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Avitabile E, Menotti L, Giordani B, Croatti V, Parolin C, Vitali B. Vaginal Lactobacilli Supernatants Protect from Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 Infection in Cell Culture Models. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2492. [PMID: 38473739 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
A healthy vaginal microbiota hosts Lactobacillus as the most predominant genus. Lactobacilli play a role in human health through the production of diverse antimicrobial substances that can act against human pathogens or modulate the immune system. Previous reports highlighted the ability of vaginal lactobacilli to counteract viruses causing STIs, e.g., HIV-1 and HSV-2. In this report, we analyze the activity of supernatants of vaginal lactobacilli against HSV-1 infection, which is becoming increasingly relevant as a STI. We show that the supernatants of two vaginal Lactobacillus species (i.e., L. crispatus and L. gasseri) were active at neutralizing HSV-1 infection in two different cell lines of human and simian origin. Specifically, we demonstrate that L. crispatus strains are the most effective in antiviral activity, as evidenced by the comparison with a vaginal pathogen taken as reference. The effect was specific and not attributable to the generic toxicity of the supernatants to the cells. Our results pave the way for the development of probiotics to limit the impact of HSV-1 infection on women's health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Avitabile
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy
| | - Laura Menotti
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy
| | - Barbara Giordani
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy
| | - Vanessa Croatti
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy
| | - Carola Parolin
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy
| | - Beatrice Vitali
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy
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Lima Â, Muzny CA, Cerca N. An Indirect Fluorescence Microscopy Method to Assess Vaginal Lactobacillus Concentrations. Microorganisms 2024; 12:114. [PMID: 38257941 PMCID: PMC10820742 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12010114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Lactobacillus species are the main colonizers of the vaginal microbiota in healthy women. Their absolute quantification by culture-based methods is limited due to their fastidious growth. Flow cytometry can quantify the bacterial concentration of these bacteria but requires the acquisition of expensive equipment. More affordable non-culturable methods, such as fluorescence microscopy, are hampered by the small size of the bacteria. Herein, we developed an indirect fluorescence microscopy method to determine vaginal lactobacilli concentration by determining the correlation between surface area bacterial measurement and initial concentration of an easily cultivable bacterium (Escherichia coli) and applying it to lactobacilli fluorescence microscopy counts. In addition, vaginal lactobacilli were quantified by colony-forming units and flow cytometry in order to compare these results with the indirect method results. The colony-forming-unit values were lower than the results obtained from the other two techniques, while flow cytometry and fluorescence microscopy results agreed. Thus, our developed method was able to accurately quantify vaginal lactobacilli.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ângela Lima
- Laboratory of Research in Biofilms Rosário Oliveira (LIBRO), Centre of Biological Engineering (CEB), University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal;
| | - Christina A. Muzny
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA;
| | - Nuno Cerca
- Laboratory of Research in Biofilms Rosário Oliveira (LIBRO), Centre of Biological Engineering (CEB), University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal;
- LABBELS—Associate Laboratory, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
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3
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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] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [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.
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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
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4
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Parolin C, Abruzzo A, Giordani B, Oliver JC, Marangoni A, Luppi B, Vitali B. Anti- Candida Activity of Hyaluronic Acid Combined with Lactobacillus crispatus Lyophilised Supernatant: A New Antifungal Strategy. Antibiotics (Basel) 2021; 10:628. [PMID: 34070335 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics10060628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) and recurrencies are common in reproductive-aged women. The emergence of Candida strains resistant to conventional antimycotic drugs prompted the search for alternative therapies. Hyaluronic acid (HA), a uniform and linear glycosaminoglycan, has been proposed as an anti-Candida agent. Vaginal lactobacilli and their derivatives, including cell free culture supernatants (CFS), represent potential strategies for the treatment of Candida infections. In the present paper, the anti-Candida potential of HA and lyophilised CFS (LCFS), obtained from the vaginal strain Lactobacillus crispatus BC5, was investigated. HA and LCFS proved to be active towards a panel of clinical Candida isolates belonging to different species in a dose dependent manner and their association maintained the antifungal activity. Notably, also Candida species generally resistant to conventional antifungals resulted sensitive. A vaginal matrix based on microcrystalline cellulose and containing effective doses of both agents was developed and characterised. This vaginal formulation showed mucoadhesive ability and almost abrogated Candida albicans growth. In conclusion, HA and LCFS from L. crispatus BC5 are thus good candidates to design a new therapeutic strategy to counteract VVC, and the proposed vaginal matrix represents a promising prototype.
