Female Genital Tract Immunological Defense Mechanisms

Female Genital Tract Immunological Defense Mechanisms

The lower portion of the female genital tract is exposed to numerous microorganisms from environmental contact, contamination from the rectum and fingers, during sexual activity, soiled underclothing, etc. In addition, colonization of the ‘vag’ with potentially pathogenic microorganisms is universal. Immune defense mechanisms have evolved to protect women from developing clinical infections as a result of this microbial onslaught. Until recently, studies of female genital tract immunity were limited for the most part to a description of antibody concentrations and isotypes. In the past several years, however, spurred in part by the need to understand factors involved in the

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