1
|
Morselli S, Ceccarani C, Djusse ME, Laghi L, Camboni T, Consolandi C, Foschi C, Severgnini M, Marangoni A. Anti-chlamydial activity of vaginal fluids: new evidence from an in vitro model. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1403782. [PMID: 38912205 PMCID: PMC11193362 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1403782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction We assessed the in vitro anti-chlamydial activity of fresh vaginal secretions, deciphering the microbial and metabolic components able to counteract Chlamydia trachomatis viability. Methods Forty vaginal samples were collected from a group of reproductive-aged women and their anti-chlamydial activity was evaluated by inhibition experiments. Each sample underwent 16S rRNA metabarcoding sequencing to determine the bacterial composition, as well as 1H-NMR spectroscopy to detect and quantify the presence of vaginal metabolites. Results Samples characterized by a high anti-chlamydial activity were enriched in Lactobacillus, especially Lactobacillus crispatus and Lactobacillus iners, while not-active samples exhibited a significant reduction of lactobacilli, along with higher relative abundances of Streptococcus and Olegusella. Lactobacillus gasseri showed an opposite behavior compared to L. crispatus, being more prevalent in not-active vaginal samples. Higher concentrations of several amino acids (i.e., isoleucine, leucine, and aspartate; positively correlated to the abundance of L. crispatus and L. jensenii) lactate, and 4-aminobutyrate were the most significant metabolic fingerprints of highly active samples. Acetate and formate concentrations, on the other hand, were related to the abundances of a group of anaerobic opportunistic bacteria (including Prevotella, Dialister, Olegusella, Peptostreptococcus, Peptoniphilus, Finegoldia and Anaerococcus). Finally, glucose, correlated to Streptococcus, Lachnospira and Alloscardovia genera, emerged as a key molecule of the vaginal environment: indeed, the anti-chlamydial effect of vaginal fluids decreased as glucose concentrations increased. Discussion These findings could pave the way for novel strategies in the prevention and treatment of chlamydial urogenital infections, such as lactobacilli probiotic formulations or lactobacilli-derived postbiotics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Morselli
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Camilla Ceccarani
- Institute of Biomedical Technologies, National Research Council, Segrate, Italy
- National Biodiversity Future Center S.c.a.r.l., Palermo, Italy
| | - Marielle Ezekielle Djusse
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Luca Laghi
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, University of Bologna, Cesena, Italy
| | - Tania Camboni
- Institute of Biomedical Technologies, National Research Council, Segrate, Italy
| | - Clarissa Consolandi
- Institute of Biomedical Technologies, National Research Council, Segrate, Italy
- National Biodiversity Future Center S.c.a.r.l., Palermo, Italy
| | - Claudio Foschi
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Microbiology Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Marco Severgnini
- Institute of Biomedical Technologies, National Research Council, Segrate, Italy
- National Biodiversity Future Center S.c.a.r.l., Palermo, Italy
| | - Antonella Marangoni
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kaur M, Miquel S, Ollivier-Nakusi L, Thoral C, Vareille-Delarbre M, Bekirian C, d'Enfert C, Fontaine T, Roget K, Forestier C. Elemental sulfur enhances the anti-fungal effect of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus Lcr35. Microbes Infect 2024; 26:105286. [PMID: 38160785 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2023.105286] [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: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus Lcr35 is a well-known bacterial strain whose efficiency in preventing recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis has been largely demonstrated in clinical trials. The presence of sodium thiosulfate (STS) has been shown to enhance its ability to inhibit the growth of Candida albicans strains. In this study, we confirmed that Lcr35 has a fungicidal effect not only on the planktonic form of C. albicans but also on other life forms such as hypha and biofilm. Transcriptomic analysis showed that the presence of C. albicans induced a metabolic adaptation of Lcr35 potentially associated with a competitive advantage over yeast cells. However, STS alone had no impact on the global gene expression of Lcr35, which is not in favor of the involvement of an enzymatic transformation of STS. Comparative HPLC and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis of the organic phase from cell-free supernatant (CFS) fractions obtained from Lcr35 cultures performed in the presence and absence of STS identified elemental sulfur (S0) in the samples initially containing STS. In addition, the anti-Candida activity of CFS from STS-containing cultures was shown to be pH-dependent and occurred at acidic pH lower than 5. We next investigated the antifungal activity of lactic acid and acetic acid, the two main organic acids produced by lactobacilli. The two molecules affected the viability of C. albicans but only at pH 3.5 and in a dose-dependent manner, an antifungal effect that was enhanced in samples containing STS in which the thiosulfate was decomposed into S0. In conclusion, the use of STS as an excipient in the manufacturing process of Lcr35 exerted a dual action since the production of organic acids by Lcr35 facilitates the decomposition of thiosulfate into S0, thereby enhancing the bacteria's own anti-fungal effect.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manjyot Kaur
- NEXBIOME Therapeutics, 22 Allée Alan Turing, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France; Université Clermont Auvergne, CNRS, LMGE, F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Sylvie Miquel
- Université Clermont Auvergne, CNRS, LMGE, F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France.
| | | | - Claudia Thoral
- NEXBIOME Therapeutics, 22 Allée Alan Turing, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | | | - Clara Bekirian
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, INRAE USC 2019, Unité Biologie et Pathogénicité Fongiques, 25, rue du Docteur Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Christophe d'Enfert
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, INRAE USC 2019, Unité Biologie et Pathogénicité Fongiques, 25, rue du Docteur Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Thierry Fontaine
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, INRAE USC 2019, Unité Biologie et Pathogénicité Fongiques, 25, rue du Docteur Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Karine Roget
- NEXBIOME Therapeutics, 22 Allée Alan Turing, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Virk MS, Virk MA, He Y, Tufail T, Gul M, Qayum A, Rehman A, Rashid A, Ekumah JN, Han X, Wang J, Ren X. The Anti-Inflammatory and Curative Exponent of Probiotics: A Comprehensive and Authentic Ingredient for the Sustained Functioning of Major Human Organs. Nutrients 2024; 16:546. [PMID: 38398870 PMCID: PMC10893534 DOI: 10.3390/nu16040546] [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: 01/27/2024] [Revised: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Several billion microorganisms reside in the gastrointestinal lumen, including viruses, bacteria, fungi, and yeast. Among them, probiotics were primarily used to cure digestive disorders such as intestinal infections and diarrhea; however, with a paradigm shift towards alleviating health through food, their importance is large. Moreover, recent studies have changed the perspective that probiotics prevent numerous ailments in the major organs. Probiotics primarily produce biologically active compounds targeting discommodious pathogens. This review demonstrates the implications of using probiotics from different genres to prevent and alleviate ailments in the primary human organs. The findings reveal that probiotics immediately activate anti-inflammatory mechanisms by producing anti-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-4, IL-10, IL-11, and IL-13, and hindering pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1, IL-6, and TNF-α by involving regulatory T cells (Tregs) and T helper cells (Th cells). Several strains of Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus reuteri, Bifidobacterium longum, and Bifidobacterium breve have been listed among the probiotics that are excellent in alleviating various simple to complex ailments. Therefore, the importance of probiotics necessitates robust research to unveil the implications of probiotics, including the potency of strains, the optimal dosages, the combination of probiotics, their habitat in the host, the host response, and other pertinent factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Safiullah Virk
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China; (M.S.V.)
| | | | - Yufeng He
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China; (M.S.V.)
| | - Tabussam Tufail
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China; (M.S.V.)
- University Institute of Diet and Nutritional Sciences, The University of Lahore, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Mehak Gul
- Department of Internal Medicine, Sheikh Zayed Hospital, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Abdul Qayum
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China; (M.S.V.)
| | - Abdur Rehman
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China; (M.S.V.)
| | - Arif Rashid
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China; (M.S.V.)
| | - John-Nelson Ekumah
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China; (M.S.V.)
| | - Xu Han
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China; (M.S.V.)
| | - Junxia Wang
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China; (M.S.V.)
| | - Xiaofeng Ren
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China; (M.S.V.)
- Institute of Food Physical Processing, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ardizzone CM, Taylor CM, Toh E, Lillis RA, Elnaggar JH, Lammons JW, Mott PD, Duffy EL, Shen L, Quayle AJ. Association of Chlamydia trachomatis burden with the vaginal microbiota, bacterial vaginosis, and metronidazole treatment. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1289449. [PMID: 38149008 PMCID: PMC10750252 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1289449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Bacterial vaginosis (BV), a dysbiosis of the vaginal microbiota, is a common coinfection with Chlamydia trachomatis (Ct), and BV-associated bacteria (BVAB) and their products have been implicated in aiding Ct evade natural immunity. Here, we determined if a non-optimal vaginal microbiota was associated with a higher genital Ct burden and if metronidazole, a standard treatment for BV, would reduce Ct burden or aid in natural clearance of Ct infection. Cervicovaginal samples were collected from women at enrollment and, if testing positive for Ct infection, at a follow-up visit approximately one week later. Cervical Ct burden was assessed by inclusion forming units (IFU) and Ct genome copy number (GCN), and 16S rRNA gene sequencing was used to determine the composition of the vaginal microbiota. We observed a six-log spectrum of IFU and an eight-log spectrum of GCN in our study participants at their enrollment visit, but BV, as indicated by Amsel's criteria, Nugent scoring, or VALENCIA community state typing, did not predict infectious and total Ct burden, although IFU : GCN increased with Amsel and Nugent scores and in BV-like community state types. Ct burden was, however, associated with the abundance of bacterial species in the vaginal microbiota, negatively with Lactobacillus crispatus and positively with Prevotella bivia. Women diagnosed with BV were treated with metronidazole, and Ct burden was significantly reduced in those who resolved BV with treatment. A subset of women naturally cleared Ct infection in the interim, typified by low Ct burden at enrollment and resolution of BV. Abundance of many BVAB decreased, and Lactobacillus increased, in response to metronidazole treatment, but no changes in abundances of specific vaginal bacteria were unique to women who spontaneously cleared Ct infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caleb M. Ardizzone
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Parasitology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Christopher M. Taylor
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Parasitology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Evelyn Toh
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Rebecca A. Lillis
- Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Jacob H. Elnaggar
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Parasitology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - John W. Lammons
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Parasitology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Patricia Dehon Mott
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Parasitology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Emily L. Duffy
- Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Li Shen
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Parasitology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Alison J. Quayle
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Parasitology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Ou S, Liao M, Cui L, Du Y, Zhao L, Peng C, Jiang L, Liu B. Associations between microbial presence in follicular fluid with IVF outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:2501-2511. [PMID: 37688752 PMCID: PMC10643413 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02912-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of the study was to synthesize disparate studies to investigate potential impact of microbial presence in FF of infertile women on IVF outcomes. METHODS Following preliminary searches to find medical subject heading (MeSH) terms plus free terms, a systematic search was performed in the PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, Web of Science, and Clinicaltrials.gov databases from January 10, 2022, to July 5, 2023. Data collected for each study were analyzed using RevMan 5.4 software available on the Cochrane website. RESULTS After correcting for contamination from the vagina, the FFs of 289 women were detected positively by microbial culture and identification, ELISA, and IPA. The pregnancy rate of the FF-positive group was significantly lower than the FF-negative group (19.7% vs. 32.2%) and (OR: 0.57, 95% CI: 0.28-1.14, P=0.11; I2=56%) while the fertilization rate was almost equal (60.0% vs. 62.0%) and (OR: 1.03, 95% CI: 0.88-1.20, P=0.72; I2=0%). Evidence quality was very low. CONCLUSIONS The different species of microorganisms in FF of infertile women may have different effects on IVF outcomes. The Lactobacillus spp. may have a positive effect, while other microorganisms may have the opposite effect.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shanshan Ou
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, No. 6 Shuangyong Road, Qingxiu District, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Ming Liao
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, No. 6 Shuangyong Road, Qingxiu District, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Lanyu Cui
- Key Laboratory of Longevity and Aging-Related Diseases of Chinese Ministry of Education; Guangxi Colleges and Universities, Key Laboratory of Biological Molecular Medicine Research, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuehui Du
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, No. 6 Shuangyong Road, Qingxiu District, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Ling Zhao
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, No. 6 Shuangyong Road, Qingxiu District, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Chuyu Peng
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, No. 6 Shuangyong Road, Qingxiu District, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Li Jiang
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, No. 6 Shuangyong Road, Qingxiu District, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China.
