NextGenPCR™ Rocks Lowlands!

Viva La Vaginoom: Lowlands 2024 Meets Science

Lowlands as a laboratory

On August 16, 17, and 18, Lowlands was not just a festival but also a place where science and music converged. In collaboration with the National Science Agenda, BKB, and New Scientist, Lowlands Science opened its doors once again. Festival-goers were introduced to science in a whole new way, while researchers collected valuable data from a diverse group of participants.

Viva La Vaginoom

As part of a citizen science initiative, the Center of Expertise Perspective in Health from Avans University of Applied Sciences took the spotlight with the unique project ‘Viva La Vaginoom’. This groundbreaking initiative invited participants to investigate their own vaginal microbiome. Participants took their own vaginal swabs, which were then analyzed in collaboration with researchers from Avans University of Applied Sciences and Molecular Biology Systems. The focus was on identifying Lactobacillus Crispatus, a bacterium that may improve vaginal health.

Fast Results with NextGenPCR™

Normally, such research would take about six to seven hours, but thanks to the rapid lab method of NextGenPCR™, the vaginal microbiome could be mapped within three hours. This quick turnaround allowed many participants to get involved during the festival and receive immediate insights into their health.

Talking About Vaginal Health

There is still a significant taboo surrounding discussions of vaginal health, something this project aims to change. Associate Professor Eefje Schrauwen explains: “A healthy vaginal flora is essential for preventing infections and promoting overall well-being. With this field lab at Lowlands, we hope to spark conversations about vaginal health and raise awareness.”

Citizen Science: Participants as Co-Researchers

Festival-goers with vaginas could not only participate but also act as co-researchers. This concept of citizen science brings research closer to the people it concerns. “Research should be as much a part of society as possible, not standing on the sidelines,” says Schrauwen. The involvement of participants not only provided valuable data but also contributed to greater awareness of vaginal health.

Improving Vaginal Health

The data collected at Lowlands is crucial for the research into Lactobacillus crispatus, a bacterium that offers potential for preventing infections and improving overall vaginal health. This research is part of a larger project in collaboration with the ‘From Women For Women’ consortium, initiated by Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam and supported by Yoni, a company focused on sustainable and healthy vaginal products.

Collaboration

Viva La Vaginoom is a collaboration between the Center of Expertise Perspective in Health from Avans University of Applied Sciences, the ‘From Women For Women’ consortium, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Molecular Biology Systems (NextGenPCR), and is made possible by Lowlands and the National Science Agenda.

Relive the Experience!

Check out the impressions of the project at Lowlands and discover how science and festival culture come together to break taboos and improve health.

This project was only possible thanks to the dedication and collaboration of a passionate and skilled team. I would like to express my gratitude to the following individuals for their tireless effort and commitment 🙌:

Eefje Schrauwen, Nicole van den Braak, Margriet van Gestel, Chenay Waldekker, Sander Boden, Daan Brackel, Margaretha Kaijen-Lambers, Cindy de Bot, Eline S. Klaassens, Luena Pinheiro Keulers and Linda Wijnstroom – de Quartel.

We would also like to thank all the Lowlands participants who contributed to this research. Your enthusiasm and cooperation are invaluable and help us continue to improve women’s health.