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Oerlemans EFM, Wuyts S, Bellen G, Wittouck S, De Boeck I, Ruban K, Allonsius CN, van den Broek MFL, Donders GGG, Lebeer S. The Dwindling Microbiota of Aerobic Vaginitis, an Inflammatory State Enriched in Pathobionts with Limited TLR Stimulation. Diagnostics (Basel) 2020; 10:E879. [PMID: 33126716 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics10110879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
While bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a well-known type of vaginal dysbiosis, aerobic vaginitis (AV) is an inflammatory condition that remains understudied and under-recognised. It predisposes women to serious complications including urogenital infections and pregnancy problems. Here, we investigated the bacterial community in AV to explore its possible role in AV pathogenesis. We collected vaginal lavage fluid samples of women (n = 58) classified by wet-mount microscopy as suffering from AV or BV and included an asymptomatic reference group without signs of AV or BV. AV samples showed reduced absolute abundances of bacteria in general and specifically of lactobacilli by qPCR, but 16S rRNA gene sequencing and amplicon sequence variant analysis revealed that Lactobacillus remained the dominant taxon in 25% of the AV samples studied. The other AV samples showed high relative abundances of Streptococcus agalactiae and, unexpectedly, the anaerobes Gardnerella vaginalis and Prevotella bivia in more than half of the AV samples studied. Yet, despite increased relative abundance of these potential pathogens or pathobionts in the AV bacterial communities, the AV samples only slightly stimulated Toll-like receptor 4 and showed reduced activation of Toll-like receptor 2/6, receptors of two pathways central to mucosal immunity. Our findings indicate that the reduced total bacterial abundance with associated enrichment in certain pathobionts in AV might be mainly a consequence of the inflammatory conditions and/or altered hormonal regulation rather than bacteria being a major cause of the inflammation.
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Mane A, Khan I, Thakar M. Characterisation of colonisation properties of vaginal lactobacilli from healthy Indian women: Implications for identification of potential probiotic candidates. Indian J Med Microbiol 2020; 38:440-443. [PMID: 33154259 DOI: 10.4103/ijmm.ijmm_20_108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
The ability of probiotic bacteria to colonise the target site is considered of utmost importance and used for preliminary screening of potential probiotic candidates. Thirty-eight vaginal Lactobacillus strains isolated from healthy women and characterised by 16S RNA sequencing were assessed for colonisation characteristics including adherence to human vaginal epithelial cells, auto-aggregation and hydrophobicity. No significant difference in adherence (P = 0.384), auto-aggregation (P = 0.282) and hydrophobicity (P = 0.084) abilities between Lactobacillus species was observed, however, significant difference in colonisation characteristics between strains of the same species was noted (P < 0.001). We identified seven Lactobacillus strains that may serve as best candidates for vaginal probiotic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arati Mane
- ICMR-National AIDS Research Institute, 73 G Block, MIDC, Bhosari, Maharashtra, India
| | - Ishrat Khan
- ICMR-National AIDS Research Institute, 73 G Block, MIDC, Bhosari, Maharashtra, India
| | - Madhuri Thakar
- ICMR-National AIDS Research Institute, 73 G Block, MIDC, Bhosari, Maharashtra, India
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De Gregorio PR, Maldonado NC, Pingitore EV, Terraf MCL, Tomás MSJ, de Ruiz CS, Santos V, Wiese B, Bru E, Paiz MC, Reina MF, Schujman DE, Nader-Macías MEF. Intravaginal administration of gelatine capsules containing freeze-dried autochthonous lactobacilli: a double-blind, randomised clinical trial of safety. Benef Microbes 2020; 11:5-17. [PMID: 32066254 DOI: 10.3920/bm2019.0081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Vaginal lactobacilli (LAB) in probiotic formulas constitute a promising alternative for microbiome reconstitution and for the prevention and treatment of urogenital infections. A double-blind, randomised clinical trial was conducted to assess the safety of LAB-gelatine capsules vaginally administered to healthy sexually