Lactobacillus Biofilms Influence Anti-Candida Activity

Exploring the Potential Use of Probiotics, Prebiotics, Synbiotics, and Postbiotics as Adjuvants for Modulating the Vaginal Microbiome: a Bibliometric Review

Women's health is related to several factors that include physical, mental, and reproductive health. Additionally, the vaginal microbiota modulation performs a fundamental role in the regulation of physiological homeostasis and dysbiosis, which provides us a potential overview of the use of different biotic agents and their implications for female health. The objective of this work was propitiated insights and conception about the influence of probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, and postbiotics as adjuvants for prevention/treatment on the main infections that can affect women's health. Therefore, seventy-one studies published in the Web of Science Core Collection database from 1999 to 2024 were evaluated and performed to a bibliometric analysis employing the VOSviewer software for scientific mapping and network analysis. Our results suggest that administration of biotic agents as adjuvants are relevant for the prevention and/or treatment of the main diseases that affect female health, since they contribute to a healthy vaginal microbiota through anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities. Most clinical studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of intervention using probiotics to the detriment of other biotic agents in women's health, being bacterial vaginosis, polycystic ovary syndrome, and vulvovaginal candidiasis, the main diseases evaluated. However, preclinical studies have emphasized that the inhibition of pathogens responsible for the process of vaginal dysbiosis may be due to the formation of biofilm and the synthesis of compounds that could prevent the adhesion of these microorganisms. Future perspectives point to the beneficial modulation of the vaginal microbiota by biotic agents as a promising adjuvant approach to improve women's health.

Linking reproductive tract microbiota to premature ovarian insufficiency: Pathophysiological mechanisms and therapies

Over the past decade, research on the human microbiota has become a hot topic. Among them, the female reproductive tract (FRT) also has a specific microbiota that maintains the body's health and dynamic balance, especially in the reproductive aspect. When the FRT ecosystem is dysregulated, changes in immune and metabolic signals can lead to pathological and physiological changes such as chronic inflammation, epithelial barrier disruption, changes in cell proliferation and apoptosis, and dysregulation of angiogenesis and metabolism, thereby causing disruption of the female endocrine system. Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), a clinical syndrome of ovarian dysfunction, is primarily influenced by immune, genetic, and environmental factors. New evidence suggests that dysbiosis of the FRT microbiota and/or the presence of specific bacteria may contribute to the occurrence and progression of POI. This influence occurs through both direct and indirect mechanisms, including the regulation of estrogen metabolism. The use of probiotics or microbiota transplantation to regulate the microbiome has also been proven to be beneficial in improving ovarian function and the quality of life in women with premature aging. This article provides an overview of the interrelationships and roles between the FRT microbiome and POI in recent years, to fully understand the risk factors affecting female reproductive health, and to offer insights for the future diagnosis, treatment, and application of the FRT microbiome in POI patients.

Understanding vaginal biofilms: The first step in harnessing antimicrobial nanomedicine

In spite of multipurpose technologies offering broad-spectrum prevention for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and contraception, the STIs incidences rise worldwide. The situation is even more alarming considering continuous rise in antimicrobial resistance (AMR) that limits therapy options. In this review we address the specific challenges of efficiently treating vaginal infections locally, at the infection site, by understanding the underlying barriers to efficient treatment such as vaginal biofilms. Knowledge on vaginal biofilms remains, up to now, rather scarce and requires more attention. We therefore propose a 'back to basics' insight that seeks to probe the complexity and role of the vaginal microbiota, its relationship with vaginal biofilms and implications to future therapeutic modalities utilizing advanced nano delivery systems. Our key objective is to highlight the interplay between biofilm, (nano)formulation and therapy outcome rather than provide an overview of all nanoformulations that were challenged against biofilms. We focused on the anatomy of the female reproductive organ and its physiological changes from birth, the unique vaginal microenvironment in premenopausal and postmenopausal women, vaginal biofilm infections and current nanomedicine-based approaches to treat infections in the vaginal site. Finally, we offer our perspectives on the current challenges associated with vaginal delivery and key considerations that can aid in the design and development of safer and potent products against persisting vaginal infections.

