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Das S, Konwar BK. The vital role of Lactobacillus sp. in vaginal health: Implications for enhanced prophylactic research. Probiotics Antimicrob Proteins 2025:10.1007/s12602-025-10574-7. [PMID: 40402415 DOI: 10.1007/s12602-025-10574-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/29/2025] [Indexed: 05/23/2025]
Abstract
Genital opening or vaginal canal (VC) in women has different embryological origin than the entire female reproductive system. The microenvironment of the VC post puberty is everchanging due to the hormonal fluctuations in a woman's body. However, the vaginal canal maintains a defined microbiota with higher population of inherent lactic acid bacteria (LAB) species under healthy conditions. The preservation of the beneficial flora in the genital area is dependent on genetic, social, and habitual factors. The understanding and practice of these factors prevents the commencement of various vaginal infections/vaginitis. Common vaginal infections have known antibiotic treatments; however, treatments of few infections are still unavailable. The study of sexual health is scarce in India due to social and economic factors, with less number of studies from various parts of the country. Thus, there is a necessity of new-age prophylactic solutions in such developing countries. This review highlights the origin of the female reproductive system and describes how the hormonal change initiates unique microenvironment development. Later, we have elaborately discussed the precautionary contribution of lactic acid bacteria and their unexplored commercial utilization, which in turn would help in various ways to improve the standards of reproductive hygiene products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shreaya Das
- Dept. of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tezpur University (Central), Napaam, 784028, Assam, India.
| | - Bolin Kumar Konwar
- Dept. of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tezpur University (Central), Napaam, 784028, Assam, India
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Zhang J, Li K, Cao T, Duan Z. Characterization of a Lactobacillus gasseri strain as a probiotic for female vaginitis. Sci Rep 2024; 14:14426. [PMID: 38910172 PMCID: PMC11194266 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-65550-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Vaginitis, a prevalent gynecological condition in women, is mainly caused by an imbalance in the vaginal micro-ecology. The two most common types of vaginitis are vaginal bacteriosis and vulvovaginal candidiasis, triggered by the virulent Gardnerella vaginalis and Candida albicans, respectively. In this study, a strain capable of inhibiting G. vaginalis and C. albicans was screened from vaginal secretions and identified as Lactobacillus gasseri based on 16S rRNA sequences. The strain, named L. gasseri VHProbi E09, could inhibit the growth of G. vaginalis and C. albicans under co-culture conditions by 99.07% ± 0.26% and 99.95% ± 0.01%, respectively. In addition, it could significantly inhibit the adhesion of these pathogens to vaginal epithelial cells. The strain further showed the ability to inhibit the enteropathogenic bacteria Escherichia coli and Salmonella enteritidis, to tolerate artificial gastric and intestinal fluids and to adhere to intestinal Caco-2 cells. These results suggest that L. gasseri VHProbi E09 holds promise for clinical trials and animal studies whether administered orally or directly into the vagina. Whole-genome analysis also revealed a genome consisting of 1752 genes for L. gasseri VHProbi E09, with subsequent analyses identifying seven genes related to adhesion and three genes related to bacteriocins. These adhesion- and bacteriocin-related genes provide a theoretical basis for understanding the mechanism of bacterial inhibition of the strain. The research conducted in this study suggests that L. gasseri VHProbi E09 may be considered as a potential probiotic, and further research can delve deeper into its efficacy as an agent which can restore a healthy vaginal ecosystem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyan Zhang
- Qingdao Vland Biotech Group Co., Ltd, Qingdao, China
| | - Kailing Li
- Qingdao Vland Biotech Group Co., Ltd, Qingdao, China
| | - Tishuang Cao
- Qingdao Vland Biotech Group Co., Ltd, Qingdao, China
| | - Zhi Duan
- Qingdao Vland Biotech Group Co., Ltd, Qingdao, China.
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Thanaboonyawat I, Pothisan S, Petyim S, Laokirkkiat P. Pregnancy outcomes after vaginal probiotic supplementation before frozen embryo transfer: a randomized controlled study. Sci Rep 2023; 13:11892. [PMID: 37482568 PMCID: PMC10363539 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-39078-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
In women receiving assisted reproductive treatment, intrauterine lactobacilli dominance has been associated with higher rates of pregnancy achievement. This randomized controlled trial conducted in the fertility clinic of the university hospital from 7 August 2019 to May 2021, aimed to compare the clinical outcome of embryo transfer in frozen-thaw cycles with Lactobacillus supplementation prior to embryo transfer and the standard treatment. A total of 340 infertile women underwent randomization. The biochemical and clinical pregnancy rates were comparable between the groups (39.9 and 34.2% in the study group vs. 41.8 and 31.7% in the control group); however, the miscarriage rate was significantly decreased in the study group (9.5 vs. 19.1%, respectively, p = 0.02), [OR = 0.44, 95% CI (0.23, 0.86)]. Among 49 women diagnosed with bacterial vaginosis, the live birth rate in the study group was higher than the control group (42.31 vs. 26.09%, p = 0.23), [OR = 2.08, 95% CI (0.62, 6.99)]. In the blastocyst transfer group (n = 206), the live birth rate was significantly higher in the study group than in the control group (35.71 vs. 22.22%, p = 0.03) [OR = 1.9, 95% CI (1.05, 3.59)]. Therefore, intravaginal lactobacilli supplementation before embryo transfer in the frozen-thaw cycle did not improve the biochemical and clinical pregnancy rate in the general population but significantly reduced the miscarriage rate.Trial Registration: TCTR20190429001 (29/04/2019) @ www.thaiclinicaltrials.org .
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Affiliation(s)
- Isarin Thanaboonyawat
- Infertility Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, 2 Wanglang Road, Siriraj, Bangkoknoi, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand.
| | - Sootthinan Pothisan
- Infertility Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, 2 Wanglang Road, Siriraj, Bangkoknoi, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
| | - Somsin Petyim
- Infertility Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, 2 Wanglang Road, Siriraj, Bangkoknoi, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
| | - Pitak Laokirkkiat
- Infertility Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, 2 Wanglang Road, Siriraj, Bangkoknoi, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
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Mora RM, Mehta P, Ziltzer R, Samplaski MK. Systematic Review: The Neovaginal Microbiome. Urology 2022; 167:3-12. [PMID: 35276200 DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2022.02.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 02/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review neovaginal colonization and inflammatory patterns, and factors that may impact this. METHODS A systematic review of the neovaginal microbiome was conducted in concordance with PRISMA guidelines through October 2021. RESULTS Thirteen articles were included, totaling 458 patients. Neovaginal constructions were most commonly performed with penile and scrotal skin grafts, sigmoid segments, and peritoneal grafts. The neovaginal microflora identified were generally polymicrobial and shared similarities with the native tissue. Nine studies identified Lactobacillus: 5/6 for penile skin, 1/3 for sigmoid, 1/1 for peritoneum, and 2/3 for other graft types, suggesting that the neovagina may support Lactobacillus either innately, via rectal migration or oral probiotic supplementation. A polymicrobial, bacterial vaginosis-like environment was found in nine studies. Inflammatory markers were also described: 2/6 for penile skin, 2/3 for sigmoid, 0/1 for peritoneum, and 1/3 for other graft types. Scant data were available on the impact of postsurgical duration, oral hormones, dilating, sexual practices, or douching on the neovaginal microbiome. CONCLUSION Understanding and optimizing the polymicrobial neovaginal microenvironment may improve surgical outcomes, specifically inflammatory, pain, and infectious. Future research should focus on standardizing testing and classification systems, and treating neovaginal dysbiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Mateo Mora
- University of Southern California Institute of Urology, 1441 Eastlake Avenue, Los Angeles, California, USA.
| | - Preeya Mehta
- University of Southern California, 1985 Zonal Avenue, Los Angeles, California, USA.
| | - Ryan Ziltzer
- University of Southern California, 1985 Zonal Avenue, Los Angeles, California, USA.
| | - Mary K Samplaski
- University of Southern California Institute of Urology, 1441 Eastlake Avenue, Los Angeles, California, USA.
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Manzoor S, Wani SM, Mir SA, Rizwan D. Role of probiotics and prebiotics in mitigation of different diseases. Nutrition 2022; 96:111602. [PMID: 35182833 DOI: 10.1016/j.nut.2022.111602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Daily Vaginal Microbiota Fluctuations Associated with Natural Hormonal Cycle, Contraceptives, Diet, and Exercise. mSphere 2020; 5:5/4/e00593-20. [PMID: 32641429 PMCID: PMC7343982 DOI: 10.1128/msphere.00593-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The vaginal microbiome is a critical component of women’s sexual and reproductive health, with variations in microbial composition, particularly the loss of Lactobacillus species, being implicated in gynecologic and obstetric diseases. Given that the vaginal microbiome is so crucial, why do vaginal microbial profiles vary strikingly from person to person and even change over time within the same person? In the present study, which tracked the daily vaginal microbiomes of young healthy women through different lifestyles, we found that use of a locally released progestin contraceptive, a vegetarian diet, and intense exercise appear to lead to vaginal microbiome alterations and loss of Lactobacillus species. The impact of these vaginal microbiome changes on immediate and long-term health remain to be investigated. The microorganisms of the vaginal tract are critical for vaginal and reproductive health. However, the regulation of these microorganisms is not well understood. Therefore, we investigated whether different factors regulate the vaginal microbiota of healthy college-aged women (n = 26) with high temporal resolution by collecting daily self-administered vaginal swabs and using 16S rRNA sequencing for bacterial identification. As expected, vaginal microbiota clustered into five predefined community state types. Vaginal microbial diversity, stability, and Lactobacillus abundances were associated with the menstrual cycle and hormonal contraceptive use. Vaginal microbial diversity, as measured using the Shannon index, increased during menses (P < 0.001), while Lactobacillus abundances decreased (P = 0.01). The covariance of these microbial measures with previously established estradiol levels suggests that estrogens can regulate vaginal microbiota. Moreover, the use of hormonal contraceptives may alter the temporal dynamics of the vaginal microbiota and decrease Lactobacillus abundances, depending on hormonal content and release method. Interestingly, intrasample diversity was greater in participants on a vegetarian diet (P = 0.004) and among participants who exercised more (P = 0.04). These findings indicate that ovarian hormones, diet, and exercise can regulate vaginal microbial composition and stability and may impact vaginal and reproductive health. IMPORTANCE The vaginal microbiome is a critical component of women’s sexual and reproductive health, with variations in microbial composition, particularly the loss of Lactobacillus species, being implicated in gynecologic and obstetric diseases. Given that the vaginal microbiome is so crucial, why do vaginal microbial profiles vary strikingly from person to person and even change over time within the same person? In the present study, which tracked the daily vaginal microbiomes of young healthy women through different lifestyles, we found that use of a locally released progestin contraceptive, a vegetarian diet, and intense exercise appear to lead to vaginal microbiome alterations and loss of Lactobacillus species. The impact of these vaginal microbiome changes on immediate and long-term health remain to be investigated.