| | - Bo Liu
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, No. 6 Shuangyong Road, Qingxiu District, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Brown SE, Tuddenham S, Shardell MD, Klebanoff MA, Ghanem KG, Brotman RM. Bacterial Vaginosis and Spontaneous Clearance of Chlamydia trachomatis in the Longitudinal Study of Vaginal Flora. J Infect Dis 2023; 228:783-791. [PMID: 37158693 PMCID: PMC10503950 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiad142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Up to 26% of urogenital Chlamydia trachomatis infections spontaneously resolve between detection and treatment. Mechanisms governing natural resolution are unknown. We examined whether bacterial vaginosis (BV) was associated with greater chlamydia persistence versus spontaneous clearance in a large, longitudinal study. METHODS Between 1999 and 2003, the Longitudinal Study of Vaginal Flora followed reproductive-age women quarterly for 1 year. Baseline chlamydia screening and treatment were initiated after ligase chain reaction testing became available midstudy, and unscreened endocervical samples were tested after study completion. Chlamydia clearance and persistence were defined between consecutive visits without chlamydia-active antibiotics (n = 320 persistence/n = 310 clearance). Associations between Nugent score (0-3, no BV; 4-10, intermediate/BV), Amsel-BV, and chlamydia persistence versus clearance were modeled with alternating and conditional logistic regression. RESULTS Of chlamydia cases, 48% spontaneously cleared by the next visit (310/630). Nugent-intermediate/BV was associated with higher odds of chlamydia persistence (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.89; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.30-2.74), and the findings were similar for Amsel-BV (aOR 1.39; 95% CI, .99-1.96). The association between Nugent-intermediate/BV and chlamydia persistence was stronger in a within-participant analysis of 67 participants with both clearance/persistence intervals (aOR = 4.77; 95% CI, 1.39-16.35). BV symptoms did not affect any results. CONCLUSIONS BV is associated with greater chlamydia persistence. Optimizing the vaginal microbiome may promote chlamydia clearance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Brown
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Susan Tuddenham
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Michelle D Shardell
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Mark A Klebanoff
- Center for Perinatal Research, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Khalil G Ghanem
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Rebecca M Brotman
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Zalambani C, Rizzardi N, Marziali G, Foschi C, Morselli S, Djusse ME, Naldi M, Fato R, Calonghi N, Marangoni A. Role of D(-)-Lactic Acid in Prevention of Chlamydia trachomatis Infection in an In Vitro Model of HeLa Cells. Pathogens 2023; 12:883. [PMID: 37513730 PMCID: PMC10383594 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12070883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
A vaginal microbiota dominated by certain Lactobacillus species may have a protective effect against Chlamydia trachomatis infection. One of the key antimicrobial compounds produced is lactic acid, which is believed to play a central role in host defense. Lactobacillus strains producing the D(-)-lactic acid isomer are known to exert stronger protection. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying this antimicrobial action are not well understood. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of D(-)-lactic acid isomer in the prevention of C. trachomatis infection in an in vitro HeLa cell model. We selected two strains of lactobacilli belonging to different species: a vaginal isolate of Lactobacillus crispatus that releases both D(-) and L(+) isomers and a strain of Lactobacillus reuteri that produces only the L(+) isomer. Initially, we demonstrated that L. crispatus was significantly more effective than L. reuteri in reducing C. trachomatis infectivity. A different pattern of histone acetylation and lactylation was observed when HeLa cells were pretreated for 24 h with supernatants of Lactobacillus crispatus or L. reuteri, resulting in different transcription of genes such as CCND1, CDKN1A, ITAG5 and HER-1. Similarly, distinct transcription patterns were found in HeLa cells treated with 10 mM D(-)- or L(+)-lactic acid isomers. Our findings suggest that D(-) lactic acid significantly affects two non-exclusive mechanisms involved in C. trachomatis infection: regulation of the cell cycle and expression of EGFR and α5β1-integrin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Zalambani
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FABIT), University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Nicola Rizzardi
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FABIT), University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Giacomo Marziali
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FABIT), University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Claudio Foschi
- Microbiology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
- Microbiology Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Sara Morselli
- Microbiology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Marielle Ezekielle Djusse
- Microbiology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Marina Naldi
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FABIT), University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Romana Fato
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FABIT), University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Natalia Calonghi
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FABIT), University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Antonella Marangoni
- Microbiology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Maidment TI, Bryan ER, Pyne M, Barnes M, Eccleston S, Cunningham S, Whitlock E, Redman K, Nicolson V, Beagley KW, Pelzer E. Characterisation of the koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) pouch microbiota in a captive population reveals a dysbiotic compositional profile associated with neonatal mortality. MICROBIOME 2023; 11:75. [PMID: 37060097 PMCID: PMC10105441 DOI: 10.1186/s40168-023-01527-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Captive koala breeding programmes are essential for long-term species management. However, breeding efficacy is frequently impacted by high neonatal mortality rates in otherwise healthy females. Loss of pouch young typically occurs during early lactation without prior complications during parturition and is often attributed to bacterial infection. While these infections are thought to originate from the maternal pouch, little is known about the microbial composition of koala pouches. As such, we characterised the koala pouch microbiome across the reproductive cycle and identified bacteria associated with mortality in a cohort of 39 captive animals housed at two facilities. RESULTS Using 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing, we observed significant changes in pouch bacterial composition and diversity between reproductive time points, with the lowest diversity observed following parturition (Shannon entropy - 2.46). Of the 39 koalas initially sampled, 17 were successfully bred, after which seven animals lost pouch young (overall mortality rate - 41.18%). Compared to successful breeder pouches, which were largely dominated by Muribaculaceae (phylum - Bacteroidetes), unsuccessful breeder pouches exhibited persistent Enterobacteriaceae (phylum - Proteobacteria) dominance from early lactation until mortality occurred. We identified two species, Pluralibacter gergoviae and Klebsiella pneumoniae, which were associated with poor reproductive outcomes. In vitro antibiotic susceptibility testing identified resistance in both isolates to several antibiotics commonly used in koalas, with the former being multidrug resistant. CONCLUSIONS This study represents the first cultivation-independent characterisation of the koala pouch microbiota, and the first such investigation in marsupials associated with reproductive outcomes. Overall, our findings provide evidence that overgrowth of pathogenic organisms in the pouch during early development is associated with neonatal mortality in captive koalas. Our identification of previously unreported, multidrug resistant P. gergoviae strains linked to mortality also underscores the need for improved screening and monitoring procedures aimed at minimising neonatal mortality in future. Video Abstract.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Toby I Maidment
- Centre for Immunology and Infection Control, Queensland University of Technology, 300 Herston Rd, Brisbane, QLD, 4001, Australia.
| | - Emily R Bryan
- Centre for Immunology and Infection Control, Queensland University of Technology, 300 Herston Rd, Brisbane, QLD, 4001, Australia
| | - Michael Pyne
- Currumbin Wildlife Hospital, 27 Millers Dr, Currumbin, QLD, 4223, Australia
| | - Michele Barnes
- Dreamworld Wildlife Foundation, Dreamworld Parkway, Coomera, QLD, 4209, Australia
| | - Sarah Eccleston
- Currumbin Wildlife Hospital, 27 Millers Dr, Currumbin, QLD, 4223, Australia
| | - Samantha Cunningham
- Dreamworld Wildlife Foundation, Dreamworld Parkway, Coomera, QLD, 4209, Australia
| | - Emma Whitlock
- Currumbin Wildlife Hospital, 27 Millers Dr, Currumbin, QLD, 4223, Australia
| | - Kelsie Redman
- Billabong Zoo Koala and Wildlife Park, 61 Billabong Drive, Port Macquarie, NSW, 2444, Australia
| | - Vere Nicolson
- Paradise Country, Production Drive, Oxenford, QLD, 4210, Australia
| | - Kenneth W Beagley
- Centre for Immunology and Infection Control, Queensland University of Technology, 300 Herston Rd, Brisbane, QLD, 4001, Australia
| | - Elise Pelzer
- Centre for Immunology and Infection Control, Queensland University of Technology, 300 Herston Rd, Brisbane, QLD, 4001, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Holm JB, Carter KA, Ravel J, Brotman RM. Lactobacillus iners and genital health: molecular clues to an enigmatic vaginal species. Curr Infect Dis Rep 2023; 25:67-75. [PMID: 37234911 PMCID: PMC10209668 DOI: 10.1007/s11908-023-00798-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
Purpose of review Vaginal lactobacilli are recognized as important drivers of genital health including protection against bacterial vaginosis and sexually transmitted infections. Lactobacillus iners is distinct from L. crispatus, L. gasseri, and L. jensenii by its high global prevalence in vaginal microbiomes, relatively small genome, production of only L-lactic acid, and inconsistent associations with genital health outcomes. In this review, we summarize our current understanding of the role of L. iners in the vaginal microbiome, highlight the importance of strain-level consideration for this species, and explain that while marker gene-based characterization of the composition of the vaginal microbiota does not capture strain-level resolution, whole metagenome sequencing can aid in expanding our understanding of this species in genital health. Recent findings L. iners exists in the vaginal microbiome as a unique combination of strains. The functional repertoires of these strain combinations are likely wide and contribute to the survival of this species in a variety of vaginal microenvironments. In published studies to date, strain-specific effects are aggregated and may yield imprecise estimates of risk associated with this species. Summary The worldwide high prevalence of Lactobacillus iners warrants more research into its functional roles in the vaginal microbiome and how it may directly impact susceptibility to infections. By incorporating strain-level resolution into future research endeavors, we may begin to appreciate L. iners more thoroughly and identify novel therapeutic targets for a variety of genital health challenges.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Johanna B. Holm
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland
School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of
Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kayla A. Carter
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland
School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jacques Ravel
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland
School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of
Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Rebecca M. Brotman
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland
School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of
Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
D'Alessandro M, Gottardi D, Parolin C, Glicerina VT, Vitali B, Lanciotti R, Patrignani F. Development and characterization of fermented soy milks containing encapsulated or non-encapsulated vaginal probiotics. Lebensm Wiss Technol 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lwt.2023.114713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
|
11
|
Giordani B, Abruzzo A, Parolin C, Foschi C, Laghi L, Marangoni A, Luppi B, Vitali B. Prebiotic Activity of Vaginal Lactobacilli on Bifidobacteria: from Concept to Formulation. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0200922. [PMID: 36602371 PMCID: PMC9927276 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.02009-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The gut of babies born vaginally is rapidly colonized by Bifidobacterium spp. after birth, while in infants born by cesarean section (C-section), the presence of bifidobacteria drops dramatically, increasing the risk of developing gastrointestinal disorders. Considering that newborns naturally come into contact with maternal lactobacilli as they pass through the birth canal, the aim of this work is to exploit for the first time the bifidogenic activity exerted by the cell-free supernatants (CFSs) from lactobacilli of vaginal origin, belonging to the species Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus gasseri, Limosilactobacillus vaginalis, and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum. CFSs were recovered after 7 h, 13 h, and 24 h of fermentation and assessed for the ability to stimulate the planktonic growth and biofilms of Bifidobacterium strains belonging to species widely represented in the gut tract. A bifidogenic effect was observed for all CFSs; such activity was maximal for CFSs recovered in exponential phase and was strongly dependent on the species of lactobacilli. Importantly, no stimulating effects on an intestinal Escherichia coli strain were observed. CFSs from L. vaginalis BC17 showed the best bifidogenic profile since they increased bifidobacterial planktonic growth by up to 432% and biofilm formation by up to 289%. The CFS at 7 h from BC17 was successfully formulated with a hyaluronic acid-based hydrogel aimed at preventing and treating breast sores in lactating women and exerting bifidogenic activity in infants born mainly by C-section. IMPORTANCE Bifidobacteria in the gut tract of infants play crucial roles in the prevention of gastrointestinal diseases and the maturation of the immune system. Consequently, strategies to trigger a bifidogenic shift in the infant gut are highly desirable. Evidences suggest that the presence of a maternal vaginal microbiota dominated by health-promoting lactobacilli and the development of a bifidobacterium-enriched gut microbiota in newborns are interconnected. In this context, we found out that the cell-free supernatants from lactobacilli of vaginal origin were able to effectively stimulate the proliferation of Bifidobacterium spp. grown in free-floating and biofilm forms. The cell-free supernatant from Limosilactobacillus vaginalis BC17 showed excellent bifidogenic behavior, which was preserved even after its incorporation into a nipple formulation for lactating women. Lactobacilli derivatives, such as cell-free supernatants, have gained increasing interest by virtue of their safer profile than that of living cells and can be proposed as an ecosustainable approach to favor gut colonization of infants by bifidobacteria.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Giordani
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Angela Abruzzo
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Carola Parolin
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Claudio Foschi
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Microbiology Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Luca Laghi
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, University of Bologna, Cesena, Italy
| | - Antonella Marangoni
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Barbara Luppi
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Beatrice Vitali
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Tian Q, Zhang T, Wang L, Ma J, Sun X. Gut dysbiosis contributes to chlamydial induction of hydrosalpinx in the upper genital tract. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1142283. [PMID: 37125189 PMCID: PMC10133527 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1142283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis is one of the most common sexually infections that cause infertility, and its genital infection induces tubal adhesion and hydrosalpinx. Intravaginal Chlamydia muridarum infection in mice can induce hydrosalpinx in the upper genital tract and it has been used for studying C. trachomatis pathogenicity. DBA2/J strain mice were known to be resistant to the chlamydial induction of hydrosalpinx. In this study, we took advantage of this feature of DBA2/J mice to evaluate the role of antibiotic induced dysbiosis in chlamydial pathogenicity. Antibiotics (vancomycin and gentamicin) were orally administrated to induce dysbiosis in the gut of DBA2/J mice. The mice with or without antibiotic treatment were evaluated for gut and genital dysbiosis and then intravaginally challenged by C. muridarum. Chlamydial burden was tested and genital pathologies were evaluated. We found that oral antibiotics significantly enhanced chlamydial induction of genital hydrosalpinx. And the antibiotic treatment induced severe dysbiosis in the GI tract, including significantly reduced fecal DNA and increased ratios of firmicutes over bacteroidetes. The oral antibiotic did not alter chlamydial infection or microbiota in the mouse genital tracts. Our study showed that the oral antibiotics-enhanced hydrosalpinx correlated with dysbiosis in gut, providing the evidence for associating gut microbiome with chlamydial genital pathogenicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qi Tian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory for Birth Defect Research and Prevention, Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China