Disclosing α-lactalbumin impact on the intestinal and vaginal microbiota of women suffering from polycystic ovary syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most widespread endocrinopathy affecting women of reproductive age with detrimental effects on life quality and health. Among several mechanisms involved in its aetiopathogenesis, recent studies have also postulated the involvement of the vaginal and intestinal microbiota in the development of this disorder. In this study, an accurate insight into the microbial changes associated with PCOS was performed through a pooled-analysis highlighting that this syndrome is characterized by intestinal and vaginal dysbiosis with a reduction of beneficial microorganisms and a higher proportion of potential pathogens. Based on this observation, we evaluated the ability of a milk-derived protein exerting positive outcomes in the management of PCOS, that is, α-lactalbumin (α-LA), to recover PCOS-related dysbiosis. In vitro experiments revealed that this protein improved the growth performances of members of two health-promoting bacterial genera, that is, Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus, depleted in both intestinal and vaginal microbiota of PCOS-affected women. In addition, α-LA modulated the taxonomic composition and growth performances of the microbial players of the complex intestinal and vaginal microbiota. Finally, an in vivo pilot study further corroborated these observations. The oral administration of α-LA for 30 days to women with PCOS revealed that this protein may have a role in favouring the growth of health-promoting bacteria yet limiting the proliferation of potential pathogens. Overall, our results could pave the way to the use of α-LA as a valid compound with 'prebiotic effects' to limit/restore the PCOS-related intestinal and vaginal dysbiosis.

Genome-Guided Identification of Surfactin-Producing Bacillus halotolerans AQ11M9 with Anti-Candida auris Potential

The emergence of multidrug-resistant fungi Candida auris is a worldwide health crisis connected with high rates of mortality. There is a critical need to find novel and unique antifungal compounds for treating infections of multidrug-resistant fungi such as C. auris. This study aimed to illustrate that biosynthetic gene clusters in native bacterial isolates are able to produce antifungal compounds against the multidrug-resistant fungus C. auris. It was successfully achieved using large-scale antifungal activity screening, cytotoxicity analysis, and whole genome sequencing integrated with genome mining-guided analysis and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC/MS). A list of possible gene candidates was initially identified with genome mining methods to predict secondary metabolite gene clusters of antifungal-compound-producing bacteria. Then, gene clusters present in the antifungal-compound-producing bacteria were identified and aligned with the reference genome using comparative genomic approaches. Bacillus halotolerans AQ11M9 was identified through large-scale antifungal activity screening as a natural compound-producer against multidrug-resistant C. auris, while it was nontoxic to normal human skin fibroblast cells (confirmed using a cell viability assay). The genome (4,197,347 bp) of B. halotolerans AQ11M9 with 2931 predicted genes was first mined for detecting and characterizing biosynthetic gene clusters, which revealed 10 candidate regions with antifungal activity. Clusters of AQ11M9 encoded non-ribosomal peptide synthase (NRPS) (bacilysin, bacillibactin, paenibactin, surfactin, plipastin, and fengycin) and polyketide (macrobrevin). The presence of gene clusters with anti-C. auris activity, and surfactin identified through LC/MS, from AQ11M9 suggests the potential of utilizing it as a source for a novel and powerful anti-C. auris compound.

Mechanisms of action of Lactobacillus spp. in the treatment of oral candidiasis

Candida albicans is often associated with oral candidiasis, and drug-resistance profiles have contributed to an increase in morbidity and mortality. It is known that Lactobacillus spp. acts by competing for adhesion to the epithelium, absorption of nutrients and modulation of the human microbiota. Therefore, they are important to assist in the host's microbiological balance and reduce the growth of Candida spp. Until now, there have been no reports in the literature of reviews correlating to the use of Lactobacillus spp. in the treatment of oral candidiasis. Thus, this review aims to highlight the mechanisms of action of Lactobacillus spp. and methods that can be used in the treatment of oral candidiasis. This is a study carried out through the databases PubMed Central and Scientific Electronic Library Online, using the following keywords: Oral Candidiasis and Lactobacillus. Original articles about oral candidiasis were included, with both in vitro and in vivo analyses, and published from 2012 to 2022. Lactobacillus rhamnosus was the most common microorganism used in the experiments against Candida, acting mainly in the reduction of biofilm, filamentation, and competing for adhesion sites of Candida spp. Among in vivo studies, most researchers used immunosuppressed mouse modelsof Candida infection. The studies showed that Lactobacillus has a great potential as a probiotic, acting mainly in the prevention and treatment of mucosal diseases. Thus, the use of Lactobacillus may be a good strategy for the treatment of oral candidiasis.