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Nami Y, Haghshenas B, Yari Khosroushahi A. Molecular Identification and Probiotic Potential Characterization of Lactic Acid Bacteria Isolated from Human Vaginal Microbiota. Adv Pharm Bull 2018; 8:683-695. [PMID: 30607341 PMCID: PMC6311637 DOI: 10.15171/apb.2018.077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2017] [Revised: 07/28/2018] [Accepted: 08/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: The increased demand for probiotics because of their health purposes provides the context for this study, which involves the molecular identification of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) obtained from the vaginal microbiota of healthy fertile women. The isolates were subjected for examination to prove their probiotic potential. In particular, the isolates were subjected to various tests, including acid/bile tolerance, antimicrobial activity, antibiotic susceptibility, Gram staining, and catalase enzyme activity assessment. Methods: Several methods were utilized for the molecular identification of the isolates, including ARDRA, (GTG)5-PCR fingerprinting, and the PCR sequencing of 16S-rDNA amplified fragments. Disc diffusion and well diffusion methods were used to assess antibiotic susceptibility and antibacterial activity of isolates. Tolerance to acid and bile was performed at pH 2.5 and 0.3% bile oxgall. Results: A total of 45 isolates of 88 separate organisms was selected. All of the isolates demonstrated an antibacterial effect on the exploited indicator microorganisms. All selected strains also maintained their viability at low-pH and high-bile salt conditions and exhibited abroad variation in their survival. Only the Enterococcus avium strain showed resistance to all 9 tested antibiotics. Based on the molecular identification and clustering, the 45 isolated bacteria were classified into three major groups of LAB: Enterococcus, Lactobacillus and Lactococcus. Conclusion: LAB are microorganisms that have a particularly important function in maintaining the health of the vaginal and gastrointestinal tract and in protecting it from infection by other pathogenic organisms. The isolates found to be a promising probiotic candidate by showed desirable characteristics. Therefore, strain DL3 can be used as natural food preservative with some more potential investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yousef Nami
- Department of Food Biotechnology, Branch for Northwest & West Region, Agricultural Biotechnology Research Institute of Iran, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Tabriz, Iran
| | - Babak Haghshenas
- Regenerative Medicine Research Center (RMRC), Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Ahmad Yari Khosroushahi
- Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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Marschalek J, Farr A, Marschalek ML, Domig KJ, Kneifel W, Singer CF, Kiss H, Petricevic L. Influence of Orally Administered Probiotic Lactobacillus Strains on Vaginal Microbiota in Women with Breast Cancer during Chemotherapy: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Double-Blinded Pilot Study. Breast Care (Basel) 2017; 12:335-339. [PMID: 29234255 DOI: 10.1159/000478994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Due to chemotherapy and estrogen deprivation therapy, genitourinary syndrome of menopause is a common condition in breast cancer patients. We aimed to determine the effect of an orally administered Lactobacillus preparation on the vaginal microbiota in breast cancer patients. Methods Postmenopausal breast cancer patients receiving chemotherapy, with vaginal atrophy and an intermediate vaginal microbiota (Nugent score 4-6), were either randomized to the intervention group receiving probiotic capsules of 4 Lactobacillus species or to the control group receiving placebo twice daily for 2 weeks. Consecutive vaginal swabs were taken at baseline, 1 day after administration of the last capsule (follow-up 1), and after 1 week (follow-up 2) in 22 patients (11 vs. 11). Results We observed a positive influence on the vaginal microbiota in 7/11 (63%) women in the intervention group, and 4/11 (36%) women in the control group. There was a shift in Nugent score towards normal microbiota levels in the intervention group (-1.3 at follow-up 1, -0.45 at follow-up 2) and a significant deterioration of the Nugent score in the control group (+0.4 at follow-up 1, +2.5 at follow-up 2). Conclusion The orally administered Lactobacillus preparation has the potential to improve the vaginal microbiota in women undergoing chemotherapy for breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian Marschalek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Alex Farr
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Konrad J Domig
- Department of Food Science and Technology, BOKU - University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Wolfgang Kneifel
- Department of Food Science and Technology, BOKU - University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christian F Singer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Herbert Kiss
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ljubomir Petricevic
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Obiero JA, Waititu KK, Mulei I, Omar FI, Jaoko W, Mwethera PG. Baboon vaginal microbial flora. J Med Primatol 2016; 45:147-55. [DOI: 10.1111/jmp.12217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/25/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jael A. Obiero
- Reproductive Health and Biology; Institute of Primate Research; Nairobi Kenya
| | - Kenneth K. Waititu
- Reproductive Health and Biology; Institute of Primate Research; Nairobi Kenya
| | - Isaac Mulei
- Veterinary Pathology; University of Nairobi; Nairobi Kenya
| | - Farah I. Omar
- Reproductive Health and Biology; Institute of Primate Research; Nairobi Kenya
| | - Walter Jaoko
- Medical Microbiology; University of Nairobi; Nairobi Kenya
| | - Peter G. Mwethera
- Reproductive Health and Biology; Institute of Primate Research; Nairobi Kenya
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A Study of the Vaginal Microbiome in Healthy Canadian Women Utilizing cpn60-Based Molecular Profiling Reveals Distinct Gardnerella Subgroup Community State Types. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0135620. [PMID: 26266808 PMCID: PMC4534464 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0135620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2015] [Accepted: 07/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The vaginal microbiota is important in women’s reproductive and overall health. However, the relationships between the structure, function and dynamics of this complex microbial community and health outcomes remain elusive. The objective of this study was to determine the phylogenetic range and abundance of prokaryotes in the vaginal microbiota of healthy, non-pregnant, ethnically diverse, reproductive-aged Canadian women. Socio-demographic, behavioural and clinical data were collected and vaginal swabs were analyzed from 310 women. Detailed profiles of their vaginal microbiomes were generated by pyrosequencing of the chaperonin-60 universal target. Six community state types (CST) were delineated by hierarchical clustering, including three Lactobacillus-dominated CST (L. crispatus, L. iners, L. jensenii), two Gardnerella-dominated (subgroups A and C) and an “intermediate” CST which included a small number of women with microbiomes dominated by seven other species or with no dominant species but minority populations of Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, Peptoniphilus, E. coli and various Proteobacteria in co-dominant communities. The striking correspondence between Nugent score and deep sequencing CST continues to reinforce the basic premise provided by the simpler Gram stain method, while additional analyses reveal detailed cpn60-based phylogeny and estimated abundance in microbial communities from vaginal samples. Ethnicity was the only demographic or clinical characteristic predicting CST, with differences in Asian and White women (p = 0.05). In conclusion, this study confirms previous work describing four cpn60-based subgroups of Gardnerella, revealing previously undescribed CST. The data describe the range of bacterial communities seen in Canadian women presenting with no specific vaginal health concerns, and provides an important baseline for future investigations of clinically important cohorts.
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Fosch SE, Yones C, Trossero M, Grosso O, Perazzi B. Influence of Contraception on Basic Vaginal States: A Prospective Study. Health (London) 2015. [DOI: 10.4236/health.2015.72028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Anderson AC, Sanunu M, Schneider C, Clad A, Karygianni L, Hellwig E, Al-Ahmad A. Rapid species-level identification of vaginal and oral lactobacilli using MALDI-TOF MS analysis and 16S rDNA sequencing. BMC Microbiol 2014; 14:312. [PMID: 25495549 PMCID: PMC4272787 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-014-0312-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2014] [Accepted: 11/25/2014] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lactobacillus represents a large genus with different implications for the human host. Specific lactobacilli are considered to maintain vaginal health and to protect from urogenital infection. The presence of Lactobacillus species in carious lesions on the other hand is associated with progressive caries. Despite their clinical significance, species-level identification of lactobacilli still poses difficulties and mostly involves a combination of different phenotypic and genotypic methods. This study evaluated rapid MALDI-TOF MS analysis of vaginal and oral Lactobacillus isolates in comparison to 16S rDNA analysis. RESULTS Both methods were used to analyze 77 vaginal and 21 oral Lactobacillus isolates. The concordance of both methods was at 96% with five samples discordantly identified. Fifteen different Lactobacillus species were found in the vaginal samples, primarily L. iners, L. crispatus, L. jensenii and L. gasseri. In the oral samples 11 different species were identified, mostly L. salivarius, L. gasseri, L. rhamnosus and L. paracasei. Overall, the species found belonged to six different phylogenetic groups. For several samples, MALDI-TOF MS analysis only yielded scores indicating genus-level identification. However, in most cases the species found agreed with the 16S rDNA analysis result. CONCLUSION MALDI-TOF MS analysis proved to be a reliable and fast tool to identify lactobacilli to the species level. Even though some results were ambiguous while 16S rDNA sequencing yielded confident species identification, accuracy can be improved by extending reference databases. Thus, mass spectra analysis provides a suitable method to facilitate monitoring clinically relevant Lactobacillus species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annette Carola Anderson
- Department of Operative Dentistry and Periodontology, Albert-Ludwigs-University, Hugstetter Strasse 55, Freiburg, Germany.
| | - Mohamed Sanunu
- Department of Hygiene and Microbiology, Albert-Ludwigs-University, Hermann-Herder-Str. 11, Freiburg, Germany.
| | - Christian Schneider
- Department of Hygiene and Microbiology, Albert-Ludwigs-University, Hermann-Herder-Str. 11, Freiburg, Germany.
| | - Andreas Clad
- Department for Gynaecology, Medical Center, Albert-Ludwigs-University, Hugstetter Strasse 55, Freiburg, Germany.
| | - Lamprini Karygianni
- Department of Operative Dentistry and Periodontology, Albert-Ludwigs-University, Hugstetter Strasse 55, Freiburg, Germany.
| | - Elmar Hellwig
- Department of Operative Dentistry and Periodontology, Albert-Ludwigs-University, Hugstetter Strasse 55, Freiburg, Germany.
| | - Ali Al-Ahmad
- Department of Operative Dentistry and Periodontology, Albert-Ludwigs-University, Hugstetter Strasse 55, Freiburg, Germany.