- *Correspondence: Qi Tian,
| | - Tianyuan Zhang
- Key Lab of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Institute Pasteur of Shanghai, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- Tianyuan Zhang,
| | - Luying Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jingyue Ma
- Department of Dermatovenereology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Xin Sun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Adapen C, Réot L, Menu E. Role of the human vaginal microbiota in the regulation of inflammation and sexually transmitted infection acquisition: Contribution of the non-human primate model to a better understanding? FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2022; 4:992176. [PMID: 36560972 PMCID: PMC9763629 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2022.992176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The human vaginal microbiota has a central role in the regulation of the female reproductive tract (FRT) inflammation. Indeed, on one hand an optimal environment leading to a protection against sexually transmitted infections (STI) is associated with a high proportion of Lactobacillus spp. (eubiosis). On the other hand, a more diverse microbiota with a high amount of non-Lactobacillus spp. (dysbiosis) is linked to a higher local inflammation and an increased STI susceptibility. The composition of the vaginal microbiota is influenced by numerous factors that may lead to a dysbiotic environment. In this review, we first discuss how the vaginal microbiota composition affects the local inflammation with a focus on the cytokine profiles, the immune cell recruitment/phenotype and a large part devoted on the interactions between the vaginal microbiota and the neutrophils. Secondly, we analyze the interplay between STI and the vaginal microbiota and describe several mechanisms of action of the vaginal microbiota. Finally, the input of the NHP model in research focusing on the FRT health including vaginal microbiota or STI acquisition/control and treatment is discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cindy Adapen
- Micalis Institute, AgroParisTech, INRAE, Université Paris-Saclay, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Louis Réot
- Université Paris-Saclay, Inserm, Commissariat à l'énergie Atomique et aux énergies Alternatives (CEA), Center for Immunology of Viral, Auto-Immune, Hematological and Bacterial Diseases (IMVA-HB)/Department of Infectious Disease Models and Innovative Therapies (IDMIT), Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
| | - Elisabeth Menu
- Université Paris-Saclay, Inserm, Commissariat à l'énergie Atomique et aux énergies Alternatives (CEA), Center for Immunology of Viral, Auto-Immune, Hematological and Bacterial Diseases (IMVA-HB)/Department of Infectious Disease Models and Innovative Therapies (IDMIT), Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
- Mucosal Immunity and Sexually Transmitted Infection Control (MISTIC) Group, Department of Virology, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Mahajan G, Doherty E, To T, Sutherland A, Grant J, Junaid A, Gulati A, LoGrande N, Izadifar Z, Timilsina SS, Horváth V, Plebani R, France M, Hood-Pishchany I, Rakoff-Nahoum S, Kwon DS, Goyal G, Prantil-Baun R, Ravel J, Ingber DE. Vaginal microbiome-host interactions modeled in a human vagina-on-a-chip. MICROBIOME 2022; 10:201. [PMID: 36434666 PMCID: PMC9701078 DOI: 10.1186/s40168-022-01400-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A dominance of non-iners Lactobacillus species in the vaginal microbiome is optimal and strongly associated with gynecological and obstetric health, while the presence of diverse obligate or facultative anaerobic bacteria and a paucity in Lactobacillus species, similar to communities found in bacterial vaginosis (BV), is considered non-optimal and associated with adverse health outcomes. Various therapeutic strategies are being explored to modulate the composition of the vaginal microbiome; however, there is no human model that faithfully reproduces the vaginal epithelial microenvironment for preclinical validation of potential therapeutics or testing hypotheses about vaginal epithelium-microbiome interactions. RESULTS Here, we describe an organ-on-a-chip (organ chip) microfluidic culture model of the human vaginal mucosa (vagina chip) that is lined by hormone-sensitive, primary vaginal epithelium interfaced with underlying stromal fibroblasts, which sustains a low physiological oxygen concentration in the epithelial lumen. We show that the Vagina Chip can be used to assess colonization by optimal L. crispatus consortia as well as non-optimal Gardnerella vaginalis-containing consortia, and to measure associated host innate immune responses. Co-culture and growth of the L. crispatus consortia on-chip was accompanied by maintenance of epithelial cell viability, accumulation of D- and L-lactic acid, maintenance of a physiologically relevant low pH, and down regulation of proinflammatory cytokines. In contrast, co-culture of G. vaginalis-containing consortia in the vagina chip resulted in epithelial cell injury, a rise in pH, and upregulation of proinflammatory cytokines. CONCLUSION This study demonstrates the potential of applying human organ chip technology to create a preclinical model of the human vaginal mucosa that can be used to better understand interactions between the vaginal microbiome and host tissues, as well as to evaluate the safety and efficacy of live biotherapeutics products. Video Abstract.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gautam Mahajan
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Present address: Emulate, Inc, 27 Drydock Ave, Boston, MA, 02210, USA
| | - Erin Doherty
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Tania To
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Arlene Sutherland
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Jennifer Grant
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Abidemi Junaid
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Aakanksha Gulati
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Nina LoGrande
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Zohreh Izadifar
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Sanjay Sharma Timilsina
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Viktor Horváth
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Roberto Plebani
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Present address: Center on Advanced Studies and Technology, Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, G. d'Annunzio, University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Michael France
- Institute for Genome Sciences and Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Indriati Hood-Pishchany
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts, 02115, USA
| | - Seth Rakoff-Nahoum
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts, 02115, USA
| | - Douglas S Kwon
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT, and Harvard, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Girija Goyal
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Rachelle Prantil-Baun
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Jacques Ravel
- Institute for Genome Sciences and Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Donald E Ingber
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
- Vascular Biology Program and Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
- Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Role of Genital Tract Bacteria in Promoting Endometrial Health in Cattle. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10112238. [DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10112238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Microbiota regulate endometrial health in cattle. It is important to know what a ‘good’ microbiome is, in order to understand pathogeneses of uterine disease. Given that microbial influx into the genital tract of cows at calving is unavoidable, exploring the involvement of genital tract bacteria in promoting endometrial health is warranted. The dysbiosis of endometrial microbiota is associated with benign and malign uterine diseases. The present review discusses current knowledge about the altered endometrial microbiome and the implications of this modulation on endometrial inflammation, ovarian activity, fecundation, pregnancy, and postpartum complications. Intravaginal administration of symbiotic microbes in cattle is a realistic alternative to antibiotic and hormone therapy to treat uterine disease. Genital microbial diversity can be modeled by nutrition, as the energy balance would improve the growth of specific microbial populations. It may be that probiotics that alter the endometrial microbiome could provide viable alternatives to existing therapies for uterine disease in cattle.
Collapse
|
16
|
Saha UB, Saroj SD. Lactic acid bacteria: prominent player in the fight against human pathogens. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2022; 20:1435-1453. [PMID: 36154442 DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2022.2128765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The human microbiome is a unique repository of diverse bacteria. Over 1000 microbial species reside in the human gut, which predominantly influences the host's internal environment and plays a significant role in host health. Lactic acid bacteria have long been employed for multiple purposes, ranging from food to medicines. Lactobacilli, which are often used in commercial food fermentation, have improved to the point that they might be helpful in medical applications. AREAS COVERED This review summarises various clinical and experimental evidence on efficacy of lactobacilli in treating a wide range of infections. Both laboratory based and clinical studies have been discussed. EXPERT OPINION Lactobacilli are widely accepted as safe biological treatments and host immune modulators (GRAS- Generally regarded as safe) by the US Food and Drug Administration and Qualified Presumption of Safety. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of lactobacilli in the treatment and pathogenicity of bacterial infections can help with the prediction and development of innovative therapeutics aimed at pathogens which have gained resistance to antimicrobials. To formulate effective lactobacilli based therapy significant research on the effectiveness of different lactobacilli strains and its association with demographic distribution is required. Also, the side effects of such therapy needs to be evaluated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ujjayni B Saha
- Symbiosis School of Biological Sciences, Symbiosis International (Deemed University), Symbiosis Knowledge Village, Lavale, Pune, India
| | - Sunil D Saroj
- Symbiosis School of Biological Sciences, Symbiosis International (Deemed University), Symbiosis Knowledge Village, Lavale, Pune, India
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Silva JA, Marchesi A, Aristimuño Ficosecco MC, Nader‐Macías MEF. Functional and Safety Characterization of Beneficial Vaginal Lactic Acid Bacteria (
BVLAB
) for the Design of Vaginal Hygiene Products. J Appl Microbiol 2022; 133:3041-3058. [DOI: 10.1111/jam.15752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Alejandra Silva
- CERELA‐CONICET (Centro de Referencia para Lactobacilos‐ Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas de Argentina). Chacabuco 145. 4000. San Miguel de Tucumán. Argentina
| | - Antonella Marchesi
- CERELA‐CONICET (Centro de Referencia para Lactobacilos‐ Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas de Argentina). Chacabuco 145. 4000. San Miguel de Tucumán. Argentina
| | - María Cecilia Aristimuño Ficosecco
- CERELA‐CONICET (Centro de Referencia para Lactobacilos‐ Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas de Argentina). Chacabuco 145. 4000. San Miguel de Tucumán. Argentina
| | - María Elena Fátima Nader‐Macías
- CERELA‐CONICET (Centro de Referencia para Lactobacilos‐ Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas de Argentina). Chacabuco 145. 4000. San Miguel de Tucumán. Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Fang B, Li Q, Wan Z, OuYang Z, Zhang Q. Exploring the Association Between Cervical Microbiota and HR-HPV Infection Based on 16S rRNA Gene and Metagenomic Sequencing. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:922554. [PMID: 35800388 PMCID: PMC9253761 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.922554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The relationship between the cervico-vaginal microbiome and high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) is well observed. However, there is a lack of adequate research regarding the cervical microbiota in HR-HPV infection. Most published research results have used 16S rRNA gene sequencing technology; this technology only focuses on marker sequences, resulting in incomplete gene information acquisition. Metagenomic sequencing technology can effectively compensate for the deficiency of 16S rRNA gene sequencing, thus improving the analysis of microbiota function. Cervical swab samples from 20 females with HR-HPV infection and 20 uninfected (Control) women were analyzed through 16S rRNA gene and metagenomic sequencing. Our results indicated that the composition and function of the cervical microbiota of HR-HPV infection differed notably from that of control women. Compared with control women, Firmicutes was decreased during HR-HPV infection, whereas Actinobacteria was increased. At the genus level, Lactobacillus was enriched in control women, while levels of Gardnerella and Bifidobacterium were lower. At the species level, Lactobacillus crispatus, L. jensenii, and L. helveticus were enriched in control women; these were the top three species with biomarker significance between the two groups. Eight pathways and four KEGG orthologies of the cervical microbiota of statistical differences were identified between the HR-HPV infection and control women. Collectively, our study described the cervical microbiota and its potential function during HR-HPV infection. Biomarkers of cervical microbiota and the changed bacterial metabolic pathways and metabolites can help clarify the pathogenic mechanism of HR-HPV infection, making them promising targets for clinical treatment and intervention for HR-HPV infection and cervical carcinoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bingyan Fang
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Gynecology, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qun Li
- Graduate Collaborative Training Base of Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Zixian Wan
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Gynecology, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhenbo OuYang
- Department of Gynecology, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiushi Zhang
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Gynecology, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Qiushi Zhang,
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Kaul R, Liu CM, Park DE, Galiwango RM, Tobian AAR, Prodger JL. The Penis, the Vagina and HIV Risk: Key Differences (Aside from the Obvious). Viruses 2022; 14:v14061164. [PMID: 35746636 PMCID: PMC9227947 DOI: 10.3390/v14061164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Globally, most Human Immunodeficiency Virus type 1 (HIV) transmission occurs through vaginal–penile sex (heterosexual transmission). The local immune environment at the site of HIV exposure is an important determinant of whether exposure during sex will lead to productive infection, and the vaginal and penile immune milieus are each critically shaped by the local microbiome. However, there are key differences in the microbial drivers of inflammation and immune quiescence at these tissue sites. In both, a high abundance of anaerobic taxa (e.g., Prevotella) is associated with an increased local density of HIV target cells and an increased risk of acquiring HIV through sex. However, the taxa that have been associated to date with increased risk in the vagina and penis are not identical. Just as importantly, the microbiota associated with comparatively less inflammation and HIV risk—i.e., the optimal microbiota—are very different at the two sites. In the vagina, Lactobacillus spp. are immunoregulatory and may protect against HIV acquisition, whereas on the penis, “skin type” flora such as Corynebacterium are associated with reduced inflammation. Compared to its vaginal counterpart, much less is known about the dynamics of the penile microbiome, the ability of clinical interventions to alter the penile microbiome, or the impact of natural/induced microbiome alterations on penile immunology and HIV risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rupert Kaul
- Departments of Medicine and Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada;
- Department of Medicine, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Cindy M. Liu
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA; (C.M.L.); (D.E.P.)