Protective Mechanisms of Vaginal Lactobacilli against Sexually Transmitted Viral Infections

The healthy cervicovaginal microbiota is dominated by various Lactobacillus species, which support a condition of eubiosis. Among their many functions, vaginal lactobacilli contribute to the maintenance of an acidic pH, produce antimicrobial compounds, and modulate the host immune response to protect against vaginal bacterial and fungal infections. Increasing evidence suggests that these beneficial bacteria may also confer protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) caused by viruses such as human papillomavirus (HPV), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and herpes simplex virus (HSV). Viral STIs pose a substantial public health burden globally, causing a range of infectious diseases with potentially severe consequences. Understanding the molecular mechanisms by which lactobacilli exert their protective effects against viral STIs is paramount for the development of novel preventive and therapeutic strategies. This review aims to provide more recent insights into the intricate interactions between lactobacilli and viral STIs, exploring their impact on the vaginal microenvironment, host immune response, viral infectivity and pathogenesis, and highlighting their potential implications for public health interventions and clinical management strategies.

Synergistic Inhibition of Synbiotic Cultures among Lactobacilli and Plant Extracts against Vaginal Discharge Causing Candida albicans

Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is the most common cause of vaginal discharge among women. The present study aimed to investigate the synergistic anticandidal effect of lactobacillus cultures supplemented with plant extracts. Among 600 isolates of lactic acid bacteria, 41 isolates exhibited inhibitory activity against Candida albicans ATCC10231. Six out of 41 cell-free supernatants demonstrated the most potent antibacterial and anticandidal activities. They also inhibited the clinical isolates of C. albicans, causing VVC and non-C. albicans. The synergistic effect between Lactobacillus crispatus 84/7 and Limosilactobacillus reuteri 89/4 was demonstrated by the lowest fractional inhibitory concentration index (FICI = 0.5). The synbiotic culture of bacterial combination, cultured with Jerusalem artichoke (H. tuberosus) extract, also exhibited the strongest inhibition against the tested C. albicans. Biofilm formation decreased after 12 h of incubation in the selected cell-free supernatants of this synbiotic culture. The anticandidal activity of crude extracts was lost after treatment with proteinase K and trypsin but not with heating conditions, suggesting that it may be a heat-stable substance. In conclusion, the combination of L. crispatus 84/7 and L. reuteri 89/4 with H. tuberosus may be a promising candidate for inhibiting Candida infection and biofilm formation, with the potential use as ingredients in vaginal biotherapeutic products.

Cell-free supernatants of probiotic consortia impede hyphal formation and disperse biofilms of vulvovaginal candidiasis causing Candida in an ex-vivo model

Vulvovaginal candidiasis is the second most common vaginal infection caused by drug-resistant Candida species that affects about 70-75% of reproductive age group women across the globe. As current-day antifungal drugs are ineffective against the biofilms formed by the drug-resistant Candida strains, several natural compounds and antagonistic microbes are being explored as alternative antifungal agents. In the present study, we investigated the anti-biofilm activity of Cell-Free Supernatant (CFS) extracted from the commercially available probiotics VSL-3 against the biofilms of Candida species and also evaluated their efficacy in curbing the yeast-to-hyphal transition. Various methodologies like crystal violet staining and scanning electron microscopy were used to study the effect of CFS against the biofilms formed by the species. The ability of CFS to interfere with yeast to hyphal transition in Candida was studied by colony morphology assay and visually confirmed with phase contrast microscopy. The potential of the CFS of the probiotics was also evaluated using goat buccal tissue, a novel ex-vivo model that mimics the vaginal environment. Moreover, the supernatant extracted from VSL-3 had the ability to down-regulate the expression of virulence genes of Candida from the biofilm formed over the ex-vivo model. These results emphasize the anti-fungal and anti-infective properties of the CFS of VSL-3 against drug-resistant Candida strains causing vulvovaginal candidiasis.

