Correlation of antimicrobial peptide Human β Defensin-2 with clue cell appearance and the type of culture isolate in women with spontaneous and recurrent pregnancy losses.

Abstract

Human β Defensin-2 (HBD2) is an Antimicrobial peptide (AMP) that serves a dual function in host defense and fertility. On the other hand, a plethora of microbial infectious agents have been associated with an increased risk of spontaneous abortion (SA). This study examined the impact of HBD-2 on women with SA with a particular focus on its relationship with clue cells and other microbial infections. 100 women aged 17-50 with a history of SA participated. We utilized two vaginal swabs. They were cultivated first. The Vitek2 technique was used after biochemical tests identified the isolates. vaginosis diagnosed by Amsel criteria. Serum HBD-2 levels were measured using Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). An association was observed between bacterial vaginosis and SA in the second trimester. HBD-2 levels fell with age. Women with five or more abortions had lower HBD-2 levels (p = 0.034). In cases containing clue cells, HBD-2 averaged 586.0 pg/mL, whereas in cases without clue cells, it decreased (p = 0.007). Gram-negative bacterial infections decreased HBD-2. During fungal infection, HBD-2 levels dropped to 176.1 pg/ml. A significant relationship was observed between HBD2 levels and vaginitis, suggesting its potential as a biomarker and diagnostic tool for reproductive health.