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Petricevic L, Kaufmann U, Domig KJ, Kraler M, Marschalek J, Kneifel W, Kiss H. Rectal Lactobacillus species and their influence on the vaginal microflora: a model of male-to-female transsexual women. J Sex Med 2014; 11:2738-43. [PMID: 25146566 DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Based on Lactobacillus species co-colonizing the vagina and rectum, it has been hypothesized that the rectum may be an important reservoir for vaginal colonization by lactobacilli. There are no data on this issue in male-to-female transsexual women. AIM We undertook this observational study to characterize the Lactobacillus species present in the neovagina and rectum of male-to-female transsexual women and to determine the degree of neovaginal-rectal co-colonization in order to gain a better understanding of the potential role of the gut as a reservoir for genital lactobacilli. METHODS Sixty-one male-to-female transsexual women with penile skin lined neovagina without clinical signs of infection were recruited on an ongoing basis from among male-to-female transsexual outpatients. Neovaginal and rectal smears were taken for molecular Lactobacillus species profiling by denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (PCR-DGGE). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Matching Lactobacillus species between neovagina and rectum. RESULTS Forty-three of the 61 male-to-female transsexual women (70.5%) simultaneously harbored the same lactobacilli in both the neovagina and rectum. We found 276 neovaginal and 258 rectal DGGE bands representing 11 Lactobacillus species, with 201 matches of the same Lactobacillus species in neovagina and rectum. 37 of the 61 women (61%) had two or more matching Lactobacillus species. CONCLUSION These data support the hypothesis that the rectum may play an important role as source of Lactobacillus species that colonies neovagina of male-to-female transsexual women. In view of the specific anatomical circumstances of the study population, these findings may be extended to the general population of women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ljubomir Petricevic
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Petricevic L, Domig KJ, Nierscher FJ, Sandhofer MJ, Fidesser M, Krondorfer I, Husslein P, Kneifel W, Kiss H. Characterisation of the vaginal Lactobacillus microbiota associated with preterm delivery. Sci Rep 2014; 4:5136. [PMID: 24875844 PMCID: PMC4038809 DOI: 10.1038/srep05136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 148] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2014] [Accepted: 05/15/2014] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The presence of an abnormal vaginal microflora in early pregnancy is a risk factor for preterm delivery. There is no investigation on vaginal flora dominated by lactic acid bacteria and possible association with preterm delivery. We assessed the dominant vaginal Lactobacillus species in healthy pregnant women in early pregnancy in relation to pregnancy outcome. We observed 111 low risk pregnant women with a normal vaginal microflora 11 + 0 to 14 + 0 weeks of pregnancy without subjective complaints. Vaginal smears were taken for the identification of lactobacilli using denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE). Pregnancy outcome was recorded as term or preterm delivery (limit 36 + 6 weeks of gestation). The diversity of Lactobacillus species in term vs. preterm was the main outcome measure. L. iners alone was detected in 11 from 13 (85%) women who delivered preterm. By contrast, L. iners alone was detected in only 16 from 98 (16%) women who delivered at term (p < 0.001). Fifty six percent women that delivered at term and 8% women that delivered preterm had two or more vaginal Lactobacillus spp. at the same time. This study suggests that dominating L. iners alone detected in vaginal smears of healthy women in early pregnancy might be associated with preterm delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ljubomir Petricevic
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Konrad J Domig
- Department of Food Science and Technology, BOKU - University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Muthgasse 18, A-1190 Vienna, Austria
| | - Franz Josef Nierscher
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Michael J Sandhofer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Maria Fidesser
- Department of Food Science and Technology, BOKU - University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Muthgasse 18, A-1190 Vienna, Austria
| | - Iris Krondorfer
- Department of Food Science and Technology, BOKU - University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Muthgasse 18, A-1190 Vienna, Austria
| | - Peter Husslein
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Wolfgang Kneifel
- Department of Food Science and Technology, BOKU - University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Muthgasse 18, A-1190 Vienna, Austria
| | - Herbert Kiss
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
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15
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Siavoshi F, Saniee P. Vacuoles of Candida yeast as a specialized niche for Helicobacter pylori. World J Gastroenterol 2014; 20:5263-5273. [PMID: 24833856 PMCID: PMC4017041 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v20.i18.5263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2013] [Revised: 01/09/2014] [Accepted: 02/26/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) are resistant to hostile gastric environments and antibiotic therapy, reflecting the possibility that they are protected by an ecological niche, such as inside the vacuoles of human epithelial and immune cells. Candida yeast may also provide such an alternative niche, as fluorescently labeled H. pylori were observed as fast-moving and viable bacterium-like bodies inside the vacuoles of gastric, oral, vaginal and foodborne Candida yeasts. In addition, H. pylori-specific genes and proteins were detected in samples extracted from these yeasts. The H. pylori present within these yeasts produce peroxiredoxin and thiol peroxidase, providing the ability to detoxify oxygen metabolites formed in immune cells. Furthermore, these bacteria produce urease and VacA, two virulence determinants of H. pylori that influence phago-lysosome fusion and bacterial survival in macrophages. Microscopic observations of H. pylori cells in new generations of yeasts along with amplification of H. pylori-specific genes from consecutive generations indicate that new yeasts can inherit the intracellular H. pylori as part of their vacuolar content. Accordingly, it is proposed that yeast vacuoles serve as a sophisticated niche that protects H. pylori against the environmental stresses and provides essential nutrients, including ergosterol, for its growth and multiplication. This intracellular establishment inside the yeast vacuole likely occurred long ago, leading to the adaptation of H. pylori to persist in phagocytic cells. The presence of these bacteria within yeasts, including foodborne yeasts, along with the vertical transmission of yeasts from mother to neonate, provide explanations for the persistence and propagation of H. pylori in the human population. This Topic Highlight reviews and discusses recent evidence regarding the evolutionary adaptation of H. pylori to thrive in host cell vacuoles.