Modulating the skin mycobiome-bacteriome and treating seborrheic dermatitis with a probiotic-enriched oily suspension

Seborrheic dermatitis (SD) affects 2-5% of the global population, with imbalances in the skin microbiome implicated in its development. This study assessed the impact of an oily suspension containing Lactobacillus crispatus P17631 and Lacticaseibacillus paracasei I1688 (termed EUTOPLAC) on SD symptoms and the skin mycobiome-bacteriome modulation. 25 SD patients were treated with EUTOPLAC for a week. Symptom severity and skin mycobiome-bacteriome changes were measured at the start of the treatment (T0), after seven days (T8), and three weeks post-treatment (T28). Results indicated symptom improvement post-EUTOPLAC, with notable reductions in the Malassezia genus. Concurrently, bacterial shifts were observed, including a decrease in Staphylococcus and an increase in Lactobacillus and Lacticaseibacillus. Network analysis highlighted post-EUTOPLAC instability in fungal and bacterial interactions, with increased negative correlations between Malassezia and Lactobacillus and Lacticaseibacillus genera. The study suggests EUTOPLAC's potential as a targeted SD treatment, reducing symptoms and modulating the mycobiome-bacteriome composition.

Vaginal Microbiota Molecular Profiling in Women with Bacterial Vaginosis: A Novel Diagnostic Tool

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a most common microbiological syndrome. Multiplex next-generation sequencing (NGS) or molecular tests allow a complete and accurate vaginal microbiota profiling in order to determine the primary causative agent. Due to the high costs and limited availability of NGS, the multiplex real-time PCR draws more attention. The present study aimed to evaluate the microbial composition and dominant lactobacilli species in non-pregnant women with bacterial vaginosis using a multiplex RT-PCR test and determine its diagnostic significance. In total, 331 women complaining of vaginal discharge were included. BV was confirmed upon clinical examination and Nugent criteria. A real-time PCR test was carried out with a new Femoflor test, which identifies opportunistic bacteria, STD pathogens, and some viruses. According to the results, the rate of lactobacilli is significantly reduced in BV-affected patients when compared to healthy women. Moreover, the rate of L. crispatus significantly decreases, while the rate of L. iners remains high. Among obligate anaerobic bacteria, Gardnerella vaginalis was the most prevalent in women with BV. The Femoflor test demonstrated high sensitivity and specificity for diagnosing BV. Moreover, the test allows the identification of infection in women with intermediate vaginal microbiota, as well as STD pathogens, and viruses. Thus, the application of real-time PCR tests can be effectively used in vaginal microbiota evaluation in women with BV, intermediate vaginal microbiota, and healthy women. In addition, this test may be used as an alternative to the Amsel criteria and Nugent scoring method in diagnosing BV.

Mining the nanotube-forming Bacillus amyloliquefaciens MR14M3 genome for determining anti-Candida auris and anti-Candida albicans potential by pathogenicity and comparative genomics analysis

