Karine Dufresne, PhD

I study the microbial mechanisms leading to pathologies or health in women. An optimal microbial community within the vaginal tract correlates with greater reproductive outcomes (better fertility, pregnancy to term, protection against microbial infections) and this correlation is getting more attention recently, however little is known about the real importance of these microbes for the reproductive system. In long-term, a better understanding of the vaginal and uterine microbes will provide new avenues of prevention and therapies to favor the optimal microbiota and improve reproductive health.