The investigation of endometrial microbiota and its possible role in IVF success

The endometrial microbiota refers to the collection of microorganisms, mainly bacteria, that reside in the endometrial lining of the uterus. This microbiota is a relatively new area of research, and its composition is not yet fully understood. Disruptions in the endometrial microbiota have been associated with various reproductive disorders, including endometriosis, infertility, and pregnancy complications. Our study aimed to determine endometrial microbiota composition and its possible role in IVF success. Forty women with unexplained female infertility were included in the investigation. DNA was isolated from the rinse solution of the tips of embryo transfer catheters used during the IVF procedure. Possible cervical and vaginal contamination was avoided. Shotgun metagenomic sequencing was carried out to identify bacterial and viral members of endometrial microbiota. With the help of bioinformatic analysis, the presence of certain bacteria and viruses in the uterus could be demonstrated reliably.