There is a global health concern associated with the emergence of the multidrug-resistant (MDR) fungus Candida auris, which has significant mortality rates. Finding innovative and distinctive anti-Candida compounds is essential for treating infections caused by MDR C. auris. A bacterial strain with anti-Candida activity was isolated and identified using 16 S rRNA gene sequencing. The whole genome was sequenced to identify biosynthesis-related gene clusters. The pathogenicity and cytotoxicity of the isolate were analyzed in Candida and HFF-1 cell lines, respectively. This study set out to show that whole-genome sequencing, cytotoxicity testing, and pathogenicity analysis combined with genome mining and comparative genomics can successfully identify biosynthesis-related gene clusters in native bacterial isolates that encode antifungal natural compounds active against Candida albicans and C. auris. The native isolate MR14M3 has the ability to inhibit C. auris (zone of inhibition 25 mm) and C. albicans (zone of inhibition 25 mm). The 16 S rRNA gene sequence of MR14M3 aligned with Bacillus amyloliquefaciens with similarity (100%). Bacillus amyloliquefaciens MR14M3 establishes bridges of intercellular nanotubes (L 258.56 ± 35.83 nm; W 25.32 ± 6.09 nm) connecting neighboring cells. Candida cell size was reduced significantly, and crushed phenotypes were observed upon treatment with the defused metabolites of B. amyloliquefaciens MR14M3. Furthermore, the pathogenicity of B. amyloliquefaciens MR14M3 on Candida cells was observed through cell membrane disruption and lysed yeast cells. The whole-genome alignment of the MR14M3 genome (3981,643 bp) using 100 genes confirmed its affiliation with Bacillus amyloliquefaciens. Genome mining analysis revealed that MR14M3-coded secondary metabolites are involved in the biosynthesis of polyketides (PKs) and nonribosomal peptide synthases (NRPSs), including 11 biosynthesis-related gene clusters with one hundred percent similarity. Highly conserved biosynthesis-related gene clusters with anti-C. albicans and anti-C. auris potentials and cytotoxic-free activity of B. amyloliquefaciens MR14M3 proposes the utilization of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens MR14M3 as a biofactory for an anti-Candida auris and anti-C. albicans compound synthesizer.

Anti-Candida and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of a Vaginal Gel Formulation: Novel Data Concerning Vaginal Infection and Dysbiosis

Vaginal ecosystem is a unique environment where, in physiological conditions, lactobacilli dominate. However, pathogenic microbial species responsible for vaginitis and vaginosis can also harbor vaginal microbiota. To extend our previously published data, we analyzed here both the anti-Candida and anti-inflammatory properties of the vaginal gel formulation, Respecta^® Balance Gel (RBG), commercialized as an adjuvant to treat vaginitis and vaginosis. We evaluated its activity by an in vitro model where a monolayer of A-431 vaginal epithelial cells was infected by Candida albicans in the presence of RBG or the placebo formulation (pRBG). Specifically, we tested the RBG capacity to counteract C. albicans virulence factors and their anti-inflammatory properties. Our results show that, unlike the placebo, RBG reduces C. albicans adhesion, its capacity to form hyphae and C. albicans-induced vaginal cell damage. Interestingly, both RBG and pRBG reduce LPS-induced IL-8 secretion (with RBG being the most effective), demonstrating that also the placebo retains anti-inflammatory properties. From our experimental approach, we highlighted the possible role of farnesol on such effects, but we would like to point out that lactic acid, polydextrose and glycogen too must be relevant in the actual application. In summary, our results show that RBG impairs C. albicans virulence and is able to reduce the inflammation in the vaginal environment, ultimately allowing the establishment of a balanced vaginal ecosystem.

Lactic acid bacteria biofilms and their antimicrobial potential against pathogenic microorganisms

The continuous growth of pathogenic microorganisms and associated biofilms poses severe public health challenges, particularly in food and clinical environments. However, these difficulties have enabled scientists to develop novel and safe methods for combating pathogens. The use of biofilms produced by lactic acid bacteria (LAB) against pathogenic bacteria has recently gained popularity. This review provides an in-depth look at LAB biofilms, their distribution, and mechanisms of action against pathogenic bacteria. More importantly, the bioactive substances produced by LAB-forming biofilm may be active against undesirable microorganisms and their products, which is of great interest in improving human health. Therefore, this review implies that a combination of LAB biofilms and other LAB products like bacteriocins could provide viable alternatives to traditional methods of combating pathogenic microorganisms and their biofilms.

Exopolysaccharides from vaginal lactobacilli modulate microbial biofilms

BACKGROUND

Exopolysaccharides (EPS) secreted by beneficial lactobacilli exert a plethora of positive activities, but little is known about their effects on biofilms of opportunistic vaginal pathogens and especially on biofilms of lactobacilli themselves. Here, the EPS produced by six vaginal lactobacilli, belonging to Lactobacillus crispatus (BC1, BC4, BC5) and Lactobacillus gasseri (BC9, BC12, BC14) species were isolated from cultural supernatants and lyophilized.