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16
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Mendes-Soares H, Suzuki H, Hickey RJ, Forney LJ. Comparative functional genomics of Lactobacillus spp. reveals possible mechanisms for specialization of vaginal lactobacilli to their environment. J Bacteriol 2014; 196:1458-70. [PMID: 24488312 PMCID: PMC3993339 DOI: 10.1128/jb.01439-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2013] [Accepted: 01/26/2014] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Lactobacilli are found in a wide variety of habitats. Four species, Lactobacillus crispatus, L. gasseri, L. iners, and L. jensenii, are common and abundant in the human vagina and absent from other habitats. These may be adapted to the vagina and possess characteristics enabling them to thrive in that environment. Furthermore, stable codominance of multiple Lactobacillus species in a single community is infrequently observed. Thus, it is possible that individual vaginal Lactobacillus species possess unique characteristics that confer to them host-specific competitive advantages. We performed comparative functional genomic analyses of representatives of 25 species of Lactobacillus, searching for habitat-specific traits in the genomes of the vaginal lactobacilli. We found that the genomes of the vaginal species were significantly smaller and had significantly lower GC content than those of the nonvaginal species. No protein families were found to be specific to the vaginal species analyzed, but some were either over- or underrepresented relative to nonvaginal species. We also found that within the vaginal species, each genome coded for species-specific protein families. Our results suggest that even though the vaginal species show no general signatures of adaptation to the vaginal environment, each species has specific and perhaps unique ways of interacting with its environment, be it the host or other microbes in the community. These findings will serve as a foundation for further exploring the role of lactobacilli in the ecological dynamics of vaginal microbial communities and their ultimate impact on host health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Mendes-Soares
- Institute for Bioinformatics and Evolutionary Studies, University of Idaho, Moscow, Idaho, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Idaho, Moscow, Idaho, USA
| | - Haruo Suzuki
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Roxana J. Hickey
- Institute for Bioinformatics and Evolutionary Studies, University of Idaho, Moscow, Idaho, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Idaho, Moscow, Idaho, USA
- Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Graduate Program, University of Idaho, Moscow, Idaho, USA
| | - Larry J. Forney
- Institute for Bioinformatics and Evolutionary Studies, University of Idaho, Moscow, Idaho, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Idaho, Moscow, Idaho, USA
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17
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Petricevic L, Kaufmann U, Domig KJ, Kraler M, Marschalek J, Kneifel W, Kiss H. Molecular detection of Lactobacillus species in the neovagina of male-to-female transsexual women. Sci Rep 2014; 4:3746. [PMID: 24434849 PMCID: PMC3894556 DOI: 10.1038/srep03746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2013] [Accepted: 12/23/2013] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a general opinion that penile skin lined neovagina of transsexual women is not able to support the growth of lactobacilli. This study was undertaken to prove if lactobacilli strains could survive in neovagina and to characterise the most dominant Lactobacillus species. Sixty three male-to-female transsexual women without abnormal vaginal discharge, clinical signs of infection were recruited on an ongoing basis from among transsexual outpatients in an academic research institution and tertiary care centre. Neovaginal smears were taken for molecular Lactobacillus spp. profiling by denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (PCR–DGGE). Lactobacillus species were detected from 47/63 transsexual women (75%). The 279 Lactobacillus signals detected by PCR-DGGE technique belonged to 13 different species. Lactobacilli of the L. delbrueckii group (L. gasseri, L. crispatus, L. johnsonii, L. iners, L. jensenii) were predominant. More than 90% of women harboured a combination of two or more neovaginal Lactobacillus species. In this study we report the frequent occurrence of lactobacilli from neovagina of transsexual women. Both, frequency and composition were similar to the normal lactic acid bacterial microflora in both women of reproductive age and postmenopausal women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ljubomir Petricevic
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Ulrike Kaufmann
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Konrad J Domig
- Department of Food Science and Technology, BOKU - University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Muthgasse 18, A-1190 Vienna, Austria
| | - Manuel Kraler
- Department of Food Science and Technology, BOKU - University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Muthgasse 18, A-1190 Vienna, Austria
| | - Julian Marschalek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Wolfgang Kneifel
- Department of Food Science and Technology, BOKU - University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Muthgasse 18, A-1190 Vienna, Austria
| | - Herbert Kiss
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
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18
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Sirota I, Zarek SM, Segars JH. Potential influence of the microbiome on infertility and assisted reproductive technology. Semin Reprod Med 2014; 32:35-42. [PMID: 24390919 DOI: 10.1055/s-0033-1361821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Although an altered vaginal microbiota has been demonstrated to affect parturition, its role in assisted reproductive technologies is uncertain. Nevertheless, the effect of known pathogens such as Mycoplasma tuberculosis, Chlamydia trachomatis, and Neisseria gonorrhoeae is clear, causing subclinical changes thought to be risk factors in subfertility. The Human Microbiome Project (HMP) has allowed for metagenomic studies to aid in characterizing normal vaginal flora. Recent findings from the HMP demonstrate that many different species of Lactobacillus are present in the vaginal tract, with a few that predominate. Studies that characterize the vaginal microbiome in assisted reproductive technology support the hypothesis that colonizing the transfer-catheter tip with Lactobacillus crispatus at the time of embryo transfer may increase the rates of implantation and live birth rate while decreasing the rate of infection. In addition, there is some evidence that a progesterone-resistant endometrium might increase the risk of an abnormal vaginal microbiome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ido Sirota
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center, New York, New York
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19
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Chaban B, Links MG, Jayaprakash TP, Wagner EC, Bourque DK, Lohn Z, Albert AYK, van Schalkwyk J, Reid G, Hemmingsen SM, Hill JE, Money DM. Characterization of the vaginal microbiota of healthy Canadian women through the menstrual cycle. MICROBIOME 2014; 2:23. [PMID: 25053998 PMCID: PMC4106219 DOI: 10.1186/2049-2618-2-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 170] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2013] [Accepted: 03/31/2014] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The vaginal microbial community plays a vital role in maintaining women's health. Understanding the precise bacterial composition is challenging because of the diverse and difficult-to-culture nature of many bacterial constituents, necessitating culture-independent methodology. During a natural menstrual cycle, physiological changes could have an impact on bacterial growth, colonization, and community structure. The objective of this study was to assess the stability of the vaginal microbiome of healthy Canadian women throughout a menstrual cycle by using cpn60-based microbiota analysis. Vaginal swabs from 27 naturally cycling reproductive-age women were collected weekly through a single menstrual cycle. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed to amplify the universal target region of the cpn60 gene and generate amplicons representative of the microbial community. Amplicons were pyrosequenced, assembled into operational taxonomic units, and analyzed. Samples were also assayed for total 16S rRNA gene content and Gardnerella vaginalis by quantitative PCR and screened for the presence of Mollicutes by using family and genus-specific PCR. RESULTS Overall, the vaginal microbiome of most women remained relatively stable throughout the menstrual cycle, with little variation in diversity and only modest fluctuations in species richness. Microbiomes between women were more different than were those collected consecutively from individual women. Clustering of microbial profiles revealed the expected groupings dominated by Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus iners, and Lactobacillus jensenii. Interestingly, two additional clusters were dominated by either Bifidobacterium breve or a heterogeneous mixture of nonlactobacilli. Direct G. vaginalis quantification correlated strongly with its pyrosequencing-read abundance, and Mollicutes, including Mycoplasma hominis, Ureaplasma parvum, and Ureaplasma urealyticum, were detected in most samples. CONCLUSIONS Our cpn60-based investigation of the vaginal microbiome demonstrated that in healthy women most vaginal microbiomes remained stable through their menstrual cycle. Of interest in these findings was the presence of Bifidobacteriales beyond just Gardnerella species. Bifidobacteriales are frequently underrepresented in 16S rRNA gene-based studies, and their detection by cpn60-based investigation suggests that their significance in the vaginal community may be underappreciated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bonnie Chaban
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, University of Saskatchewan, 52 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5B4, Canada
| | - Matthew G Links
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, University of Saskatchewan, 52 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5B4, Canada
- Agriculture and AgriFood Canada, 107 Science Place, Saskatoon, SK S7N 0X2, Canada
| | - Teenus Paramel Jayaprakash
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, University of Saskatchewan, 52 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5B4, Canada
| | - Emily C Wagner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia, 1190 Hornby Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2K5, Canada
- Women’s Health Research Institute, 4500 Oak Street, Vancouver, BC V6H 3N1, Canada
| | - Danielle K Bourque
- Women’s Health Research Institute, 4500 Oak Street, Vancouver, BC V6H 3N1, Canada
| | - Zoe Lohn
- Women’s Health Research Institute, 4500 Oak Street, Vancouver, BC V6H 3N1, Canada
| | - Arianne YK Albert
- Women’s Health Research Institute, 4500 Oak Street, Vancouver, BC V6H 3N1, Canada
| | - Julie van Schalkwyk
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia, 1190 Hornby Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2K5, Canada
- Women’s Health Research Institute, 4500 Oak Street, Vancouver, BC V6H 3N1, Canada
| | - Gregor Reid
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Western Ontario and Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
| | - Sean M Hemmingsen
- National Research Council Canada, 110 Gymnasium Place, Saskatoon, SK S7N 0W9, Canada
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Janet E Hill
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, University of Saskatchewan, 52 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5B4, Canada
| | - Deborah M Money
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia, 1190 Hornby Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2K5, Canada
- Women’s Health Research Institute, 4500 Oak Street, Vancouver, BC V6H 3N1, Canada
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20
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Damke E, Tsuzuki JK, Chassot F, Cortez DAG, Ferreira ICP, Mesquita CSS, da-Silva VRS, Svidzinski TIE, Consolaro MEL. Spermicidal and anti-Trichomonas vaginalis activity of Brazilian Sapindus saponaria. Altern Ther Health Med 2013; 13:196. [PMID: 23890053 PMCID: PMC3728232 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6882-13-196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2013] [Accepted: 07/25/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Background Sapindus saponaria is used traditionally for curing ulcers, external wounds and inflammations. The spermicidal and anti-Trichomonas activity of S. saponaria and its effect on Lactobacillus acidophilus were evaluated. Methods Water-ethanol (WE) and butanolic (BE) extracts, as well as a purified sample of saponins (SP) from S. saponaria were tested for spermicidal and anti-Trichomonas activity and for their effect on L. acidophilus. Results WE, BE and SP immobilized spermatozoa at a minimum effective concentration (MEC) of 2.5 (gram %) for extracts and 1.25 (gram %) for SP. The effective concentrations that caused 50% immobilization of spermatozoa (EC50) were 0.5 (gram %) for WE and SP, and 0.1 (gram %) for BE. The compounds were effective against Trichomonas vaginalis (Minimum Inhibitory Concentration = 0.156 mg/mL for WE and BE, and 0.078 mg/mL for SP against a clinical strain (CS); and 0.312, 0.156 and 0.078 mg/mL for WE, BE and SP, respectively, against an ATCC strain). In all concentrations tested, the growth of L. acidophilus was not reduced. Conclusion The in vitro study proved the spermicidal and anti-Trichomonas activity of S. saponaria. Complementary in vivo studies should be made for establish the use as a vaginal spermicide, particularly in Brazil and Latin America.