| | - Daniel E. Park
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA; (C.M.L.); (D.E.P.)
| | | | - Aaron A. R. Tobian
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA;
| | - Jessica L. Prodger
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Sexually transmitted infection screening to prevent adverse birth and newborn outcomes: study protocol for a randomized-controlled hybrid-effectiveness trial. Trials 2022; 23:441. [PMID: 35610666 PMCID: PMC9128231 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-022-06400-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) during pregnancy are associated with adverse birth outcomes, including preterm birth, low birth weight, perinatal death, and congenital infections such as increased mother-to-child HIV transmission. Prevalence of STIs among pregnant women in South Africa remains high, with most women being asymptomatic for their infection(s). Unfortunately, most STIs remain undetected and untreated due to standard practice syndromic management in accordance with World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. Although lab-based and point-of-care molecular tests are available, optimal screening strategies during pregnancy, their health impact, and cost-effectiveness are unknown. Methods We will implement a 3-arm (1:1:1) type-1 hybrid effectiveness-implementation randomized-controlled trial (RCT). We will enroll 2500 pregnant women attending their first antenatal care (ANC) visit for their current pregnancy at participating health facilities in Buffalo City Metro District, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Participants allocated to arms 1 and 2 (intervention) will receive GeneXpert® point-of-care diagnostic testing for Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis, and Trichomonas vaginalis, with same-day treatment for detected infection(s). Arm 1 will additionally receive a test-of-cure 3 weeks post-treatment, while Arm 2 will receive a repeat test at 30–34 weeks’ gestation. Those allocated to Arm 3 will receive syndromic management (standard-of-care). The RE-AIM framework will be used to guide collection of implementation indicators to inform potential future scale up. Primary outcome measures include (1) frequency of adverse birth outcomes among study arms, defined by a composite measure of low birth weight and pre-term delivery, and (2) change in STI prevalence between baseline and birth outcome among intervention arms and compared to standard-of-care. Estimates and comparative costs of the different screening strategies relative to standard-of-care and the costs of managing adverse birth outcomes will be calculated. Cost-effectiveness will be assessed per STI and disability-adjusted life year averted. Discussion This trial is the first RCT designed to identify optimal, cost-effective screening strategies that decrease the burden of STIs during pregnancy and reduce adverse birth outcomes. Demonstrating the impact of diagnostic screening and treatment, compared to syndromic management, on birth outcomes will provide critical evidence to inform changes to WHO guidelines for syndromic management of STIs during pregnancy. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04446611. Registered on 25 June 2020.
Collapse
|
21
|
First-Void Urine Microbiome in Women with Chlamydia trachomatis Infection. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23105625. [PMID: 35628436 PMCID: PMC9143427 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23105625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) is the agent of the most common bacterial sexually transmitted infection worldwide. Until now, little information is available about the microbial composition of urine samples during CT urethritis. Therefore, in this study, we characterized the microbiome and metabolome profiles of first-void urines in a cohort of women with CT urethral infection attending an STI clinic. Methods: Based on CT positivity by nucleic acid amplification techniques on urine samples, the enrolled women were divided into two groups, i.e., “CT-negative” (n = 21) and “CT-positive” (n = 11). Urine samples were employed for (i) the microbiome profile analysis by means of 16s rRNA gene sequencing and (ii) the metabolome analysis by 1H-NMR. Results: Irrespective of CT infection, the microbiome of first-void urines was mainly dominated by Lactobacillus, L. iners and L. crispatus being the most represented species. CT-positive samples were characterized by reduced microbial biodiversity compared to the controls. Moreover, a significant reduction of the Mycoplasmataceae family—in particular, of the Ureaplasma parvum species—was observed during CT infection. The Chlamydia genus was positively correlated with urine hippurate and lactulose. Conclusions: These data can help elucidate the pathogenesis of chlamydial urogenital infections, as well as to set up innovative diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
Collapse
|
22
|
Chen H, Min S, Wang L, Zhao L, Luo F, Lei W, Wen Y, Luo L, Zhou Q, Peng L, Li Z. Lactobacillus Modulates Chlamydia Infectivity and Genital Tract Pathology in vitro and in vivo. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:877223. [PMID: 35572713 PMCID: PMC9098263 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.877223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Since we previously reported that women infected with chlamydia had a significant overall reduction in Lactobacillus in the vagina microbiota as compared to those uninfected individuals; the interactions between the altered Lactobacillus and Chlamydia trachomatis, on the other hand, need to be elucidated. Here, we employed both in vitro and in vivo models to evaluate the effects of this changed Lactobacillus on Chlamydia infection. We found that L. iners, L. crispatus, L. jensenii, L. salivarius, L. gasseri, L. mucosae, and L. reuteri all significantly reduced C. trachomatis infection in a dose- and time-dependent manner. The strongest anti-Chlamydia effects were found in L. crispatus (90 percent reduction), whereas the poorest was found in L. iners (50 percent reduction). D (–) lactic acid was the key component in Lactobacillus cell-free supernatants (CFS) to inactivate Chlamydia EBs, showing a positive correlation with the anti-Chlamydia activity. The effects of D (–) lactic acid were substantially attenuated by neutralizing the pH value to 7.0. In vivo, mice intravaginally inoculated with Lactobacillus mixtures (L. crispatus, L. reuteri, and L. iners at a ratio of 1:1:1), but not single Lactobacillus, after genital Chlamydia infection, significantly attenuated the levels of Chlamydia live organism shedding in both the lower genital tract and the intestinal tract, reduced cytokines production (TNF-α, IFN-γ, and IL-1β) in the vagina, and lessened upper genital tract inflammation and pathogenicity. Taken together, these data demonstrate that Lactobacillus inhibits Chlamydia infectivity both in vivo and in vitro, providing useful information for the development of Lactobacillus as adjunctive treatment in Chlamydia infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hongliang Chen
- Chenzhou No.1 People's Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Chenzhou, China.,Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hengyang Medical College, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, University of South China, Hengyang, China.,Chenzhou No.1 People's Hospital, The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Chenzhou, China
| | - Shuling Min
- Chenzhou No.1 People's Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Chenzhou, China.,Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hengyang Medical College, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Li Wang
- Chenzhou No.1 People's Hospital, The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Chenzhou, China
| | - Lanhua Zhao
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hengyang Medical College, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Fangzhen Luo
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hengyang Medical College, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Wenbo Lei
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hengyang Medical College, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Yating Wen
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hengyang Medical College, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Lipei Luo
- Chenzhou No.1 People's Hospital, The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Chenzhou, China
| | - Qianting Zhou
- Chenzhou No.1 People's Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Chenzhou, China
| | - Lixiu Peng
- Chenzhou No.1 People's Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Chenzhou, China
| | - Zhongyu Li
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hengyang Medical College, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Sharma J, Gupta K, Schwebke JR, Geisler WM, Muzny CA. Association of Bacterial Vaginosis With Higher Vaginal Indole Levels. Sex Transm Dis 2022; 49:e53-e55. [PMID: 34561371 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT We adapted a simple hydroxylamine-based indole assay to detect indole from stored vaginal swab specimens from women with and without bacterial vaginosis (BV). Women with BV had significantly higher vaginal indole levels compared with women without BV (6451.5 vs 5632.4 μM; P = 0.01), suggesting that indole-producing bacteria are a component of BV.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jyoti Sharma
- From the Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Adnane M, Chapwanya A. A Review of the Diversity of the Genital Tract Microbiome and Implications for Fertility of Cattle. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12040460. [PMID: 35203168 PMCID: PMC8868056 DOI: 10.3390/ani12040460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cattle have a genital microbiome that is established early in life, even before calving. Microbial influx into the reproductive system of cows, during calving or mating, is unavoidable and is likely to alter the commensal microflora composition. It is now well established that a commensal endometrial flora is largely responsible for the overall fertility of cows. These microbes are important for maintenance of structural integrity of the genital mucosal barrier, immunomodulation, and protection against pathogens. Further, the genital microbiome functions in the semiochemical communication between a male and female. An optimal balance between the abundance and diversity of the microbiome is essential to promote female genital tract health. Disruption of this balance leads to dysbiosis and genital diseases and perturbed fertility. As part of the global strategy of One World, One Health, there is a need to reduce antibiotic use in animals. This area of research has the potential to expand the knowledge about the nexus between the endometrial microbiome and fertility including being probiotic in different species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mounir Adnane
- Institute of Veterinary Sciences, University of Tiaret, Tiaret 14000, Algeria
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +21-3542-477061
| | - Aspinas Chapwanya
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, West Indies, Basseterre 00265, Saint Kitts and Nevis;
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Costantini PE, Vanpouille C, Firrincieli A, Cappelletti M, Margolis L, Ñahui Palomino RA. Extracellular Vesicles Generated by Gram-Positive Bacteria Protect Human Tissues Ex Vivo From HIV-1 Infection. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 11:822882. [PMID: 35145925 PMCID: PMC8821821 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.822882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Vaginal microbiota dominated by lactobacilli protects women from sexually transmitted infection, in particular HIV-1. This protection is, in part, mediated by Lactobacillus-released extracellular vesicles (EVs). Here, we investigated whether EVs derived from other Gram-positive bacteria also present in healthy vaginas, in particular Staphylococcus aureus, Gardnerella vaginalis, Enterococcus faecium, and Enterococcus faecalis, can affect vaginal HIV-1 infection. We found that EVs released by these bacteria protect human cervico-vaginal tissues ex vivo and isolated cells from HIV-1 infection by inhibiting HIV-1-cell receptor interactions. This inhibition was associated with a diminished exposure of viral Env by steric hindrance of gp120 or gp120 modification evidenced by the failure of EV-treated virions to bind to nanoparticle-coupled anti-Env antibodies. Furthermore, we found that protein components associated with EV’s outer surface are critical for EV-mediated protection from HIV-1 infection since treatment of bacteria-released EVs with proteinase K abolished their anti-HIV-1 effect. We identified numerous EV-associated proteins that may be involved in this protection. The identification of EVs with specific proteins that suppress HIV-1 may lead to the development of novel strategies for the prevention of HIV-1 transmission.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paolo E. Costantini
- Section of Intercellular Interaction, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Christophe Vanpouille
- Section of Intercellular Interaction, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Andrea Firrincieli
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Martina Cappelletti
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Leonid Margolis
- Section of Intercellular Interaction, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
- *Correspondence: Leonid Margolis,
| | - Rogers A. Ñahui Palomino