RESULTS

Lactobacillus EPS were chemically characterized in terms of monosaccharide composition by liquid chromatography (LC) analysis coupled to UV and mass spectrometry (MS) detection. Moreover, the ability of EPS (0.1, 0.5, 1 mg/mL) to stimulate the biofilm formation of lactobacilli and to inhibit the formation of pathogens' biofilms was evaluated by crystal violet (CV) staining and 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Isolated EPS (yields 133-426 mg/L) were heteropolysaccharides mainly composed of D-mannose (40-52%) and D-glucose (11-30%). For the first time we demonstrated that Lactobacillus EPS were able to stimulate in a dose-dependent manner (p < 0.05) the formation of biofilms of ten strains belonging to L. crispatus, L. gasseri and Limosilactobacillus vaginalis species, in terms of cell viability (84-282% increase at 1 mg/mL) and especially biofilm biomass (40-195% increase at 1 mg/mL), quantified with MTT assay and CV staining, respectively. EPS released from L. crispatus and L. gasseri were found to better stimulate the biofilms of the same producer species rather than that of other species, including producing strains themselves and other strains. Conversely, the biofilm formation of bacterial (Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus spp., Enterococcus spp. and Streptococcus agalactiae) and fungal (Candida spp.) pathogens was inhibited. The anti-biofilm activity was dose-dependent and was more marked for L. gasseri-derived EPS (inhibition up to 86%, 70%, and 58% at 1 mg/mL, 0.5 mg/mL, and 0.1 mg/mL, respectively), whilst L. crispatus-derived EPS resulted overall less efficient (inhibition up to 58% at 1 mg/mL and 40% at 0.5 mg/mL) (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Lactobacilli-derived EPS favour the biofilm formation of lactobacilli preventing, at the same time, that of opportunistic pathogens. These results support the possible employment of EPS as postbiotics in medicine as a therapeutic/preventive strategy to counteract vaginal infections.

Limosilactobacillus fermentum Limits Candida glabrata Growth by Ergosterol Depletion

Candida glabrata is a human-associated opportunistic fungal pathogen. It shares its niche with Lactobacillus spp. in the gastrointestinal and vaginal tract. In fact, Lactobacillus species are thought to competitively prevent Candida overgrowth. We investigated the molecular aspects of this antifungal effect by analyzing the interaction of C. glabrata strains with Limosilactobacillus fermentum. From a collection of clinical C. glabrata isolates, we identified strains with different sensitivities to L. fermentum in coculture. We analyzed the variation of their expression pattern to isolate the specific response to L. fermentum. C. glabrata-L. fermentum coculture induced genes associated with ergosterol biosynthesis, weak acid stress, and drug/chemical stress. L. fermentum coculture depleted C. glabrata ergosterol. The reduction of ergosterol was dependent on the Lactobacillus species, even in coculture with different Candida species. We found a similar ergosterol-depleting effect with other lactobacillus strains (Lactobacillus crispatus and Lactobacillus rhamosus) on Candida albicans, Candida tropicalis, and Candida krusei. The addition of ergosterol improved C. glabrata growth in the coculture. Blocking ergosterol synthesis with fluconazole increased the susceptibility against L. fermentum, which was again mitigated by the addition of ergosterol. In accordance, a C. glabrata Δerg11 mutant, defective in ergosterol biosynthesis, was highly sensitive to L. fermentum. In conclusion, our analysis indicates an unexpected direct function of ergosterol for C. glabrata proliferation in coculture with L. fermentum. IMPORTANCE The yeast Candida glabrata, an opportunistic fungal pathogen, and the bacterium Limosilactobacillus fermentum both inhabit the human gastrointestinal and vaginal tract. Lactobacillus species, belonging to the healthy human microbiome, are thought to prevent C. glabrata infections. We investigated the antifungal effect of Limosilactobacillus fermentum on C. glabrata strains quantitively in vitro. The interaction between C. glabrata and L. fermentum evokes an upregulation of genes required for the synthesis of ergosterol, a sterol constituent of the fungal plasma membrane. We found a dramatic reduction of ergosterol in C. glabrata when it was exposed to L. fermentum. This effect extended to other Candida species and other Lactobacillus species. Furthermore, fungal growth was efficiently suppressed by a combination of L. fermentum and fluconazole, an antifungal drug which inhibits ergosterol synthesis. Thus, fungal ergosterol is a key metabolite for the suppression of C. glabrata by L. fermentum.