active women. Participants were randomised into three groups: intervention A: Lactobacillus reuteri CRL1324, Lactobacillus gasseri CRL1263 and CRL1307; intervention B: Lactobacillus rhamnosus CRL1332, L. gasseri CRL1256 and CRL1320; and intervention C: placebo. In a survey and clinical evaluation, participants received a blister with 7 capsules to be administered 1 per day. A second sampling and a new survey were conducted 3-10 days after completing application. Colposcopy was performed to assess adverse effects on vaginal-cervical mucosa. Vaginal swabs were taken for Gram staining to determine the Nugent score, and obtainment of viable-cell cultures to quantify cultivable lactic acid bacteria and pathogens. The main outcomes evaluated were overall satisfaction and secondary effects, including discomfort, urogenital infection, inflammatory response or other symptoms. No significant differences were found in Nugent score or in leukocyte numbers in vaginal samples either before or after the three interventions. However, a tendency to decrease in both the Nugent score and in leukocyte numbers was observed after interventions A and B, though not after C. A significant increase in cultivable lactobacilli was determined after LAB interventions. No severe adverse events were detected. LAB-containing capsules were well tolerated by subjects, so they could be proposed as an adequate alternative to restore vaginal lactobacilli in sexually active women.
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Affiliation(s)
- P R De Gregorio
- Centro de Referencia para Lactobacilos (CERELA)-CONICET, Chacabuco 145, 4000 San Miguel de Tucumán, Tucumán, Argentina
| | - N C Maldonado
- Centro de Referencia para Lactobacilos (CERELA)-CONICET, Chacabuco 145, 4000 San Miguel de Tucumán, Tucumán, Argentina
| | - E Vera Pingitore
- Centro de Referencia para Lactobacilos (CERELA)-CONICET, Chacabuco 145, 4000 San Miguel de Tucumán, Tucumán, Argentina
| | - M C Leccese Terraf
- Centro de Referencia para Lactobacilos (CERELA)-CONICET, Chacabuco 145, 4000 San Miguel de Tucumán, Tucumán, Argentina
| | - M S Juárez Tomás
- Centro de Referencia para Lactobacilos (CERELA)-CONICET, Chacabuco 145, 4000 San Miguel de Tucumán, Tucumán, Argentina
| | - C Silva de Ruiz
- Facultad de Bioquímica, Química y Farmacia. Universidad Nacional de Tucumán, Ayacucho 471, 4000 San Miguel de Tucumán, Tucumán, Argentina
| | - V Santos
- Facultad de Bioquímica, Química y Farmacia. Universidad Nacional de Tucumán, Ayacucho 471, 4000 San Miguel de Tucumán, Tucumán, Argentina
| | - B Wiese
- Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Institut für Allgemeinmedizin (OE 5440) AG Medizinische Statistik und IT-Infrastruktur Carl-Neuberg-Straβe 1, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - E Bru
- Centro de Referencia para Lactobacilos (CERELA)-CONICET, Chacabuco 145, 4000 San Miguel de Tucumán, Tucumán, Argentina
| | - M C Paiz
- Hospital de Clínicas Nicolás Avellaneda, Catamarca 2000, 4000 San Miguel de Tucumán, Tucumán, Argentina
| | - M F Reina
- Hospital de Clínicas Nicolás Avellaneda, Catamarca 2000, 4000 San Miguel de Tucumán, Tucumán, Argentina
| | - D E Schujman
- Hospital de Clínicas Nicolás Avellaneda, Catamarca 2000, 4000 San Miguel de Tucumán, Tucumán, Argentina
| | - M E F Nader-Macías
- Centro de Referencia para Lactobacilos (CERELA)-CONICET, Chacabuco 145, 4000 San Miguel de Tucumán, Tucumán, Argentina
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8
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Amato V, Papaleo E, Pasciuta R, Viganò P, Ferrarese R, Clementi N, Sanchez AM, Quaranta L, Burioni R, Ambrosi A, Salonia A, Clementi M, Candiani M, Mancini N. Differential Composition of Vaginal Microbiome, but Not of Seminal Microbiome, Is Associated With Successful Intrauterine Insemination in Couples With Idiopathic Infertility: A Prospective Observational Study. Open Forum Infect Dis 2019; 7:ofz525. [PMID: 31915713 PMCID: PMC6942492 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofz525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Vaginal and seminal microbiomes have gained increasing interest for their involvement in reproductive health and fertility. However, their role in reproductive outcome is not fully understood yet. In this study, we aimed to correlate the vaginal and the seminal microbiome of 23 couples with idiopathic infertility to the clinical pregnancy rate after intrauterine