- Section of Intercellular Interaction, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Krakowsky Y, Potter E, Hallarn J, Monari B, Wilcox H, Bauer G, Ravel J, Prodger JL. The Effect of Gender-Affirming Medical Care on the Vaginal and Neovaginal Microbiomes of Transgender and Gender-Diverse People. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 11:769950. [PMID: 35127550 PMCID: PMC8814107 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.769950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Transgender and gender diverse individuals may seek gender-affirming medical care, such as hormone therapy or surgery, to produce primary and/or secondary sex characteristics that are more congruent with their gender. Gender-affirming medical care for transmasculine individuals can include testosterone therapy, which suppresses circulating estrogen and can lead to changes in the vaginal epithelium that are reminiscent of the post-menopausal period in cisgender females. Among transfeminine individuals, gender-affirming medical care can include vaginoplasty, which is the surgical creation of a vulva and neovaginal canal, commonly using penile and scrotal skin. The effect of gender-affirming medical care on the vagina of transmasculine individuals and on the neovagina of transfeminine individuals is poorly characterized. This review summarizes what is known of the epithelium and local microbiota of the testosterone-exposed vagina and the neovagina. We focus on potential pathogens and determinants of gynecological health and identify key knowledge gaps for future research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yonah Krakowsky
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Women’s College Hospital and Mount Sinai Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada,Transition Related Surgery, Department of Surgery, Women’s College Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Emery Potter
- Transition Related Surgery, Department of Surgery, Women’s College Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jason Hallarn
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Bern Monari
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Hannah Wilcox
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Greta Bauer
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Jacques Ravel
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States,Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Jessica L. Prodger
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada,*Correspondence: Jessica L. Prodger,
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Engineering of Vaginal Lactobacilli to Express Fluorescent Proteins Enables the Analysis of Their Mixture in Nanofibers. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222413631. [PMID: 34948426 PMCID: PMC8708671 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222413631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Lactobacilli are a promising natural tool against vaginal dysbiosis and infections. However, new local delivery systems and additional knowledge about their distribution and mechanism of action would contribute to the development of effective medicine. This will be facilitated by the introduction of the techniques for effective, inexpensive, and real-time tracking of these probiotics following their release. Here, we engineered three model vaginal lactobacilli (Lactobacillus crispatus ATCC 33820, Lactobacillus gasseri ATCC 33323, and Lactobacillus jensenii ATCC 25258) and a control Lactobacillus plantarum ATCC 8014 to express fluorescent proteins with different spectral properties, including infrared fluorescent protein (IRFP), green fluorescent protein (GFP), red fluorescent protein (mCherry), and blue fluorescent protein (mTagBFP2). The expression of these fluorescent proteins differed between the Lactobacillus species and enabled quantification and discrimination between lactobacilli, with the longer wavelength fluorescent proteins showing superior resolving power. Each Lactobacillus strain was labeled with an individual fluorescent protein and incorporated into poly (ethylene oxide) nanofibers using electrospinning, as confirmed by fluorescence and scanning electron microscopy. The lactobacilli retained their fluorescence in nanofibers, as well as after nanofiber dissolution. To summarize, vaginal lactobacilli were incorporated into electrospun nanofibers to provide a potential solid vaginal delivery system, and the fluorescent proteins were introduced to distinguish between them and allow their tracking in the future probiotic-delivery studies.
Collapse
|
28
|
De Seta F, Larsen B. Antimicrobial Activity of a Vaginal Gel Formulation: Considerations Related to Vaginal Infection and Dysbiosis. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10121576. [PMID: 34959532 PMCID: PMC8706553 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10121576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Many non-prescription preparations intended to treat or alleviate symptoms of vaginal infection are available in American and European markets, but many have scant preclinical or clinical research underpinning. Respecta®Balance Gel (RBG) is marketed as an adjunct to probiotic treatment and its relevant antimicrobial properties were studied. Key findings with the manufacturer-supplied gel showed reduced turbidity in broth-dilution tests by 50% against Candida albicans and Candida glabrata at RBG concentrations 0.2-0.4% of neat product, respectively. A 50% reduction in turbidity of Escherichia coli, Streptococcus agalactiae, Enterococcus faecalis ranged from 1.6-2.2% and Gardnerella vaginalis was shown by flow cytometry counts to undergo a 50% reduction at 0.3% RBG. Propidium iodide staining indicated a rapid reduction of cell integrity of G. vaginalis almost immediately while after 4 h 45% of E. coli cells were stained. The lactic acid in BHI inhibited bacteria and yeast at concentrations ranging from 0.2-1.8% but inhibition was not solely due to pH since a 1:4 dilution of RBG resulted in a pH near neutral (6.75). Other findings showed biofilm accumulation assessed after 10-days exposure of Candida spp. to RBG and was reduced by an average of one-third (community strains) to one-half (drug-resistant strains). One excipient of the RBG, disodium EDTA, inhibited the growth of bacteria and yeast at concentrations below those present in RBG and may accentuate the activity of the host defense factor, lactoferrin. We conclude that RBG is a potent inhibitor of vaginal microorganisms relevant to vaginitis or intrapartum infections and contains excipients that may contribute to its antimicrobial activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesco De Seta
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Trieste, 34149 Trieste, Italy;
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS “Burlo Garofolo”, 34137 Trieste, Italy
| | - Bryan Larsen
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Marian University, 3200 Cold Spring Road, Indianapolis, IN 46222, USA
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Unravelling the functional and technological potential of soy milk based microencapsulated Lactobacillus crispatus and Lactobacillus gasseri. J Funct Foods 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2021.104745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
|
30
|
Parolin C, Croatti V, Laghi L, Giordani B, Tondi MR, De Gregorio PR, Foschi C, Vitali B. Lactobacillus Biofilms Influence Anti- Candida Activity. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:750368. [PMID: 34777300 PMCID: PMC8586509 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.750368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Lactobacilli are the dominant members of the healthy human vaginal microbiota and represent the first defense line from pathogen infection, including vulvovaginal candidiasis. Biofilm is the predominant microbial growth form in nature, and the formation of biofilms inside the human body has important implications in health and disease. In particular, the formation of biofilm by members of the human resident microbiota is desirable, as it can improve microbial persistence and influence functionality. In the present study, we investigated the capability of 16 vaginal Lactobacillus strains (belonging to Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus gasseri, Lactobacillus vaginalis, and Lactobacillus plantarum species) to form biofilms, and we correlated their mode of growth to anti-Candida activity. L. plantarum strains were the best biofilm producers, and high variability was registered in the level of biofilm formation among L. crispatus and L. gasseri strains. Culture supernatants derived from Lactobacillus biofilm and planktonic growth were tested toward a panel of Candida clinical isolates (Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, Candida lusitaniae, Candida tropicalis, Candida krusei, and Candida parapsilosis) and their metabolome assessed by 1H-NMR. L. crispatus and L. plantarum strains exhibited the best fungistatic profile, and biofilms enhanced their anti-Candida activity; on the contrary, L. gasseri strains were more effective when grown in a planktonic mode. Biofilm/planktonic mode of growth also affects Lactobacillus metabolism, mainly influencing nitrogen and amino acid pathways, and anti-Candida activity is instead strictly related to carbohydrate metabolism. The present study underlined the strict interdependence between microbial mode of growth, metabolism, and functional properties. Biofilm formation by members of the healthy human microbiota represents a crucial issue in the field of microbial physiology and host–microbiota interactions, beyond supporting the development of new antimycotic strategies based on probiotics grown in adherence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carola Parolin
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Vanessa Croatti
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Luca Laghi
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, Centre of Foodomics, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Barbara Giordani
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Maria Rosaria Tondi
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Claudio Foschi
- Department of Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Section of Microbiology, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Beatrice Vitali
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Abstract
The introduction of next generation sequencing techniques has enabled the characterization of the urinary tract microbiome, which resulted in the rejection of the long-held notion of urinary bladder sterility. Since the discovery and confirmation of the human bladder microbiome, an increasing number of studies have defined this microbial community and understand better its relationship to urinary pathologies. The composition of microbial communities in the urinary tract is linked to a variety of urinary diseases. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of current information about the urinary microbiome and diseases as well as the development of novel treatment methods.
Collapse
|
32
|
Wolf EA, Rettig HC, Lupatsii M, Schlüter B, Schäfer K, Friedrich D, Graspeuntner S, Rupp J. Culturomics Approaches Expand the Diagnostic Accuracy for Sexually Transmitted Infections. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221910815. [PMID: 34639153 PMCID: PMC8509341 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2021] [Revised: 09/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a major health concern with clinical manifestations being acknowledged to cause severe reproductive impairment. Research in infectious diseases has been centered around the known major pathogens for decades. However, we have just begun to understand that the microbiota of the female genital tract is of particular importance for disease initiation, infection progression, and pathological outcome. Thus, we are now aware that many poorly described, partially not yet known, or cultured bacteria may pave the way for an infection and/or contribute to disease severity. While sequencing-based methods are an important step in diagnosing STIs, culture-based methods are still the gold-standard method in diagnostic routine, providing the opportunity to distinguish phenotypic traits of bacteria. However, current diagnostic culture routines suffer from several limitations reducing the content of information about vaginal microbiota. A detailed characterization of microbiota-associated factors is needed to assess the impact of single-bacterial isolates from the vaginal community on vaginal health and the containment of STIs. Here we provide current concepts to enable modern culture routines and create new ideas to improve diagnostic approaches with a conjunct usage of bioinformatics. We aim to enable scientists and physicians alike to overcome long-accepted limitations in culturing bacteria of interest to the human health. Eventually, this may improve the quality of culture-based diagnostics, facilitate a research interface, and lead to a broader understanding of the role of vaginal microbiota in reproductive health and STIs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ellinor Anna Wolf
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, University of Lübeck, 23538 Lübeck, Germany; (E.A.W.); (H.C.R.); (M.L.); (K.S.); (D.F.); (S.G.)
| | - Hannah Clara Rettig
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, University of Lübeck, 23538 Lübeck, Germany; (E.A.W.); (H.C.R.); (M.L.); (K.S.); (D.F.); (S.G.)
| | - Mariia Lupatsii
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, University of Lübeck, 23538 Lübeck, Germany; (E.A.W.); (H.C.R.); (M.L.); (K.S.); (D.F.); (S.G.)
| | - Britta Schlüter
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, 23538 Lübeck, Germany;
| | - Kathrin Schäfer
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, University of Lübeck, 23538 Lübeck, Germany; (E.A.W.); (H.C.R.); (M.L.); (K.S.); (D.F.); (S.G.)
| | - Dirk Friedrich
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, University of Lübeck, 23538 Lübeck, Germany; (E.A.W.); (H.C.R.); (M.L.); (K.S.); (D.F.); (S.G.)
| | - Simon Graspeuntner
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, University of Lübeck, 23538 Lübeck, Germany; (E.A.W.); (H.C.R.); (M.L.); (K.S.); (D.F.); (S.G.)
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems, 23538 Lübeck, Germany
| | - Jan Rupp
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, University of Lübeck, 23538 Lübeck, Germany; (E.A.W.); (H.C.R.); (M.L.); (K.S.); (D.F.); (S.G.)