Prebiotic Activity of Vaginal Lactobacilli on Bifidobacteria: from Concept to Formulation

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.

Vaginal Lactobacillus Impair Candida Dimorphic Switching and Biofilm Formation

Lactobacillus spp. generally dominate the vaginal microbiota and prevent pathogen adhesion and overgrowth, including Candida spp., by various mechanisms. Although Candida spp. can be commensal, in certain conditions they can become pathogenic, causing vulvovaginal candidiasis. The insurgence of candidiasis is related to the expression of Candida virulence factors, including morphologic switching and biofilm formation. Germ tubes, pseudohyphae, and hyphae promote Candida tissue invasion, biofilms increase persistence and are often resistant to antifungals and host immune response. Here, we explored the inhibitory activity of vaginal Lactobacillus strains belonging to Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus gasseri, Limosilactobacillus vaginalis, and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum species towards Candida virulence factors. With the aim to investigate the interrelation between mode of growth and functionality, supernatants were collected from lactobacilli planktonic cultures and, for the first time, from adherent ones, and were evaluated towards Candida dimorphic switching and biofilm. Candida biofilms were analyzed by multiple methodologies, i.e., crystal violet staining, MTT assay, and confocal microscopy. Lactobacillus supernatants reduce Candida switching and biofilm formation. Importantly, L. crispatus supernatants showed the best profile of virulence suppression, especially when grown in adherence. These results highlight the role of such species as a hallmark of vaginal eubiosis and prompt its employment in new probiotics for women's health.

Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB): Autochthonous and Probiotic Microbes for Meat Preservation and Fortification

The enhanced concern of the consumers regarding the safety, quality of the food products, and avoidance of the use of chemical food preservatives has resulted in a breakthrough in biopreservation. This has resulted in the use of beneficial microbial species, including bacteria and their secondary metabolites, to enhance the shelf-life and quality of the food products. Meat preservation and fortification are among the biggest concerns, as they are relevant to the majority of food products. The chemical preservatives conventionally used in preserving meat and meat products possess several detrimental effects on the consumers. Thus, alternative strategies are needed to combat strategically in facilitating the shelf-life and quality. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are considered the safest organism and have a profound role in food and food-processing industries. The biofilm developed by the bacteria prevents the growth of various undesirable microorganisms on meat and meat products. Various studies depicted that LAB produces various antimicrobial metabolites that can act effectively on the food-degrading pathogens, rendering it safe and enhancing shelf-life. This review, thus, deals with the use of LAB as biopreservatives for enhancing the shelf-life of meat and meat products and helping its fortification.

Genomic insights into Lactobacillus gasseri and Lactobacillus paragasseri

Background

Antimicrobial and antifungal species are essential members of the healthy human microbiota. Several different species of lactobacilli that naturally inhabit the human body have been explored for their probiotic capabilities including strains of the species Lactobacillus gasseri. However, L. gasseri (identified by 16S rRNA gene sequencing) has been associated with urogenital symptoms. Recently a new sister taxon of L. gasseri was described: L. paragasseri. L. paragasseri is also posited to have probiotic qualities.

Methods

Here, we present a genomic investigation of all (n = 79) publicly available genome assemblies for both species. These strains include isolates from the vaginal tract, gastrointestinal tract, urinary tract, oral cavity, wounds, and lungs.

Results

The two species cannot be distinguished from short-read sequencing of the 16S rRNA as the full-length gene sequences differ only by two nucleotides. Based upon average nucleotide identity (ANI), we identified 20 strains deposited as L. gasseri that are in fact representatives of L. paragasseri. Investigation of the genic content of the strains of these two species suggests recent divergence and/or frequent gene exchange between the two species. The genomes frequently harbored intact prophage sequences, including prophages identified in strains of both species. To further explore the antimicrobial potential associated with both species, genome assemblies were examined for biosynthetic gene clusters. Gassericin T and S were identified in 46 of the genome assemblies, with all L. paragasseri strains including one or both bacteriocins. This suggests that the properties once ascribed to L. gasseri may better represent the L. paragasseri species.