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21
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Petricevic L, Domig KJ, Nierscher FJ, Sandhofer MJ, Krondorfer I, Kneifel W, Kiss H. Differences in the vaginal lactobacilli of postmenopausal women and influence of rectal lactobacilli. Climacteric 2012; 16:356-61. [PMID: 23113473 DOI: 10.3109/13697137.2012.725788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study was undertaken to characterize the Lactobacillus spp. dominating the vaginal microbiota of healthy postmenopausal women and to determine the possible influence of rectal lactobacilli. METHODS Sixty postmenopausal women aged 55-65 years without clinical signs of vaginal infection not receiving hormone replacement therapy were included in this cross-sectional observational study. Based on Gram-stained smears, 30 women with a normal vaginal flora (Nugent score 0) were included in Group 1, and 30 women with an intermediate vaginal flora characterized by an absence of vaginal lactobacilli (Nugent score 4) were included in Group 2. Vaginal and rectal smears were taken for molecular lactobacillus profiling using polymerase chain reaction and denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis. Diversity of vaginal and rectal lactobacilli in postmenopausal women was the main outcome measure. RESULTS We noticed a minor interference of gut lactic acid bacteria on a normal vaginal microflora dominated by lactobacilli strains of the L. delbrueckii group. When the normal vaginal microflora is disturbed by depletion of lactobacilli, the gut may function as a reservoir for lactobacilli of the L. casei group, which then colonize the vagina. CONCLUSION Our data indicate that rectal lactobacilli may affect the vaginal flora of postmenopausal women in the case of lactobacillary absence and help to maintain a normal vaginal microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Petricevic
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetomaternal Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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22
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Hickey RJ, Zhou X, Pierson JD, Ravel J, Forney LJ. Understanding vaginal microbiome complexity from an ecological perspective. Transl Res 2012; 160:267-82. [PMID: 22683415 PMCID: PMC3444549 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2012.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 177] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2011] [Revised: 02/13/2012] [Accepted: 02/14/2012] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The various microbiota normally associated with the human body have an important influence on human development, physiology, immunity, and nutrition. This is certainly true for the vagina wherein communities of mutualistic bacteria constitute the first line of defense for the host by excluding invasive, nonindigenous organisms that may cause disease. In recent years much has been learned about the bacterial species composition of these communities and how they differ between individuals of different ages and ethnicities. A deeper understanding of their origins and the interrelationships of constituent species is needed to understand how and why they change over time or in response to changes in the host environment. Moreover, there are few unifying theories to explain the ecological dynamics of vaginal ecosystems as they respond to disturbances caused by menses and human activities such as intercourse, douching, and other habits and practices. This fundamental knowledge is needed to diagnose and assess risk to disease. Here we summarize what is known about the species composition, structure, and function of bacterial communities in the human vagina and the applicability of ecological models of community structure and function to understanding the dynamics of this and other ecosystems that comprise the human microbiome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roxana J Hickey
- Institute for Bioinformatics and Evolutionary Studies-IBEST, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID, USA
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23
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Macklaim JM, Cohen CR, Donders G, Gloor GB, Hill JE, Parham GP, Ravel J, Spear G, van de Wijgert J, Reid G. Exploring a road map to counter misconceptions about the cervicovaginal microbiome and disease. Reprod Sci 2012; 19:1154-62. [PMID: 22614624 DOI: 10.1177/1933719112446075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Urogenital diseases, especially infection and cancer, are major causes of death and morbidity in females. Yet, millions of women in the developing world have no access to basic urogynecological care, and the diagnosis and treatment of widespread aberrant bacterial conditions (bacterial vaginosis [BV] and aerobic vaginitis [AV]) remain suboptimal the world over. Samples from women living in resource-disadvantaged and developed countries have been analyzed by high-throughput sequencing to reveal the diversity of bacteria in the vagina, how rapidly the bacterial population fluctuates over time, and how rapidly the switch occurs between healthy and aberrant conditions. Unfortunately, clinical diagnostic methods are inefficient and too often outdated therapies are administered. The net result is suboptimal care and recurrent disease that adversely affects the quality of life. This viewpoint outlines a scientific and translational road map designed to improve the cervicovaginal health and treatment of disease. This comprises (1) improving education of women and physicians on the vaginal microbiota; (2) having agencies target funding for research to improve diagnosis and test new therapies; and (3) making sure that new approaches are accessible in developing countries, empowering to women, and are acceptable and appropriate for different populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean M Macklaim
- Department of Biochemistry, The University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
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24
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Petricevic L, Domig KJ, Nierscher FJ, Krondorfer I, Janitschek C, Kneifel W, Kiss H. Characterisation of the oral, vaginal and rectal Lactobacillus flora in healthy pregnant and postmenopausal women. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2012; 160:93-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2011.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2011] [Revised: 08/30/2011] [Accepted: 10/13/2011] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
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25
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Lamont RF, Sobel JD, Akins RA, Hassan SS, Chaiworapongsa T, Kusanovic JP, Romero R. The vaginal microbiome: new information about genital tract flora using molecular based techniques. BJOG 2011; 118:533-49. [PMID: 21251190 PMCID: PMC3055920 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-0528.2010.02840.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 300] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Vaginal microbiome studies provide information that may change the way we define vaginal flora. Normal flora appears dominated by one or two species of Lactobacillus. Significant numbers of healthy women lack appreciable numbers of vaginal lactobacilli. Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is not a single entity, but instead consists of different bacterial communities or profiles of greater microbial diversity than is evident from cultivation-dependent studies. BV should be considered a syndrome of variable composition that results in different symptoms, phenotypical outcomes, and responses to different antibiotic regimens. This information may help to elucidate the link between BV and infection-related adverse outcomes of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- R F Lamont
- Perinatology Research Branch, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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26
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Zhou X, Brotman RM, Gajer P, Abdo Z, Schüette U, Ma S, Ravel J, Forney LJ. Recent advances in understanding the microbiology of the female reproductive tract and the causes of premature birth. Infect Dis Obstet Gynecol 2010; 2010:737425. [PMID: 21197076 PMCID: PMC3004384 DOI: 10.1155/2010/737425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2010] [Accepted: 10/25/2010] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Data derived from molecular microbiological investigations of the human vagina have led to the discovery of resident bacterial communities that exhibit marked differences in terms of species composition. All undergo dynamic changes that are likely due to intrinsic host and behavioral factors. Similar types of bacteria have been found in both amniotic fluid and the vagina, suggesting a potential route of colonization. Given that not all of the species involved in intrauterine infections are readily cultivated, it is important that culture-independent methods of analysis must be used to understand the etiology of these infections. Further research is needed to establish whether an ascending pathway from the vagina to the amniotic cavity enables the development of intrauterine infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Zhou
- Initiative for Bioinformatics and Evolutionary Studies (IBEST), University of Idaho, Moscow, ID 83844-3051, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, Life Sciences South, Rm. 441A, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID 83844-3150, USA
| | - Rebecca M. Brotman
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201-1559, USA
| | - Pawel Gajer
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201-1559, USA
| | - Zaid Abdo
- Initiative for Bioinformatics and Evolutionary Studies (IBEST), University of Idaho, Moscow, ID 83844-3051, USA
- Department of Mathematics, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID 83844-3051, USA
- Department of Statistics, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID 83844-3051, USA
| | - Ursel Schüette
- Initiative for Bioinformatics and Evolutionary Studies (IBEST), University of Idaho, Moscow, ID 83844-3051, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, Life Sciences South, Rm. 441A, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID 83844-3150, USA
| | - Sam Ma
- Initiative for Bioinformatics and Evolutionary Studies (IBEST), University of Idaho, Moscow, ID 83844-3051, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, Life Sciences South, Rm. 441A, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID 83844-3150, USA
| | - Jacques Ravel
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201-1559, USA
| | - Larry J. Forney
- Initiative for Bioinformatics and Evolutionary Studies (IBEST), University of Idaho, Moscow, ID 83844-3051, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, Life Sciences South, Rm. 441A, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID 83844-3150, USA
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27
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El Aila NA, Tency I, Claeys G, Verstraelen H, Saerens B, Santiago GLDS, De Backer E, Cools P, Temmerman M, Verhelst R, Vaneechoutte M. Identification and genotyping of bacteria from paired vaginal and rectal samples from pregnant women indicates similarity between vaginal and rectal microflora. BMC Infect Dis 2009; 9:167. [PMID: 19828036 PMCID: PMC2770471 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2334-9-167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2009] [Accepted: 10/14/2009] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The vaginal microflora is important for maintaining vaginal health and preventing infections of the reproductive tract. The rectum has been suggested as the major source for the colonisation of the vaginal econiche. Methods To establish whether the rectum can serve as a possible bacterial reservoir for colonisation of the vaginal econiche, we cultured vaginal and rectal specimens from pregnant women at 35-37 weeks of gestation, identified the isolates to the species level with tRNA intergenic length polymorphism analysis (tDNA-PCR) and genotyped the isolates for those subjects from which the same species was isolated simultaneously vaginally and rectally, by RAPD-analysis. One vaginal and one rectal swab were collected from a total of each of 132 pregnant women at 35-37 weeks of gestation. Swabs were cultured on Columbia CNA agar and MRS agar. For each subject 4 colonies were selected for each of both sites, i.e. 8 colonies in total. Results Among the 844 isolates that could be identified by tDNA-PCR, a total of 63 bacterial species were present, 9 (14%) only vaginally, 26 (41%) only rectally, and 28 (44%) in both vagina and rectum. A total of 121 (91.6%) of 132 vaginal samples and 51 (38.6%) of 132 rectal samples were positive for lactobacilli. L. crispatus was the most frequently isolated Lactobacillus species from the vagina (40% of the subjects were positive), followed by L. jensenii (32%), L. gasseri (30%) and L. iners (11%). L. gasseri was the most frequently isolated Lactobacillus species from the rectum (15%), followed by L. jensenii (12%), L. crispatus (11%) and L. iners (2%). A total of 47 pregnant women carried the same species vaginally and rectally. This resulted in 50 vaginal/rectal pairs of the same species, for a total of eight different species. For 34 of the 50 species pairs (68%), isolates with the same genotype were present vaginally and rectally and a high level of genotypic diversity within species per subject was also established. Conclusion It can be concluded that there is a certain degree of correspondence between the vaginal and rectal microflora, not only with regard to species composition but also with regard to strain identity between vaginal and rectal isolates. These results support the hypothesis that the rectal microflora serves as a reservoir for colonisation of the vaginal econiche.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nabil Abdullah El Aila
- Laboratory Bacteriology Research, Department of Clinical Chemistry, Microbiology & Immunology, University of Ghent, Ghent, Belgium.