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems, 23538 Lübeck, Germany
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Chen H, Wang L, Zhao L, Luo L, Min S, Wen Y, Lei W, Shu M, Li Z. Alterations of Vaginal Microbiota in Women With Infertility and Chlamydia trachomatis Infection. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:698840. [PMID: 34414130 PMCID: PMC8370387 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.698840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis (C. trachomatis) is the most common etiological agent of bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs) worldwide and causes serious health sequelae such as cervicitis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and even infertility if ascending from the lower to the upper female genital tract. Previous studies have revealed the pivotal role of vaginal microbiota in susceptibility to STIs. However, alterations in the vaginal microbiota in women who are infertile and infected with C. trachomatis remain unknown. This study used metagenomic analysis of sequenced 16S rRNA gene amplicons to examine the vaginal microbial profiles of women with tubal infertility who were C. trachomatis-negative and those who were C. trachomatis-positive pre- and post-antibiotic treatment. Women who were C. trachomatis-negative and deemed healthy were recruited as references of eubiosis and dysbiosis. Women with tubal infertility and C. trachomatis infection presented a unique Lactobacillus iners-dominated vaginal microbiota rather than one dominated by Lactobacillus crispatus and displayed a decrease in Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Enterobacter, Atopobium, and Streptococcus, accompanied by decreased levels of cytokines such as interferon (IFN)-γ and interleukin (IL)-10. This altered vaginal microbiota could be restored with varying degrees after standard treatment for C. trachomatis. This shift could be a predictive vaginal microbiota signature for C. trachomatis infection among females with tubal infertility, while no significant differences in phylum, class, and operational taxonomic unit (OTU) levels were observed between women with tubal infertility who were C. trachomatis-negative and healthy controls. This is the first study to provide data on the association of vaginal microbiota with C. trachomatis infection among women with tubal infertility and highlights unprecedented potential opportunities to predict C. trachomatis infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hongliang Chen
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hengyang Medical College, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, University of South China, Hengyang, China.,Chenzhou No.1 People's Hospital, The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Chenzhou, China
| | - Li Wang
- Chenzhou No.1 People's Hospital, The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Chenzhou, China
| | - Lanhua Zhao
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hengyang Medical College, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Lipei Luo
- Chenzhou No.1 People's Hospital, The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Chenzhou, China
| | - Shuling Min
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hengyang Medical College, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, University of South China, Hengyang, China.,Chenzhou No.1 People's Hospital, The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Chenzhou, China
| | - Yating Wen
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hengyang Medical College, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Wenbo Lei
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hengyang Medical College, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Mingyi Shu
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hengyang Medical College, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Zhongyu Li
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hengyang Medical College, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Auriemma RS, Scairati R, Del Vecchio G, Liccardi A, Verde N, Pirchio R, Pivonello R, Ercolini D, Colao A. The Vaginal Microbiome: A Long Urogenital Colonization Throughout Woman Life. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:686167. [PMID: 34295836 PMCID: PMC8290858 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.686167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Vaginal microbial niche is a dynamic ecosystem, composed by more than 200 bacterial species which are influenced by genes, ethnic background and environmental-behavioral factors. Several lines of evidence have well documented that vaginal microbiome constantly changes over the course of woman’s life, so to exert an important impact on woman quality of life, from newborn to post-menopausal ages. This review aims at analyzing the role of vaginal microbiome in the maintenance of woman’s homeostasis and at tracking critical changes that commonly occur across woman’s lifetime. The role of hormone replacement therapy in the modulation of vaginal microbiome composition and in the improvement of vaginal wellness in postmenopausal women with decreasing levels of circulating estrogen is discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Renata S Auriemma
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Università Federico II di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Roberta Scairati
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Università Federico II di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Guendalina Del Vecchio
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Università Federico II di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Alessia Liccardi
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Università Federico II di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Nunzia Verde
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Università Federico II di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Rosa Pirchio
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Università Federico II di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Rosario Pivonello
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Università Federico II di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Danilo Ercolini
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Annamaria Colao
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Università Federico II di Napoli, Naples, Italy.,United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), Chair for Health Education and Sustainable Development, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Abbasi A, Aghebati-Maleki L, Homayouni-Rad A. The promising biological role of postbiotics derived from probiotic Lactobacillus species in reproductive health. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2021; 62:8829-8841. [PMID: 34152234 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2021.1935701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Recent investigations have meaningfully developed our knowledge of the features of the reproductive microbiome/metabolome profile and their relations with host responses to offer an optimal milieu for the development of the embryo during the peri-implantation period and throughout pregnancy. In this context, the establishment of homeostatic circumstances in the Female Reproductive Tract (FRT), in various physiological periods, is a significant challenge, which appears the application of postbiotics can facilitate the achievement of this goal. So, currently, scientific literature confirms that postbiotics due to their antimicrobial, antiviral, and immunomodulatory properties can be considered as a novel biotherapeutic approach. Future investigation in this field will shed more translational mechanistic understanding of the interaction of the postbiotics derived from vaginal Lactobacilli with females' health and reproduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amin Abbasi
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Nutrition & Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Aziz Homayouni-Rad
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Nutrition & Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Han Y, Liu Z, Chen T. Role of Vaginal Microbiota Dysbiosis in Gynecological Diseases and the Potential Interventions. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:643422. [PMID: 34220737 PMCID: PMC8249587 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.643422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Vaginal microbiota dysbiosis, characterized by the loss of Lactobacillus dominance and increase of microbial diversity, is closely related to gynecological diseases; thus, intervention on microbiota composition is significant and promising in the treatment of gynecological diseases. Currently, antibiotics and/or probiotics are the mainstay of treatment, which show favorable therapeutic effects but also bring problems such as drug resistance and high recurrence. In this review, we discuss the role of vaginal microbiota dysbiosis in various gynecological infectious and non-infectious diseases, as well as the current and potential interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yiwen Han
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Queen Mary School, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Zhaoxia Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Tingtao Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and the Technologies, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Costantini PE, Firrincieli A, Fedi S, Parolin C, Viti C, Cappelletti M, Vitali B. Insight into phenotypic and genotypic differences between vaginal Lactobacillus crispatus BC5 and Lactobacillus gasseri BC12 to unravel nutritional and stress factors influencing their metabolic activity. Microb Genom 2021; 7. [PMID: 34096840 PMCID: PMC8461478 DOI: 10.1099/mgen.0.000575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The vaginal microbiota, normally characterized by lactobacilli presence, is crucial for vaginal health. Members belonging to L. crispatus and L. gasseri species exert crucial protective functions against pathogens, although a total comprehension of factors that influence their dominance in healthy women is still lacking. Here we investigated the complete genome sequence and comprehensive phenotypic profile of L. crispatus strain BC5 and L. gasseri strain BC12, two vaginal strains featured by anti-bacterial and anti-viral activities. Phenotype microarray (PM) results revealed an improved capacity of BC5 to utilize different carbon sources as compared to BC12, although some specific carbon sources that can be associated to the human diet were only metabolized by BC12, i.e. uridine, amygdalin, tagatose. Additionally, the two strains were mostly distinct in the capacity to utilize the nitrogen sources under analysis. On the other hand, BC12 showed tolerance/resistance towards twice the number of stressors (i.e. antibiotics, toxic metals etc.) with respect to BC5. The divergent phenotypes observed in PM were supported by the identification in either BC5 or BC12 of specific genetic determinants that were found to be part of the core genome of each species. The PM results in combination with comparative genome data provide insights into the possible environmental factors and genetic traits supporting the predominance of either L. crispatus BC5 or L. gasseri BC12 in the vaginal niche, giving also indications for metabolic predictions at the species level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrea Firrincieli
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBit), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Stefano Fedi
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBit), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Carola Parolin
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBit), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Carlo Viti
- Department of Agriculture, Food, Environment and Forestry (DAGRI), University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Martina Cappelletti
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBit), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Beatrice Vitali
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBit), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Foschi C, Parolin C, Giordani B, Morselli S, Luppi B, Vitali B, Marangoni A. Lactobacillus crispatus BC1 Biosurfactant Counteracts the Infectivity of Chlamydia trachomatis Elementary Bodies. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9050975. [PMID: 33946391 PMCID: PMC8147163 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9050975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Lactobacilli-derived biosurfactants (BS) have shown promising effects as antimicrobial molecules. Since Lactobacillus crispatus plays a crucial role in maintaining vaginal eubiosis, BS from this species could represent novel therapeutic agents to counteract sexually transmitted pathogens, such as Chlamydia trachomatis (CT). The aim of the present study was to assess the inhibitory effects of a BS produced by the vaginal strain L. crispatus BC1 on the infectivity of CT elementary bodies (EBs). For concentrations ranging between 1 and 0.5 mg/mL at 60-min contact time, L. crispatus BC1 BS displayed a highly significant anti-CT activity, with about 50% reduction of EB infectivity towards HeLa cells. To identify the components responsible for chlamydial inhibition, a panel of selected fatty acids, including those present in BS lipopeptidic structure, was tested against CT EBs. Pentadecanoic acid, myristic acid, β-hydroxy-myristic acid, and β-hydroxy-palmitic acid were able to significantly reduce EBs infectivity up to 5–0.5 µg/mL, concentrations that resulted to be non-toxic for HeLa cells. These data can contribute to the understanding of the biological role of lactobacilli in the vaginal niche, as well as to promote the application of their produced BS as an innovative and antibiotic-sparing anti-chlamydial strategy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Foschi
- Microbiology, DIMES, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (C.F.); (S.M.); (A.M.)
| | - Carola Parolin
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy; (B.G.); (B.L.); (B.V.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-051-2088750
| | - Barbara Giordani
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy; (B.G.); (B.L.); (B.V.)
| | - Sara Morselli
- Microbiology, DIMES, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (C.F.); (S.M.); (A.M.)
| | - Barbara Luppi
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy; (B.G.); (B.L.); (B.V.)
| | - Beatrice Vitali
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy; (B.G.); (B.L.); (B.V.)
| | - Antonella Marangoni
- Microbiology, DIMES, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (C.F.); (S.M.); (A.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
D’Alessandro M, Parolin C, Bukvicki D, Siroli L, Vitali B, De Angelis M, Lanciotti R, Patrignani F. Probiotic and Metabolic Characterization of Vaginal Lactobacilli for a Potential Use in Functional Foods. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9040833. [PMID: 33919838 PMCID: PMC8070825 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9040833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The main aim of this work was to verify the metabolic and functional aptitude of 15 vaginal strains belonging to Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus gasseri, and Limosilactobacillus vaginalis (previously Lactobacillus vaginalis), already characterized for their technological and antimicrobial properties. In order to evaluate the metabolic profile of these vaginal strains, a phenotype microarray analysis was performed on them. Functional parameters such as hydrophobicity, auto-aggregation, deconjugation of bile salts, adhesion to an intestinal cell line (Caco-2), and a simulated digestion process were evaluated for these strains. A good number of these strains showed hydrophobicity values higher than 70%. Regarding the auto-aggregation assay, the most promising strains were L. crispatus BC9 and BC1, L. gasseri BC10 and BC14, and L. vaginalis BC17. Moreover, L. crispatus BC4, BC6, BC7, and BC8 were characterized by strong bile salts hydrolase activity (BHS). In addition, L. crispatus BC8 and L. vaginalis BC17 were characterized by a medium ability to adhere to Caco-2 cells. Data related to digestion process showed a strong ability of vaginal lactobacilli to withstand this stress. In conclusion, the data collected show the metabolic versatility and several exploitable functional properties of the investigated vaginal lactobacilli.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Margherita D’Alessandro
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, University of Bologna, 47521 Cesena, Italy; (L.S.); (R.L.); (F.P.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Carola Parolin
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy; (C.P.); (B.V.)
| | - Danka Bukvicki
- Faculty of Biology, Institute of Botany and Botanical Garden “Jevremovac”, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Lorenzo Siroli
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, University of Bologna, 47521 Cesena, Italy; (L.S.); (R.L.); (F.P.)
- Interdepartmental Center for Industrial Agri-Food Research, University of Bologna, 47521 Cesena, Italy
| | - Beatrice Vitali
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy; (C.P.); (B.V.)
| | - Maria De Angelis
- Department of Soil, Plant, and Food Sciences, University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70126 Bari, Italy;
| | - Rosalba Lanciotti
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, University of Bologna, 47521 Cesena, Italy; (L.S.); (R.L.); (F.P.)