Evaluation of Modulatory Activities of Lactobacillus crispatus Strains in the Context of the Vaginal Microbiota

It has been widely reported that members of the genus Lactobacillus dominate the vaginal microbiota, which is represented by the most prevalent species Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus jensenii, Lactobacillus gasseri, and Lactobacillus iners. L. crispatus is furthermore considered an important microbial biomarker due to its professed beneficial implications on vaginal health. In order to identify molecular mechanisms responsible for health-promoting activities that are believed to be elicited by L. crispatus, we performed in silico investigations of the intraspecies biodiversity of vaginal microbiomes followed by in vitro experiments involving various L. crispatus strains along with other vaginal Lactobacillus species mentioned above. Specifically, we assessed their antibacterial activities against a variety of pathogenic microorganisms that are associated with vaginal infections. Moreover, coculture experiments of L. crispatus strains showing the most antibacterial activity against different pathogens revealed distinct ecological fitness and competitive properties with regard to other microbial colonizers. Interestingly, we observed that even phylogenetically closely related L. crispatus strains possess unique features in terms of their antimicrobial activities and associated competitive abilities, which suggests that they exert marked competition and evolutionary pressure within their specific environmental niche. IMPORTANCE The human vaginal microbiota includes all microorganisms that colonize the vaginal tract. In this context, a vaginal microbiota dominated by Lactobacillus and specifically by Lactobacillus crispatus is considered a hallmark of health. The role of L. crispatus in maintaining host health is linked to its modulatory activity toward other members of the vaginal ecosystem and toward the host. In this study, in vitro experiments followed by genetic analyses of the mechanisms used by L. crispatus in colonizing the vaginal ecological niche, particularly in the production of different antimicrobial compounds, were evaluated, highlighting some intriguing novel aspects concerning the genetic variability of this species. Our results indicate that this species has adapted to its niche and may still undergo adaptation to enhance its competitiveness for niche colonization.

The Microbiome as a Key Regulator of Female Genital Tract Barrier Function

The microbiome, the collection of microbial species at a site or compartment, has been an underappreciated realm of human health up until the last decade. Mounting evidence suggests the microbiome has a critical role in regulating the female genital tract (FGT) mucosa's function as a barrier against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and pathogens. In this review, we provide the most recent experimental systems and studies for analyzing the interplay between the microbiome and host cells and soluble factors with an influence on barrier function. Key components, such as microbial diversity, soluble factors secreted by host and microbe, as well as host immune system, all contribute to both the physical and immunologic aspects of the FGT mucosal barrier. Current gaps in what is known about the effects of the microbiome on FGT mucosal barrier function are compared and contrasted with the literature of the gut and respiratory mucosa. This review article presents evidence supporting that the vaginal microbiome, directly and indirectly, contributes to how well the FGT protects against infection.

The Microbial Diversity and Biofilm-Forming Characteristic of Two Traditional Tibetan Kefir Grains

In this study, a high-throughput sequencing technique was used to analyze bacterial and fungal diversity of two traditional Tibetan kefir grains from Linzhi (K1) and Naqu (K2) regions. Comparative bioinformatic analyses indicated that Lactobacillus kefiranofaciens, L. kefiri and Kluyveromyces marxianus were the main dominant strains in K1 and K2. In order to research the relationship of the growth of kefir grains, the biofilm and the extracellular polysaccharides (EPS) produced by microorganisms, the proliferation rate of kefir grains, the yield and chemical structure of EPS and the optimal days for biofilm formation were determined. The results showed that the growth rate, the yield of EPS and the biofilm formation ability of K1 were higher than K2, and the optimal day of their biofilm formation was the same in 10th day. Additionally, the live cells, dead cells and EPS in biofilm formation of K1 and K2 were observed by fluorescence microscope to clarify the formation process of kefir grains. To determine the influence of microbial interactions on biofilm and the formation of kefir grains, the essential role of microbial quorum sensing needs further attention.