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Vásquez A, Ahrné S, Jeppsson B, Molin G. Oral administration ofLactobacillusandBifidobacteriumstrains of intestinal and vaginal origin to healthy human females: Re-isolation from faeces and vagina. MICROBIAL ECOLOGY IN HEALTH AND DISEASE 2009. [DOI: 10.1080/08910600510031376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alejandra Vásquez
- Department of Food Technology, Engineering and Nutrition, Division of Food Technology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Siv Ahrné
- Department of Food Technology, Engineering and Nutrition, Division of Food Technology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Bengt Jeppsson
- Department of Surgery, Lund University, Malmö University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Göran Molin
- Department of Food Technology, Engineering and Nutrition, Division of Food Technology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
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Stencel-Gabriel K, Gabriel I, Wiczkowski A, Paul M, Olejek A. Prenatal priming of cord blood T lymphocytes by microbiota in the maternal vagina. Am J Reprod Immunol 2009; 61:246-52. [PMID: 19239427 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0897.2009.00687.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM In the vagina of women at the reproductive age, more than 170 strains of bacteria and yeasts are found. The effect of vaginal flora on neonatal T cells is yet to be investigated. METHOD OF STUDY We analyzed CD45RA and CD45RO expression on neonatal CD4+ T cells and cytokine production in CBMC cultures (interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma ), interleukin-4 (IL-4) and IL-12) related to vaginal bacteria isolated from a maternal vagina. We collected vaginal swabs from 36 women at the first stage of the delivery and cord blood from their newborns. IFN-gamma, IL-4, and IL-12 in stimulated CBMC were measured and the expression of CD45RA/CD45RO on CD4+ T cells was assessed. RESULTS We noted the difference in CD45RO CD4+ expression and IL-12 levels between the newborns whose mothers were or were not colonized with Lactobacillus in the vagina (newborns whose mothers were colonized with Lactobacillus: CD45RO-10%+/-3; IL-12-0.2 pg/mL +/- 0.05; newborns whose mothers were not colonized with Lactobacillus: CD45RO-6%+/-3; IL-12-2.0 pg/mL +/- 0.7). CONCLUSION Our results may indicate that lactobacilli in maternal vagina influence the development of neonatal immune system. Yet, more research is needed using specified bacterial antigens.
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Kaur IP, Kuhad A, Garg A, Chopra K. Probiotics: Delineation of Prophylactic and Therapeutic Benefits. J Med Food 2009; 12:219-35. [DOI: 10.1089/jmf.2007.0544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Indu Pal Kaur
- Division of Pharmaceutics, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UGC Center for Advanced Studies, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
| | - Anurag Kuhad
- Division of Pharmacology, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UGC Center for Advanced Studies, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
| | - Amita Garg
- Division of Pharmaceutics, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UGC Center for Advanced Studies, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
| | - Kanwaljit Chopra
- Division of Pharmacology, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UGC Center for Advanced Studies, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
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Lenoir-Wijnkoop I, Sanders ME, Cabana MD, Caglar E, Corthier G, Rayes N, Sherman PM, Timmerman HM, Vaneechoutte M, Van Loo J, Wolvers DAW. Probiotic and prebiotic influence beyond the intestinal tract. Nutr Rev 2008; 65:469-89. [PMID: 18038940 DOI: 10.1111/j.1753-4887.2007.tb00272.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Probiotics and prebiotics have long been appreciated for their positive influences on gut health. Research on the mechanisms and effects of these agents shows that their impact reaches beyond the intestine. Effects on the microecology and pathology of the oral cavity, stomach, and vaginal tract have been observed. Likely mediated through immune influences, systemic effects such as reduced severity of colds or other respiratory conditions, impact on allergy incidence and symptoms, and reduced absences from work or daycare have also been noted. These observations, among others, suggest a broader spectrum of influence than commonly considered for these unique substances.
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Kiss H, Kögler B, Petricevic L, Sauerzapf I, Klayraung S, Domig K, Viernstein H, Kneifel W. Vaginal Lactobacillus microbiota of healthy women in the late first trimester of pregnancy. BJOG 2007; 114:1402-7. [PMID: 17877778 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-0528.2007.01412.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study was undertaken to characterise the dominant species of Lactobacillus colonising the vagina of healthy pregnant women, to examine some of their phenotypic and genotypic properties, and to gain a better understanding of the potential role of species, which might be associated with infection-free status. DESIGN A prospective descriptive cohort study. SETTING Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical University of Vienna and Medical School, Vienna, Austria. SAMPLE A total of 200 women in the late first trimester of pregnancy without clinical signs of vaginal infection were included in the study. Of these, 126 women were found to have a normal vaginal flora based on Gram stain. METHODS Culture probes from those 126 women were further processed for identification of Lactobacillus species. Overall, 168 colonies from 84 women were identified as belonging to the Lactobacillus genus. Based on the combined results of microbiological methods and genus-specific, multiplex, and species-specific polymerase chain reaction, lactobacilli were recovered from 72 women. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Identification of Lactobacillus species of the vaginal flora of healthy pregnant women. RESULTS The most frequently occurring species were Lactobacillus crispatus and Lactobacillus gasseri, followed by Lactobacillus jensenii and Lactobacillus rhamnosus. CONCLUSIONS Our results may have implications on the composition and on the use of Lactobacillus preparations for the prevention of recurrent vaginal infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Kiss
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University and Medical School of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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Seib KL, Wu HJ, Kidd SP, Apicella MA, Jennings MP, McEwan AG. Defenses against oxidative stress in Neisseria gonorrhoeae: a system tailored for a challenging environment. Microbiol Mol Biol Rev 2006; 70:344-61. [PMID: 16760307 PMCID: PMC1489540 DOI: 10.1128/mmbr.00044-05] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Neisseria gonorrhoeae is a host-adapted pathogen that colonizes primarily the human genitourinary tract. This bacterium encounters reactive oxygen and reactive nitrogen species as a consequence of localized inflammatory responses in the urethra of males and endocervix of females and also of the activity of commensal lactobacilli in the vaginal flora. This review describes recent advances in the understanding of defense systems against oxidative stress in N. gonorrhoeae and shows that while some of its defenses have similarities to the paradigm established with Escherichia coli, there are also some key differences. These differences include the presence of a defense system against superoxide based on manganese ions and a glutathione-dependent system for defense against nitric oxide which is under the control of a novel MerR-like transcriptional regulator. An understanding of the defenses against oxidative stress in N. gonorrhoeae and their regulation may provide new insights into the ways in which this bacterium survives challenges from polymorphonuclear leukocytes and urogenital epithelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate L Seib
- The School of Molecular and Microbial Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane 4072, Australia
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Choi HS, Kim KM, Kim CH, Kim SM, Oh JS. Hydrogen peroxide producing lactobacilli in women with cervical neoplasia. Cancer Res Treat 2006; 38:108-11. [PMID: 19771268 DOI: 10.4143/crt.2006.38.2.108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2006] [Accepted: 04/30/2006] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE It is well known that human papillomavirus (HPV) is the main cause of cervical neoplasia, and hydrogen peroxide-producing lactobacilli are the most important microorganisms for maintaining the balance of the vaginal ecosystem. The purpose of our study was to investigate the relationship of hydrogen peroxide-producing lactobacilli, cervical neoplasia and high-risk HPV. MATERIALS AND METHODS We enrolled 1138 women with abnormal cervical smears or cervicograms who were referred to the department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Chonnam National University Medical School. In all of them, 1,138 vaginal swabs were collected for the qualitative assay of hydrogen peroxide producing lactobacilli and 150 cervical swabs were used for the HPV hybrid capture II test without regard to the subjects' pregnancy status. In the non-pregnant women, 880 cervical biopsies and/or loop electrosurgical excision procedures were performed for making the histological diagnosis. RESULTS There was no significant difference not only between the distribution of H(2)O(2) producing lactobacilli and the cervical histology, but also between the distribution of H(2)O(2) producing lactobacilli and the positivity for high-risk HPV. CONCLUSIONS Both cervical neoplasia and high-risk HPV may not be influenced by the existence of hydrogen peroxide producing lactobacilli in the vagina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ho Sun Choi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Microbiology, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Korea.
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Gupta G, Jain RK, Maikhuri JP, Shukla PK, Kumar M, Roy AK, Patra A, Singh V, Batra S. Discovery of substituted isoxazolecarbaldehydes as potent spermicides, acrosin inhibitors and mild anti-fungal agents. Hum Reprod 2005; 20:2301-8. [PMID: 15932909 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dei041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The continued endeavour to design novel, non-detergent molecules that can be useful as topical, prophylactic contraceptives has led to the discovery of substituted isoxazolecarbaldehydes as a new class of compounds exhibiting both spermicidal and acrosin inhibitory activities simultaneously. METHODS Normal human semen samples were used to detect the spermicidal and acrosin inhibitory activities of the new compounds. Lactobacillus, HeLa and Candida cultures were used to determine the safety of compounds towards normal vaginal flora, their cytotoxicity and anti-fungal activity. Supravital staining and the hypo-osmotic swelling test (HOST) were used to detect the effect on sperm membrane integrity. Nonoxynol-9 (N-9) was used as a reference standard. RESULTS The 5- and 3-substituted isoxazolecarbaldehydes showed significant spermicidal [minimum effective concentration (MEC)=0.005-2.5%] and acrosin inhibitory (IC50=3.9-58 x 10(-4) mol/l) activities in several molecules along with weak fungicidal activity against Candida albicans. Lineweaver-Burk and Dixon plot analysis of a representative structure showed non-competitive inhibition of human acrosin enzyme, and the most potent acrosin inhibitors also considerably diminished the induction of the acrosome reaction by Ca2+ ionophore. Some compounds were found to be significantly safer than N-9 towards Lactobacillus acidophilus in vitro at their respective spermicidal MECs. In the cytotoxicity assay, the IC50 of these compounds towards the HeLa cell line was of the same order as N-9 (0.9-0.1 mmol/l); however, in contrast, the compounds exhibited only a moderate effect on sperm membrane integrity. CONCLUSIONS This study indicates that 5- and 3-substituted isoxazolecarbaldehydes are 'first generation' multifunctional, spermicidal molecules that hold promise for development as topical contraceptives with useful associated activities that can add considerably to their effectiveness, safety and prophylaxis.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Gupta
- Division of Endocrinology, Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow 226 001, India.