- Interdepartmental Center for Industrial Agri-Food Research, University of Bologna, 47521 Cesena, Italy
| | - Francesca Patrignani
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, University of Bologna, 47521 Cesena, Italy; (L.S.); (R.L.); (F.P.)
- Interdepartmental Center for Industrial Agri-Food Research, University of Bologna, 47521 Cesena, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Laghi L, Zagonari S, Patuelli G, Zhu C, Foschi C, Morselli S, Pedna MF, Sambri V, Marangoni A. Vaginal metabolic profiles during pregnancy: Changes between first and second trimester. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0249925. [PMID: 33831087 PMCID: PMC8031435 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0249925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
During pregnancy, the vaginal microbiome plays an important role in both maternal and neonatal health outcomes. Throughout pregnancy, the vaginal microbial composition undergoes significant changes, including a decrease in overall diversity and enrichment with Lactobacillus spp. In turn, the modifications in the microbial profiles are associated with shifts in the composition of vaginal metabolites. In this study, we characterized the vaginal metabolic profiles throughout pregnancy at two different gestational ages, correlating them with a microscopic evaluation of the vaginal bacterial composition. A total of 67 Caucasian pregnant women presenting to the Family Advisory Health Centres of Ravenna (Italy) were enrolled and a vaginal swab was collected at gestational ages 9–13 weeks (first trimester) and 20–24 weeks (second trimester). The composition of the vaginal microbiome was assessed by Nugent score and women were divided in ‘H’ (normal lactobacilli-dominated microbiota), ‘I’ (intermediate microbiota), and ‘BV’ (bacterial vaginosis) groups. Starting from the cell-free supernatants of the vaginal swabs, a metabolomic analysis was performed by means of a 1H-NMR spectroscopy. From the first to the second trimester, a greater number of women showed a normal lactobacilli-dominated microbiota, with a reduction of cases of dysbiosis. These microbial shifts were associated with profound changes in the vaginal metabolic profiles. Over the weeks, a significant reduction in the levels of BV-associated metabolites (e.g. acetate, propionate, tyramine, methylamine, putrescine) was observed. At the same time, the vaginal metabolome was characterized by higher concentrations of lactate and of several amino acids (e.g. tryptophan, threonine, isoleucine, leucine), typically found in healthy vaginal conditions. Over time, the vaginal metabolome became less diverse and more homogeneous: in the second trimester, women with BV showed metabolic profiles more similar to the healthy/intermediate groups, compared to the first trimester. Our data could help unravel the role of vaginal metabolites in the pathophysiology of pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luca Laghi
- Department of Agro-Food Science and Technology, Centre of Foodomics, University of Bologna, Cesena, Italy
| | | | | | - Chenglin Zhu
- Department of Agro-Food Science and Technology, Centre of Foodomics, University of Bologna, Cesena, Italy
| | - Claudio Foschi
- Microbiology, DIMES, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- * E-mail:
| | - Sara Morselli
- Microbiology, DIMES, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Maria Federica Pedna
- Unit of Microbiology, Greater Romagna Hub Laboratory, Pievesestina di Cesena, Italy
| | - Vittorio Sambri
- Microbiology, DIMES, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Unit of Microbiology, Greater Romagna Hub Laboratory, Pievesestina di Cesena, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
41
|
Mancabelli L, Tarracchini C, Milani C, Lugli GA, Fontana F, Turroni F, van Sinderen D, Ventura M. Vaginotypes of the human vaginal microbiome. Environ Microbiol 2021; 23:1780-1792. [PMID: 33615652 DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.15441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The human vaginal environment harbours a community of bacteria that plays an important role in maintaining vaginal health and in protecting this environment from various urogenital infections. This bacterial population, also known as vaginal microbiota, has been demonstrated to be dominated by members of the Lactobacillus genus. Several studies employing 16S rRNA gene-based amplicon sequencing have classified the vaginal microbiota into five distinct community state types (CSTs) or vaginotypes. To deepen our understanding of the vaginal microbiota we performed an in-depth meta-analysis of 1312 publicly available datasets concerning healthy vaginal microbiome information obtained by metagenomics sequencing. The analysis confirmed the predominance of taxa belonging to the Lactobacillus genus, followed by members of the genera Gardnerella, Vibrio and Atopobium. Moreover, the statistical robustness offered by this meta-analysis allowed us to disentangle the species-level composition of dominant and accessory taxa constituting each vaginotype and to revisit and refine the previously proposed CST classification. In addition, a functional characterization of the metagenomic datasets revealed particular genetic features associated with each assigned vaginotype.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Mancabelli
- Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Chiara Tarracchini
- Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Christian Milani
- Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parma, Italy.,Interdepartmental Research Centre "Microbiome Research Hub", University of Parma, Parma, 43124, Italy
| | - Gabriele Andrea Lugli
- Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Federico Fontana
- Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Francesca Turroni
- Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parma, Italy.,Interdepartmental Research Centre "Microbiome Research Hub", University of Parma, Parma, 43124, Italy
| | - Douwe van Sinderen
- APC Microbiome Institute and School of Microbiology, Bioscience Institute, National University of Ireland, Cork, Ireland
| | - Marco Ventura
- Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parma, Italy.,Interdepartmental Research Centre "Microbiome Research Hub", University of Parma, Parma, 43124, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Tuddenham S, Ravel J, Marrazzo JM. Protection and Risk: Male and Female Genital Microbiota and Sexually Transmitted Infections. J Infect Dis 2021; 223:S222-S235. [PMID: 33576776 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiaa762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Unique compositional and functional features of the cervicovaginal microbiota have been associated with protection against and risk for sexually transmitted infections (STI). In men, our knowledge of the interaction between the penile microbiota and STI is less developed. The current state of our understanding of these microbiota and their role in select STIs is briefly reviewed, along with strategies that leverage existing findings to manipulate genital microbiota and optimize protection against STIs. Finally, we focus on major research gaps and present a framework for future studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susan Tuddenham
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Jacques Ravel
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Jeanne M Marrazzo
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Deese J, Philip N, Lind M, Ahmed K, Batting J, Beksinska M, Edward VA, Louw CE, Onono M, Palanee-Phillips T, Smit JA, Baeten JM, Donnell D, Mastro TD, Mugo NR, Nanda K, Rees H, Morrison C. Sexually transmitted infections among women randomised to depot medroxyprogesterone acetate, a copper intrauterine device or a levonorgestrel implant. Sex Transm Infect 2020; 97:249-255. [PMID: 33208512 PMCID: PMC8165154 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2020-054590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Revised: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Reproductive aged women are at risk of pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STI). Understanding drivers of STI acquisition, including any association with widely used contraceptives, could help us to reduce STI prevalence and comorbidities. We compared the risk of STI among women randomised to three contraceptive methods. Methods We conducted a secondary analysis to assess the risk of chlamydia and gonorrhoea in a clinical trial evaluating HIV risk among 7829 women aged 16–35 randomised to intramuscular depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA-IM), a copper intrauterine device (IUD) or a levonorgestrel (LNG) implant. We estimated chlamydia and gonorrhoea prevalences by contraceptive group and prevalence ratios (PR) using log-binomial regression. Results At baseline, chlamydia and gonorrhoea prevalences were 18% and 5%, respectively. Final visit chlamydia prevalence did not differ significantly between DMPA-IM and copper IUD groups or between copper IUD and LNG implant groups. The DMPA-IM group had significantly lower risk of chlamydia compared with the LNG implant group (PR 0.83, 95% CI 0.72 to 0.95). Final visit gonorrhoea prevalence differed significantly only between the DMPA-IM and the copper IUD groups (PR 0.67, 95% CI 0.52 to 0.87). Conclusions The findings suggest that chlamydia and gonorrhoea risk may vary with contraceptive method use. Further investigation is warranted to better understand the mechanisms of chlamydia and gonorrhoea susceptibility in the context of contraceptive use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Deese
- Global Public Health Impact Center, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA (formerly with FHI 360)
| | - Neena Philip
- Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Margaret Lind
- Department of Global Health, International Clinical Research Center, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | | | - Joanne Batting
- Effective Care Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, East London, South Africa
| | - Mags Beksinska
- MatCH Research Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - Vinodh A Edward
- The Aurum Institute, Johannesburg, South Africa.,School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Cheryl E Louw
- Madibeng Centre for Research, Brits, South Africa.,Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Maricianah Onono
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Thesla Palanee-Phillips
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Jennifer A Smit
- MatCH Research Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - Jared M Baeten
- Global Health, Medicine, and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA.,Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Deborah Donnell
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | | | - Nelly R Mugo
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA.,Center for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Kavita Nanda
- Product Development and Introduction, FHI 360, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Helen Rees
- Wits Reproductive Health & HIV Institute, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Charles Morrison
- Behavioral, Epidemiological and Clinical Sciences, FHI 360, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Chee WJY, Chew SY, Than LTL. Vaginal microbiota and the potential of Lactobacillus derivatives in maintaining vaginal health. Microb Cell Fact 2020; 19:203. [PMID: 33160356 PMCID: PMC7648308 DOI: 10.1186/s12934-020-01464-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 211] [Impact Index Per Article: 52.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Human vagina is colonised by a diverse array of microorganisms that make up the normal microbiota and mycobiota. Lactobacillus is the most frequently isolated microorganism from the healthy human vagina, this includes Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus gasseri, Lactobacillus iners, and Lactobacillus jensenii. These vaginal lactobacilli have been touted to prevent invasion of pathogens by keeping their population in check. However, the disruption of vaginal ecosystem contributes to the overgrowth of pathogens which causes complicated vaginal infections such as bacterial vaginosis (BV), sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC). Predisposing factors such as menses, pregnancy, sexual practice, uncontrolled usage of antibiotics, and vaginal douching can alter the microbial community. Therefore, the composition of vaginal microbiota serves an important role in determining vagina health. Owing to their Generally Recognised as Safe (GRAS) status, lactobacilli have been widely utilised as one of the alternatives besides conventional antimicrobial treatment against vaginal pathogens for the prevention of chronic vaginitis and the restoration of vaginal ecosystem. In addition, the effectiveness of Lactobacillus as prophylaxis has also been well-founded in long-term administration. This review aimed to highlight the beneficial effects of lactobacilli derivatives (i.e. surface-active molecules) with anti-biofilm, antioxidant, pathogen-inhibition, and immunomodulation activities in developing remedies for vaginal infections. We also discuss the current challenges in the implementation of the use of lactobacilli derivatives in promotion of human health. In the current review, we intend to provide insights for the development of lactobacilli derivatives as a complementary or alternative medicine to conventional probiotic therapy in vaginal health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wallace Jeng Yang Chee
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor Malaysia
| | - Shu Yih Chew
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor Malaysia
| | - Leslie Thian Lung Than
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Patrignani F, Parolin C, D'Alessandro M, Siroli L, Vitali B, Lanciotti R. Evaluation of the fate of Lactobacillus crispatus BC4, carried in Squacquerone cheese, throughout the simulator of the human intestinal microbial ecosystem (SHIME). Food Res Int 2020; 137:109580. [PMID: 33233191 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2020.109580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Lactobacillus crispatus strain BC4, isolated from the human healthy vaginal environment and characterised by a strong antimicrobial activity against urogenital pathogens and foodborne microorganisms, was employed as a probiotic culture in the cheesemaking of the soft cheese Squacquerone. Such cheese is intended as a "gender food", that could be used as a hedonistic dietary strategy to reduce the incidence of woman vaginal dysbiosis and infections, given the evidence that a probiotic strain able to survive to the entire digestive process once ingested, can pass from intestine to vagina. This work was aimed to evaluate the resistance of L. crispatus BC4, carried in Squacquerone cheese, to different challenges of the human gastrointestinal tract, including the colon stage. The digestion process was tested using a Simulator of the Human Intestinal Microbial Ecosystem (SHIME®). The viability and metabolic activity of L. crispatus BC4 during the colon simulation were monitored by qPCR and gas chromatography, respectively, also in the presence of a complex microbiota. The results showed that L. crispatus BC4 survival was not affected by the gastric condition, while it was significantly affected by bile salts and pancreatic juice in small intestine conditions, where it decreased of approx. 0.6 log (colony-forming units) CFU/g. Differently, during colon simulation L. crispatus BC4 was able to grow in sterile colon conditions and to maintain viability in the presence of a complex microbiota. Moreover, during colon simulation, L. crispatus BC4 was metabolically active as demonstrated by the higher production of short chain fatty acids (SCFA) and lactate. In the presence of a complex gut microbiota, a decrease of lactate was observed, due to its conversion into propionate (anti-cholesterol activity) and butyrate (anti-inflammatory activity) by cross-feeding. However, no differences in propionate and butyrate production could be observed between control cheese and cheese containing L. crispatus BC4. Despite this may appear as a negative outcome, it must be taken into account that, in this setup, only a single dose of the cheese was tested and the outcome of the colonization and impact of the gut microbiota might be different when daily repeated doses are tested.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Patrignani
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, University of Bologna, p.zza Goidanich 60, 47521 Cesena (FC), Italy; Interdepartmental Center for Industrial Agri-food Research, University of Bologna, via Quinto Bucci 336, 47521 Cesena (FC), Italy.
