, these infections may activate inflammatory markers in the reproductive tract and increase the risk of premature delivery or other negative pregnancy outcomes. The vaginal innate immune system has not been well characterized in pregnant women, or in women with HIV infection. The study of how this system changes in pregnancy and HIV infection will provide essential knowledge for further study of vaginal mucosal protection. The investigators study is an observational study designed to compare levels of vaginal innate immunity markers in women based on a) pregnancy status and b) HIV infection status. Comparisons will be made between pregnant and non- pregnant women and between HIV positive and HIV negative women. The investigators hypothesize that there will be significant differences in levels of innate immunity between the groups.

Interventions

Name: Vaginal lavage specimen
Type: OTHER
Description: Collection of 3cc of saline used in the vagina to collect innate immunity markers

Primary Outcomes

Measure: To compare the vaginal concentrations innate immunity markers (alpha / beta interferons, defensin, cathelicidin, lysozyme, lactoferrin, and SLPI) in pregnant and non-pregnant women who are HIV-negative.
TimeFrame: up to 2 clinic visits in 10 weeks
Description: Investigators will quantify the major vaginal innate immunity markers, including type 1 (alpha and beta) interferons, defensins, cathelicidins, lysozyme and lactoferrin, and secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI). These antimicrobial host defense peptides are produced by genital tract mucosal epithelial cells and associated immune cells, and have a wide range of antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal and antiparasitic activities and modes of action. We hypothesize that changes in innate immunity markers take place during pregnancy, thereby changing native vaginal immunity.

Trial Information

NCT ID

NCT01318304

Status

Completed

Study Type

OBSERVATIONAL

Sponsor

Boston Medical Center

Last Updated

December 15, 2025