insemination (IUI). Methods Vaginal swabs and seminal fluids were collected on the day of IUI procedure and analyzed through polymerase chain reaction amplification of variable regions 3 and 4 (V3–V4) of 16S ribosomal ribonucleic acid genes and Illumina MiSeq sequencing. The taxonomic data were then correlated to IUI success. Results Idiopathic infertile women showed a different average composition of vaginal microbiome compared with control sequences, whereas for seminal counterpart no relevant differences were observed. Furthermore, among idiopathic infertile women, different patterns of Lactobacillus species dominations were observed, with a predominance either of Lactobacillus crispatus, a marker of a healthy vaginal ecosystem, or of Lactobacillus iners and Lactobacillus gasseri, associated with a more dysbiosis-prone environment. More important, considering all investigated variables, vaginal L crispatus domination was the only factor strongly associated to IUI success (P = .0002). Conclusions Our results strengthen the potential role of L crispatus in promoting a favorable environment for pregnancy and suggest that microbiome characterization could be useful, together with standard clinical and laboratory assessments, in the pre-IUI evaluation of infertile couples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Amato
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, "Vita-Salute" San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Enrico Papaleo
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Renée Pasciuta
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Viganò
- Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberto Ferrarese
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Nicola Clementi
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, "Vita-Salute" San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Ana Maria Sanchez
- Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Lavinia Quaranta
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberto Burioni
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, "Vita-Salute" San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Ambrosi
- Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, "Vita-Salute" San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Salonia
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, URI, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Clementi
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, "Vita-Salute" San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy.,Microbiology and Virology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Candiani
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, "Vita-Salute" San Raffaele University School of Medicine, IRCCS, Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Nicasio Mancini
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, "Vita-Salute" San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy.,Microbiology and Virology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
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Abstract
In recent years, a vast quantity of clinical data has been accumulated on the pathophysiology of symptomatic vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA)/genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) in peri- and postmenopausal women and on the treatment options for these conditions. Guidelines from several societies have recently been updated in favor of VVA/GSM vaginal therapy with the lowest possible doses of estrogens. The combination of a vaginal ultra-low dose of 0.03 mg of estriol (E3) and lyophilized, viable Lactobacillus acidophilus KS400 (0.03 mg-E3/L) is a unique product with a dual mechanism of action supporting not only the proliferation and maturation of the vaginal epithelium, but also restoration of the lactobacillary microflora. It has been demonstrated efficiently to establish and maintain a healthy vaginal ecosystem. Use of this combination considerably improves the clinical signs and symptoms as well as the quality of life of menopausal women suffering from vaginal atrophy. This combination therapy is well tolerated with a low overall incidence of side-effects and negligible estriol absorption. Based on recent scientific evidence and current treatment guidelines, the 0.03 mg-E3/L combination could be considered one of the options for the treatment of symptomatic vaginal atrophy in aging menopausal women.
