Federal Grant Award Summary

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) awarded the University of Maryland, Baltimore a Project Grant totaling $427,625 under the Allergy and Infectious Diseases Research program (CFDA 93.855) on April 6, 2026, with a completion date of March 31, 2028. This research grant funds a comprehensive study titled "Modeling the Vaginal Microbiome: Predicting BV Recurrence and Identifying Preventative Targets," which addresses bacterial vaginosis (BV), the most common form of vaginitis affecting approximately one in three women during their lifetimes. The research leverages whole-genome shotgun metagenomic sequencing and novel metagenomic community state types (mgCSTs) to identify functionally distinct types of BV and develop predictive models for recurrence, which currently occurs in 60% of cases within six months of treatment.

The project delivers scientific research outputs focused on understanding BV pathogenesis, developing improved diagnostic methodologies beyond current Amsel's criteria, and identifying preventative therapeutic targets to address the significant reproductive and obstetric complications associated with the condition, including increased risk of sexually transmitted infections, preterm delivery, and infertility. The research approach is designed to transform BV management through strain composition-based analysis rather than traditional heterogeneous clinical definitions, with preliminary data demonstrating that specific mgCST profiles are highly associated with six-month BV recurrence, thereby establishing a foundation for personalized clinical intervention strategies.