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36
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Merk K, Borelli C, Korting HC. Lactobacilli – bacteria–host interactions with special regard to the urogenital tract. Int J Med Microbiol 2005; 295:9-18. [PMID: 15861812 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmm.2004.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Lactobacilli are part of the commensal human mucosal flora. Their application as probiotics in dairy products such as yoghurt has increased during the last century since a health promoting effect has been reported. Much work has been done to study the effects of these bacteria on the immune system and epithelial cells, mainly focused on the intestinal mucosa as the field of first contact. This review is aimed to present and discuss results concerning interactions of lactobacilli and immune system or epithelial cells with focus to urogenital mucosa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathrin Merk
- Klinikum der Universität München, Klinik und Poliklinik für Dermatologie und Allergologie - Innenstadt, Frauenlobstr. 9-11, D-8033 7 München, Germany.
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Verhelst R, Verstraelen H, Claeys G, Verschraegen G, Delanghe J, Van Simaey L, De Ganck C, Temmerman M, Vaneechoutte M. Cloning of 16S rRNA genes amplified from normal and disturbed vaginal microflora suggests a strong association between Atopobium vaginae, Gardnerella vaginalis and bacterial vaginosis. BMC Microbiol 2004; 4:16. [PMID: 15102329 PMCID: PMC419343 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2180-4-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 246] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2003] [Accepted: 04/21/2004] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The pathogenesis of bacterial vaginosis remains largely elusive, although some microorganisms, including Gardnerella vaginalis, are suspected of playing a role in the etiology of this disorder. Recently culture-independent analysis of microbial ecosystems has proven its efficacy in characterizing the diversity of bacterial populations. Here, we report on the results obtained by combining culture and PCR-based methods to characterize the normal and disturbed vaginal microflora. RESULTS A total of 150 vaginal swab samples from healthy women (115 pregnant and 35 non-pregnant) were categorized on the basis of Gram stain of direct smear as grade I (n = 112), grade II (n = 26), grade III (n = 9) or grade IV (n = 3). The composition of the vaginal microbial community of eight of these vaginal swabs (three grade I, two grade II and three grade III), all from non-pregnant women, were studied by culture and by cloning of the 16S rRNA genes obtained after direct amplification. Forty-six cultured isolates were identified by tDNA-PCR, 854 cloned 16S rRNA gene fragments were analysed of which 156 by sequencing, yielding a total of 38 species, including 9 presumptively novel species with at least five species that have not been isolated previously from vaginal samples. Interestingly, cloning revealed that Atopobium vaginae was abundant in four out of the five non-grade I specimens. Finally, species specific PCR for A. vaginae and Gardnerella vaginalis pointed to a statistically significant co-occurrence of both species in the bacterial vaginosis samples. CONCLUSIONS Although historically the literature regarding bacterial vaginosis has largely focused on G. vaginalis in particular, several findings of this study--like the abundance of A. vaginae in disturbed vaginal microflora and the presence of several novel species--indicate that much is to be learned about the composition of the vaginal microflora and its relation to the etiology of BV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Verhelst
- Department Clinical Chemistry, Microbiology & Immunology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Hans Verstraelen
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Ghent University Hospital, Belgium
| | - Geert Claeys
- Department Clinical Chemistry, Microbiology & Immunology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Gerda Verschraegen
- Department Clinical Chemistry, Microbiology & Immunology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Joris Delanghe
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Ghent University Hospital, Belgium
| | - Leen Van Simaey
- Department Clinical Chemistry, Microbiology & Immunology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Catharine De Ganck
- Department Clinical Chemistry, Microbiology & Immunology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Marleen Temmerman
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Ghent University Hospital, Belgium
| | - Mario Vaneechoutte
- Department Clinical Chemistry, Microbiology & Immunology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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Abstract
Probiotics are defined as live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host. There is now mounting evidence that selected probiotic strains can provide health benefits to their human hosts. Numerous clinical trials show that certain strains can improve the outcome of intestinal infections by reducing the duration of diarrhea. Further investigations have shown benefits in reducing the recurrence of urogenital infections in women, while promising studies in cancer and allergies require research into the mechanisms of activity for particular strains and better-designed trials. At present, only a small percentage of physicians either know of probiotics or understand their potential applicability to patient care. Thus, probiotics are not yet part of the clinical arsenal for prevention and treatment of disease or maintenance of health. The establishment of accepted standards and guidelines, proposed by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and the World Health Organization, represents a key step in ensuring that reliable products with suitable, informative health claims become available. Based upon the evidence to date, future advances with single- and multiple-strain therapies are on the horizon for the management of a number of debilitating and even fatal conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregor Reid
- Canadian Research and Development Centre for Probiotics, The Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario N6A 4V2, Canada.
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Reid G, Bocking A. The potential for probiotics to prevent bacterial vaginosis and preterm labor. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2003; 189:1202-8. [PMID: 14586379 DOI: 10.1067/s0002-9378(03)00495-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Infections of the urogenital tract in women represent a major burden on the quality of life of women and on the health care system of Canada and other countries. Complications arising from bacterial vaginosis (BV) include increased risk of sexually transmitted diseases including human immunodeficiency virus and elevated risk of preterm birth (PTB). Pharmaceutical interventions, such as antibiotics, have been suboptimally effective and have failed to reduce the incidence of PTB. The absence of lactobacilli in the vagina, a specific feature of BV, raises the question as to whether restoration of lactobacilli, by probiotic therapy, can restore the normal flora and improve the chances of having a healthy term pregnancy. The rationale for probiotic use in pregnant women is quite strong. Certain lactobacilli strains can safely colonize the vagina after oral and vaginal administration, displace and kill pathogens including Gardnerella vaginalis and Escherichia coli, and modulate the immune response to interfere with the inflammatory cascade that leads to PTB. Additional attributes of probiotics include their potential to degrade lipids and enhance cytokine levels, which promote embryo development. In a society that focuses on disease rather than health and drug therapy rather than natural preventive measures, it will take some effort to get remedies such as probiotics into mainstream care. Perhaps the escalating health care budgets and emergence of "superbugs" will provide the incentives to put in place clinical trials designed to evaluate how best to use the commensal organisms that, after all, make up more of our body than human cells, and without which none of us would survive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregor Reid
- Canadian Research and Development Centre for Probiotics, Lawson Health Research Institute, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.
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Ojha P, Maikhuri JP, Gupta G. Effect of spermicides on Lactobacillus acidophilus in vitro-nonoxynol-9 vs. Sapindus saponins. Contraception 2003; 68:135-8. [PMID: 12954526 DOI: 10.1016/s0010-7824(03)00138-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Saponins extracted from the fruit pericarp of Sapindus mukorosii were tested for their bactericidal/bacteriostatic property against Lactobacillus acidophilus. Nonoxynol-9 was used as a reference compound for the comparison of activity. Lactobacillus colonies were grown on specific medium (Rogosa SL agar) containing different concentrations of saponins and nonoxynol-9 in an atmosphere of 5% CO2/95% air at 37 degrees C for 72 h. The number and size of colonies were recorded at the end of the experiment and compared with controls. Results indicated that nearly 90% of Lactobacillus colonies with minor reduction in size thrived at 0.05% concentration of saponins whereas only 18% of colonies with approximately 75% reduction in size grew in dishes containing 0.05% nonoxynol-9. At higher concentrations of saponins, there was a gradual, dose-dependent reduction in the number and size of colonies and at 2.5% concentration there was an approximately 55% reduction in the number and 60% reduction in the size of surviving colonies. No lactobacillus colonies, however, grew in dishes containing 0.1% and higher concentrations of nonoxynol-9. The studies indicate that Sapindus saponins as compared to nonoxynol-9 are far less toxic to lactobacillus species and therefore saponins containing spermicidal preparations are likely to be more vaginal-friendly than equivalent nonoxynol-9 preparations.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Ojha
- Division of Endocrinology, Central Drug Research Institute, 226 001 Lucknow, India
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St Amant DC, Valentin-Bon IE, Jerse AE. Inhibition of Neisseria gonorrhoeae by Lactobacillus species that are commonly isolated from the female genital tract. Infect Immun 2002; 70:7169-71. [PMID: 12438404 PMCID: PMC132995 DOI: 10.1128/iai.70.12.7169-7171.2002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Epidemiological studies suggest H(2)O(2)-producing lactobacilli protect women against gonorrhea. Here we demonstrate that Lactobacillus crispatus and Lactobacillus jensenii, the most common lactobacilli in the female genital tract, inhibit gonococci in both acidic and neutral pH conditions. Inhibition was neutralized by bovine catalase, suggesting that H(2)O(2) is the primary mediator of inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diane C St Amant
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, F. Edward Hebert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland 20814-4799, USA
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Tärnberg M, Jakobsson T, Jonasson J, Forsum U. Identification of randomly selected colonies of lactobacilli from normal vaginal fluid by pyrosequencing of the 16S rDNA variable V1 and V3 regions. APMIS 2002; 110:802-10. [PMID: 12588421 DOI: 10.1034/j.1600-0463.2002.1101106.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The present study aimed to characterize lactobacilli in vaginal fluid from 23 adult healthy women by using high-throughput DNA sequencing for identification of a large number of randomly selected colonies appearing on Rogosa and blood agar. The typing method was based on broad-range PCR of 16S rRNA gene variable regions V1 and V3, pyrosequencing, and classification of the fragments by alignment with NCBI-catalogued sequences and type strain sequences. Four major groups of sequences were found among the 402 isolates clearly corresponding to Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus gasseri, Lactobacillus iners and Lactobacillus jensenii when compared to the sequences obtained for type strains. Our results indicate that pyrosequencing of 16S rRNA gene fragments as used here is a fast and reliable method well suited for identification to the species level, even within the Lactobacillus acidophilus complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Tärnberg
- Div. of Clinical Microbiology, Dept. of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Linköping University, Sweden
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Silva-Filho FC, Kasai S, Nomizu M, López LB, Melo-Braga MB, Rocha-Azevedo B, Petrópolis DB, Horbach IS. How laminin-1 can be recognized by the protozoan parasite Tritrichomonas foetus: possible role played by the extracellular matrix glycoprotein in both cytoadhesion and cytotoxicity exerted by the parasite. Parasitol Int 2002; 51:305-7. [PMID: 12243785 DOI: 10.1016/s1383-5769(02)00018-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The isoform 1 of the extracellular matrix glycoprotein Laminin is known to be an important ligand for some parasitic protozoa including Trichomonas vaginalis. The bovine parasite Tritrichomonas foetus seems to display a similar recognition process to laminin-1, as some amino acid sequences found in the LNS module of laminin-1 can also be recognized by this parasite. Which of the laminin-1 residing adhesion sequences are recognized by T. foetus, and the role played by such a protein-cell recognition process in both cytoadhesion and cytotoxicity exerted by the parasite are the subjects briefly reviewed and discussed here.
