Dynamic changes and functional analysis of the vaginal microbial communities in reproductively dysfunctional giant pandas.

Vaginal dysbiosis with Klebsiella enrichment correlates with reproductive dysfunction in giant pandas.

This study examined the relationship between reproductive dysfunction and vaginal microbiota in 15 captive giant pandas using 16S rDNA sequencing and biochemical analysis. Reproductively dysfunctional pandas (n=6) demonstrated systemic metabolic disturbances including reduced serum albumin, elevated creatine kinase, increased white blood cell counts, and altered immune cell populations. Vaginal microbiota analysis revealed that dysfunctional pandas had significantly higher microbial richness and distinct community structure compared to healthy controls, characterized by enrichment of opportunistic pathogens (Bifidobacterium, Klebsiella) and depletion of health-associated genera (Helcococcus, Peptoniphilus). Functional annotation identified dysregulated carbohydrate/pyruvate metabolism and ABC transporter pathways. Elevated Klebsiella abundance appeared particularly significant as a microecological marker. These findings suggest reproductive dysfunction in giant pandas correlates with distinctive vaginal microbiota alterations and metabolic pathway dysregulation. The study provides important microecological insights into reproductive pathogenesis in this endangered species and identifies potential microbial biomarkers for diagnosis and intervention.

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