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Affiliation(s)
- A O Mueck
- a Sections of Endocrinology & Menopause, Department of Women's Health , University Hospitals of Tuebingen , Tuebingen , Germany.,b Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Beijing Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital , Capital Medical University , Beijing , China
| | - X Ruan
- a Sections of Endocrinology & Menopause, Department of Women's Health , University Hospitals of Tuebingen , Tuebingen , Germany.,b Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Beijing Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital , Capital Medical University , Beijing , China
| | - V Prasauskas
- c Scientific & Medical Department , Medinova AG , Zurich , Switzerland
| | - P Grob
- c Scientific & Medical Department , Medinova AG , Zurich , Switzerland
| | - O Ortmann
- d Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology , University Medical Center Regensburg , Regensburg , Germany
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Tobita K, Watanabe I, Saito M. Specific vaginal lactobacilli suppress the inflammation induced by lipopolysaccharide stimulation through downregulation of toll-like receptor 4 expression in human embryonic intestinal epithelial cells. Biosci Microbiota Food Health 2017; 36:39-44. [PMID: 28243550 PMCID: PMC5301056 DOI: 10.12938/bmfh.16-011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2016] [Accepted: 10/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Vaginal lactobacilli (VLB) spread from the mother to the infant during vaginal delivery. However, the effects of VLB on infant intestinal function remain
unclear. We investigated the probiotic function and immune effects of VLB on the human embryonic intestinal epithelial cell line INT-407. VLB survived
artificial gastric juice and adhered to INT-407 cells. Exposure of INT-407 cells to VLB attenuated both the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced stimulation of
interleukin-8 and tumor necrosis factor alpha production and the LPS-stimulated upregulation of TLR4 expression. These results suggest that specific VLB
suppresses the inflammation induced by LPS stimulation through downregulation of TLR4 expression in human embryonic intestinal epithelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keisuke Tobita
- KITII Co., Ltd., SEI building, 5 Araki-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0007, Japan
| | - Itsuki Watanabe
- KITII Co., Ltd., SEI building, 5 Araki-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0007, Japan
| | - Masanori Saito
- Nihon University School of Dentistry at Matsudo, 2-870-1 Sakaecho-Nishi, Matsudo-shi, Chiba 271-8587, Japan
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11
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Siroli L, Patrignani F, Serrazanetti DI, Parolin C, Ñahui Palomino RA, Vitali B, Lanciotti R. Determination of Antibacterial and Technological Properties of Vaginal Lactobacilli for Their Potential Application in Dairy Products. Front Microbiol 2017; 8:166. [PMID: 28223974 PMCID: PMC5293754 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2017.00166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2016] [Accepted: 01/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Functional foods could differently affect human health in relation to the gender. Recent studies have highlighted the anti-Candida and anti-Chlamydia activities of some Lactobacillus strains isolated from the vagina of healthy women. Considering these important beneficial activities on women's health, the preparation of functional food containing active vaginal lactobacilli can represent a great scientific challenge for the female gender. In this context, the aim of this work was to study some functional and technological properties of 17 vaginal strains belonging to the species Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus gasseri, and Lactobacillus vaginalis in the perspective to include them in dairy products. The antagonistic activities against the pathogenic and spoilage species associated to food products and against the principal etiological agents of the genitourinary tract infections were evaluated. Moreover, the vaginal lactobacilli were characterized for their antibiotic resistance, and for their fermentation kinetics and viability during the refrigerated storage in milk. Finally, the volatile molecule profiles of the obtained fermented milks were determined. The results showed that several strains, mainly belonging to the species Lactobacillus crispatus, exhibited a significant antagonistic activity against spoilage and pathogenic microorganisms of food interest, as well as against urogenital pathogens. All the vaginal lactobacilli showed antimicrobial activity against strains belonging to the foodborne pathogenic species Listeria monocytogenes, Listeria innocua, Eenterococcus faecalis and Escherichia coli. In addition, most of the Lactobacillus strains were active toward the main pathogens responsible of vaginal and urinary tract infections including Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecium, Gardnerella vaginalis, and Proteus mirabilis. The antimicrobial activity can be attributed to the high production of organic acids. The fermentation kinetics in milk indicated the unsuitability of these lactobacilli as fermentation starters for the industrial production of dairy products. However, some strains, belonging to the species Lactobacillus crispatus and Lactobacillus gasseri, maintained a high viability in pasteurized milk at 4°C for over a month, showing their potential application as adjunct cultures for the production of female gender foods. These data represent a first step for the set-up of a new functional dairy product, directed to the women well-being, contributing also to innovate the dairy sector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Siroli