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Affiliation(s)
- F C Silva-Filho
- UFRJ-Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, CCS-Bloco G, 21949-900, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
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Vásquez A, Jakobsson T, Ahrné S, Forsum U, Molin G. Vaginal lactobacillus flora of healthy Swedish women. J Clin Microbiol 2002; 40:2746-9. [PMID: 12149323 PMCID: PMC120688 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.40.8.2746-2749.2002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 216] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Species of the Lactobacillus acidophilus complex are generally considered to constitute most of the vaginal Lactobacillus flora, but the flora varies between studies. However, this may be due to difficulties in identifying the closely related species within the L. acidophilus complex by using traditional methods and to variations in the vaginal status of the participants. Two hundred two isolates from the vaginal fluids of 23 Swedish women without bacterial vaginosis, as defined by the criteria of Nugent et al. (R. P. Nugent, M. A. Krohn, and S. L. Hillier, J. Clin. Microbiol. 29:297-301, 1991), were typed by randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis and identified to the species level by temporal temperature gradient gel electrophoresis, multiplex PCR, and 16S ribosomal DNA sequencing. The vaginal flora of most participants was dominated by a single RAPD type, but five of them harbored two RAPD types representing two different species or strains. The most frequently occurring species were Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus gasseri, Lactobacillus iners, and Lactobacillus jensenii. L. iners has not previously been reported as one of the predominant Lactobacillus species in the vagina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandra Vásquez
- Laboratory of Food Hygiene, Division of Food Technology, Lund University, Sweden
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Abstract
The urogenital microflora of a healthy woman comprises approximately 50 species of organisms, which differ in composition according to reproductive stages and exposure to several factors, including antibiotics and spermicides. Infections are very common with > 300 million cases of urinary tract infections, bacterial vaginosis, and yeast vaginitis worldwide per annum. At the time of infection in the bladder and vagina, the urogenital flora is often dominated by the infecting pathogens, in contrast with healthy phases when indigenous organisms dominate. Premenopausal women have a flora of mostly lactobacilli, and certain properties of these strains, including adhesive ability and production of acids, bacteriocins, hydrogen peroxide, and biosurfactants, appear important in conferring protection to the host. Efforts to artificially restore an unbalanced flora with the use of probiotics have met with mixed results but research aimed at selecting scientifically based strains could well provide a reliable alternative treatment and preventive regimen to antibiotics in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Reid
- Lawson Research Institute and the Department of Microbiology and Immunology, the University of Western Ontario, Canada.
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Eslick GD. Helicobacter pylori infection transmitted sexually via oral-genital contact: a hypothetical model. Sex Transm Infect 2000; 76:489-492. [PMID: 11221134 PMCID: PMC1744238 DOI: 10.1136/sti.76.6.489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To postulate that Helicobacter pylori infection may be transmitted sexually, using the human female vagina as a reservoir for transmission. METHODS A literature search was performed using Medline, Embase, Biological Abstracts, and Currents Contents (January 1983 to August 2000). Relevant keywords were used and additional manual searches were made using the reference lists from the selected articles to retrieve other papers relevant to the topic. CONCLUSIONS Helicobacter pylori infection could be transmitted sexually with the vagina acting as a potential temporary/permanent reservoir given the right environmental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- G D Eslick
- Department of Medicine, University of Sydney, Nepean Hospital, Clinical Sciences Building, PO Box 63, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia.
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47
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Abstract
The role of Lactobacillus species in the female urogenital tract as a barrier to infection is of considerable interest. These organisms are believed to contribute to the control of vaginal microbiota by competing with other microorganisms for adherence to epithelial cells and by producing antimicrobial compounds. These bactericidal compounds include organic acid, which lowers the vaginal pH, hydrogen peroxide, bacteriocin-like substances and possibly biosurfactants.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Boris
- Dep. Microbiologie des Ecosystèmes, Institut Pasteur de Lille, 59019, Lille, France
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48
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Barbés C, Boris S. Potential role of lactobacilli as prophylactic agents against genital pathogens. AIDS Patient Care STDS 1999; 13:747-51. [PMID: 10743538 DOI: 10.1089/apc.1999.13.747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The characteristics required of lactobacilli as probioties are the following: beneficial function, easy cultivation, nonpathogenicity, adhesion, and population stability. Several studies have assessed the potential of lactobacilli in the prevention or treatment of certain genitourinary tract infections such as bacterial vaginosis, vaginitis, or urinary tract infections. The main goal of therapy with biotherapeutic agents should be to prevent overgrowth of a pathogen until such a time that the normal microbiota can be reestablished. The possibility of using lactobacilli is promising, especially in pregnant women and in the case of patients with recurrent genitourinary tract infections produced by strains with resistance to several antibiotics. In addition, probiotic therapy is considered as "natural" and without side effects in contrast with conventional pharmaceutical treatments, but there is a limited array of tested biotherapeutic agents and a lack of pharmacokinetic data.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Barbés
- Departamento de Biología Funcional, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Oviedo, Spain.
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49
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Boskey ER, Telsch KM, Whaley KJ, Moench TR, Cone RA. Acid production by vaginal flora in vitro is consistent with the rate and extent of vaginal acidification. Infect Immun 1999; 67:5170-5. [PMID: 10496892 PMCID: PMC96867 DOI: 10.1128/iai.67.10.5170-5175.1999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 238] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Perinatally, and between menarche and menopause, increased levels of estrogen cause large amounts of glycogen to be deposited in the vaginal epithelium. During these times, the anaerobic metabolism of the glycogen, by the epithelial cells themselves and/or by vaginal flora, causes the vagina to become acidic (pH approximately 4). This study was designed to test whether the characteristics of acid production by vaginal flora in vitro can account for vaginal acidity. Eight vaginal Lactobacillus isolates from four species-L. gasseri, L. vaginalis, L. crispatus, and L. jensenii-acidified their growth medium to an asymptotic pH (3.2 to 4.8) that matches the range seen in the Lactobacillus-dominated human vagina (pH 3.6 to 4.5 in most women) (B. Andersch, L. Forssman, K. Lincoln, and P. Torstensson, Gynecol. Obstet. Investig. 21:19-25, 1986; L. Cohen, Br. J. Vener. Dis. 45:241-246, 1969; J. Paavonen, Scand. J. Infect. Dis. Suppl. 40:31-35, 1983; C. Tevi-Bénissan, L. Bélec, M. Lévy, V. Schneider-Fauveau, A. Si Mohamed, M.-C. Hallouin, M. Matta, and G. Grésenguet, Clin. Diagn. Lab. Immunol. 4:367-374, 1997). During exponential growth, all of these Lactobacillus species acidified their growth medium at rates on the order of 10(6) protons/bacterium/s. Such rates, combined with an estimate of the total number of lactobacilli in the vagina, suggest that vaginal lactobacilli could reacidify the vagina at the rate observed postcoitally following neutralization by the male ejaculate (W. H. Masters and V. E. Johnson, Human sexual response, p. 93, 1966). During bacterial vaginosis (BV), there is a loss of vaginal acidity, and the vaginal pH rises to >4.5. This correlates with a loss of lactobacilli and an overgrowth of diverse bacteria. Three BV-associated bacteria, Gardnerella vaginalis, Prevotella bivia, and Peptostreptococcus anaerobius, acidified their growth medium to an asymptotic pH (4.7 to 6.0) consistent with the characteristic elevated vaginal pH associated with BV. Together, these observations are consistent with vaginal flora, rather than epithelial cells, playing a primary role in creating the acidity of the vagina.
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Affiliation(s)
- E R Boskey
- Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, USA
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Abstract
A total of 64 type, reference, clinical, health food, and stock isolates of microaerophilic Lactobacillus species were examined by restriction fragment length polymorphisms. Of particular interest were members of six of the eight species most commonly recovered from the vaginas of healthy premenopausal women, namely, Lactobacillus jensenii, L. casei, L. rhamnosus, L. acidophilus, L. plantarum, and L. fermentum. Six main groupings were identified on the basis of ribotyping. This technique was able to classify fresh isolates to the species level. In the case of the ribotype A grouping for L. rhamnosus, differences between strains were evident by chromosome typing (chromotyping). Many isolates did not possess plasmids. Six L. rhamnosus strains isolated from four different health food products appeared to be identical to L. rhamnosus ATCC 21052. The molecular typing system is useful for identifying and differentiating Lactobacillus isolates. Studies of strains of potential importance to the urogenital flora should include molecular characterization as a means of comparing genetic traits with those of strains whose characteristics associated with colonization and antagonism against pathogens have been defined.
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