| | - Carola Parolin
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, via San Donato 19/2, 40127 Bologna (BO), Italy
| | - Margherita D'Alessandro
- Interdepartmental Center for Industrial Agri-food Research, University of Bologna, via Quinto Bucci 336, 47521 Cesena (FC), Italy
| | - Lorenzo Siroli
- Interdepartmental Center for Industrial Agri-food Research, University of Bologna, via Quinto Bucci 336, 47521 Cesena (FC), Italy
| | - Beatrice Vitali
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, via San Donato 19/2, 40127 Bologna (BO), Italy
| | - Rosalba Lanciotti
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, University of Bologna, p.zza Goidanich 60, 47521 Cesena (FC), Italy; Interdepartmental Center for Industrial Agri-food Research, University of Bologna, via Quinto Bucci 336, 47521 Cesena (FC), Italy
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Happel AU, Kullin B, Gamieldien H, Wentzel N, Zauchenberger CZ, Jaspan HB, Dabee S, Barnabas SL, Jaumdally SZ, Dietrich J, Gray G, Bekker LG, Froissart R, Passmore JAS. Exploring potential of vaginal Lactobacillus isolates from South African women for enhancing treatment for bacterial vaginosis. PLoS Pathog 2020; 16:e1008559. [PMID: 32497109 PMCID: PMC7271994 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1008559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2019] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Antibiotics continue to be the standard-of-care for bacterial vaginosis (BV), although recurrence rates are high. Vaginal probiotics may improve durability of BV treatment, although few probiotics for vaginal health contain Lactobacillus spp. that commonly colonize the lower female genital tract. Characteristics of vaginal Lactobacillus strains from South African women were evaluated for their probiotic potential in vitro compared to strains from commercial vaginal products, including growth at varying pHs, ability to lower pH, produce D-/L-lactate and H2O2, influence growth of BV-associated Gardnerella vaginalis and Prevotella bivia, adherence to cervical cells and susceptibility to antibiotics. Fifty-seven Lactobacillus strains were purified from cervico-vaginal fluid, including L. crispatus, L. jensenii, L. gasseri, L. mucosae, and L. vaginalis. L crispatus strains grew better at pHs below 4.5 and lowered pH more effectively than other strains. Production of D-/L-lactate and H2O2 varied between Lactobacillus species and strains. Lactobacillus strains generally inhibited P. bivia more uniformly than G. vaginalis isolates. All vaginal Lactobacillus isolates were resistant to metronidazole while susceptibility to clindamycin varied. Furthermore, vaginal Lactobacillus strains tended to be broadly susceptible to penicillin, amoxicillin, rifampicin and rifabutin. Whole-genome-sequencing of five of the best-performing vaginal Lactobacillus strains confirmed their likely safety, due to antimicrobial resistance elements being largely absent, while putative intact prophages were present in the genomes of two of the five strains. Overall, vaginal Lactobacillus strains largely performed better in these in vitro assays than probiotic strains currently used in probiotics for vaginal health. Including the best-performing vaginal Lactobacillus isolates in a region-specific probiotic for vaginal health may result in improved BV treatment options.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna-Ursula Happel
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine (IDM), University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Brian Kullin
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine (IDM), University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Hoyam Gamieldien
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine (IDM), University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Nicole Wentzel
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine (IDM), University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Chambrez Z. Zauchenberger
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine (IDM), University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Heather B. Jaspan
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine (IDM), University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Seattle Children’s Hospital, Seattle, United States of America
| | - Smritee Dabee
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine (IDM), University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Seattle Children’s Hospital, Seattle, United States of America
| | - Shaun L. Barnabas
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine (IDM), University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Family Centre for Research with Ubuntu (FAMCRU), Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Shameem Z. Jaumdally
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine (IDM), University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Janan Dietrich
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Glenda Gray
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Linda-Gail Bekker
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine (IDM), University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Remy Froissart
- UMR MIVEGEC CNRS-IRD-UM, University Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Jo-Ann S. Passmore
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine (IDM), University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- NRF-DST CAPRISA Centre of Excellence in HIV Prevention, Cape Town, South Africa
- National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS), Cape Town, South Africa
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Adhikari B, Kwon YM. Cell density alters bacterial community structure in culture-enriched 16S rRNA gene microbiota profiling. BMC Res Notes 2020; 13:269. [PMID: 32493423 PMCID: PMC7268277 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-020-05113-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Microbial community profiling using 16S rRNA gene has provided invaluable insights into diverse microbial communities. Recently a few studies have attempted to use 16S rRNA gene microbiota profiling in combination with the conventional culture methods to explore bacterial communities. In this "culture-enriched microbiota profiling" approach, microbes in a sample are cultured on solid media, and the resulting colonies are combined and subjected to 16S rRNA gene microbiota profiling. Here we investigated the effect of cell densities as determined by varying levels of sample dilution on the culture-enriched microbiota profiles using De Man, Rogosa and Sharpe (MRS) agar medium as a model system. RESULTS Cecal samples collected from 10 healthy chickens were serially diluted to 102 fold (M-LOW), 104 fold (M-MEDIUM), and 106 fold (M-HIGH), and the dilutions were plated on MRS agar. 16S rRNA gene profiling showed that the relative abundance of certain genera showed gradual increase (Pediococcus and Enterococcus) or decrease (Lactobacillus and Turicibacter) with higher dilutions, though it was significant only for Pediococcus (p < 0.05). The result indicates that the dilution levels of the samples can alter the resulting microbiota profiles via unknown density-dependent mechanisms and thus should be considered for designing experiments using culture-enriched microbiota profiling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bishnu Adhikari
- Department of Poultry Science, College of Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, 72701, USA
| | - Young Min Kwon
- Department of Poultry Science, College of Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, 72701, USA. .,Cell and Molecular Biology Program, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, 72701, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Marziali G, Marangoni A, Foschi C, Re MC, Calonghi N. Effect of Sugars on Chlamydia trachomatis Infectivity. Pathogens 2020; 9:pathogens9040298. [PMID: 32316668 PMCID: PMC7237991 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens9040298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background. Previous works suggest that sugars can have a beneficial effect on C. trachomatis (CT) survival and virulence. In this study, we investigated the effect of different sugars on CT infectivity, elucidating some of the molecular mechanisms behind CT-sugar interaction. Methods. CT infectivity was investigated on HeLa cells after 2 hour-incubation of elementary bodies (EBs) with glucose, sucrose, or mannitol solutions (0.5, 2.5, 5.0 mM). The effect of sugars on EB membrane fluidity was investigated by fluorescence anisotropy measurement, whereas the changes in lipopolysaccharide (LPS) exposure were examined by cytofluorimetric analysis. By means of a Western blot, we explored the phosphorylation state of Focal Adhesion Kinase (FAK) in HeLa cells infected with EBs pre-incubated with sugars. Results. All sugar solutions significantly increased CT infectivity on epithelial cells, acting directly on the EB structure. Sugars induced a significant increase of EB membrane fluidity, leading to changes in LPS membrane exposure. Especially after incubation with sucrose and mannitol, EBs led to a higher FAK phosphorylation, enhancing the activation of anti-apoptotic and proliferative signals in the host cells. Conclusions. Sugars can increase CT infectivity and virulence, by modulating the expression/exposure of chlamydial membrane ligands. Further in-depth studies are needed to better understand the molecular mechanisms involved.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Marziali
- FaBiT Department, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 42, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (G.M.); (N.C.)
| | - Antonella Marangoni
- Microbiology, DIMES, University of Bologna, St. Orsola Hospital, Via Massarenti, 9, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (A.M.); (M.C.R.)
| | - Claudio Foschi
- Microbiology, DIMES, University of Bologna, St. Orsola Hospital, Via Massarenti, 9, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (A.M.); (M.C.R.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-051-2144513; Fax: +39-051-307397
| | - Maria Carla Re
- Microbiology, DIMES, University of Bologna, St. Orsola Hospital, Via Massarenti, 9, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (A.M.); (M.C.R.)
| | - Natalia Calonghi
- FaBiT Department, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 42, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (G.M.); (N.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Pan M, Hidalgo-Cantabrana C, Barrangou R. Host and body site-specific adaptation of Lactobacillus crispatus genomes. NAR Genom Bioinform 2020; 2:lqaa001. [PMID: 33575551 PMCID: PMC7671364 DOI: 10.1093/nargab/lqaa001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Revised: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 01/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Lactobacillus crispatus is a common inhabitant of both healthy poultry gut and human vaginal tract, and the absence of this species has been associated with a higher risk of developing infectious diseases. In this study, we analyzed 105 L. crispatus genomes isolated from a variety of ecological niches, including the human vaginal tract, human gut, chicken gut and turkey gut, to shed light on the genetic and functional features that drive evolution and adaptation of this important species. We performed in silico analyses to identify the pan and core genomes of L. crispatus, and to reveal the genomic differences and similarities associated with their origins of isolation. Our results demonstrated that, although a significant portion of the genomic content is conserved, human and poultry L. crispatus isolates evolved to encompass different genomic features (e.g. carbohydrate usage, CRISPR-Cas immune systems, prophage occurrence) in order to thrive in different environmental niches. We also observed that chicken and turkey L. crispatus isolates can be differentiated based on their genomic information, suggesting significant differences may exist between these two poultry gut niches. These results provide insights into host and niche-specific adaptation patterns in species of human and animal importance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meichen Pan
- Department of Food, Bioprocessing and Nutrition Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA
| | - Claudio Hidalgo-Cantabrana
- Department of Food, Bioprocessing and Nutrition Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA
| | - Rodolphe Barrangou
- Department of Food, Bioprocessing and Nutrition Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Bianchi L, Laghi L, Correani V, Schifano E, Landi C, Uccelletti D, Mattei B. A Combined Proteomics, Metabolomics and In Vivo Analysis Approach for the Characterization of Probiotics in Large-Scale Production. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10010157. [PMID: 31963736 PMCID: PMC7022454 DOI: 10.3390/biom10010157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Revised: 01/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The manufacturing processes of commercial probiotic strains may be affected in different ways in the attempt to optimize yield, costs, functionality, or stability, influencing gene expression, protein patterns, or metabolic output. Aim of this work is to compare different samples of a high concentration (450 billion bacteria) multispecies (8 strains) formulation produced at two different manufacturing sites, United States of America (US) and Italy (IT), by applying a combination of functional proteomics, metabolomics, and in vivo analyses. Several protein-profile differences were detected between IT- and US-made products, with Lactobacillus paracasei, Streptococcus thermophilus, and Bifidobacteria being the main affected probiotics/microorganisms. Performing proton nuclear magnetic spectroscopy (1H-NMR), some discrepancies in amino acid, lactate, betaine and sucrose concentrations were also reported between the two products. Finally, we investigated the health-promoting and antiaging effects of both products in the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans. The integration of omics platforms with in vivo analysis has emerged as a powerful tool to assess manufacturing procedures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Bianchi
- Functional Proteomics Laboratory, Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (L.B.); (C.L.)
| | - Luca Laghi
- Department of Agro-Food Science and Technology, University of Bologna, 40126 Cesena, Italy;
| | - Virginia Correani
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Sapienza University, 00185 Roma, Italy;
| | - Emily Schifano
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology “C. Darwin”, Sapienza University, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Claudia Landi
- Functional Proteomics Laboratory, Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (L.B.); (C.L.)
| | - Daniela Uccelletti
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology “C. Darwin”, Sapienza University, 00185 Rome, Italy;
- Correspondence:
| | | |
Collapse
|