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of BolognaCesena, Italy
| | - Francesca Patrignani
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of BolognaCesena, Italy
- Interdepartmental Center for Industrial Agri-Food Research, University of BolognaCesena, Italy
| | - Diana I. Serrazanetti
- Interdepartmental Center for Industrial Agri-Food Research, University of BolognaCesena, Italy
| | - Carola Parolin
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of BolognaBologna, Italy
| | | | - Beatrice Vitali
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of BolognaBologna, Italy
| | - Rosalba Lanciotti
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of BolognaCesena, Italy
- Interdepartmental Center for Industrial Agri-Food Research, University of BolognaCesena, Italy
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12
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Hütt P, Lapp E, Štšepetova J, Smidt I, Taelma H, Borovkova N, Oopkaup H, Ahelik A, Rööp T, Hoidmets D, Samuel K, Salumets A, Mändar R. Characterisation of probiotic properties in human vaginal lactobacilli strains. Microb Ecol Health Dis 2016; 27:30484. [PMID: 27527701 PMCID: PMC4985617 DOI: 10.3402/mehd.v27.30484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2015] [Revised: 06/14/2016] [Accepted: 06/29/2016] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vaginal lactobacilli offer protection against recurrent urinary infections, bacterial vaginosis, and vaginal candidiasis. OBJECTIVE To characterise the isolated vaginal lactobacilli strains for their probiotic properties and to compare their probiotic potential. METHODS The Lactobacillus strains were isolated from vaginal samples by conventional culturing and identified by sequencing of the 16S rDNA fragment. Several functional properties were detected (production of hydrogen peroxide and lactic acid; antagonistic activity against Escherichia coli, Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, and Gardnerella vaginalis; auto-aggregation and adhesiveness) as well as safety (haemolytic activity, antibiotic susceptibility, presence of transferrable resistance genes). RESULTS A total of 135 vaginal lactobacilli strains of three species, Lactobacillus crispatus (56%), Lactobacillus jensenii (26%), and Lactobacillus gasseri (18%) were characterised using several functional and safety tests. Most of L. crispatus (89%) and L. jensenii (86%) strains produced H2O2. The best lactic acid producers were L. gasseri (18.2±2.2 mg/ml) compared to L. crispatus (15.6±2.8 mg/ml) and L. jensenii (11.6±2.6 mg/ml) (p<0.0001; p<0.0001, respectively). L. crispatus strains showed significantly higher anti-E. coli activity compared to L. jensenii. L. gasseri strains expressed significantly lower anticandidal activity compared to L. crispatus and L. jensenii (p<0.0001). There was no significant difference between the species in antagonistic activity against G. vaginalis. Nearly a third of the strains were able to auto-aggregate while all the tested strains showed a good ability to adhere to HeLa cells. None of the tested lactobacilli caused haemolysis. Although phenotypical resistance was not found to ampicillin, chloramphenicol, erythromycin, gentamycin, tetracycline, and vancomycin, the erm(B), tet(M), and tet(K) were detected in some strains. All strains were resistant to metronidazole, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, and kanamycin. CONCLUSIONS Our study revealed that the production of different antimicrobial metabolites is highly strain-specific and that the metabolites are not correlated with each other. L. crispatus displays better antagonistic activity against E. coli and Candida spp. than L. gasseri and L. jensenii; therefore; a potential probiotic candidate could be found among L. crispatus strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pirje Hütt
- Department of Microbiology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Eleri Lapp
- Department of Microbiology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Jelena Štšepetova
- Department of Microbiology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Imbi Smidt
- Department of Microbiology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Heleri Taelma
- Department of Microbiology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Natalja Borovkova
- Department of Microbiology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Helen Oopkaup
- Department of Microbiology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Ave Ahelik
- Department of Microbiology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Tiiu Rööp
- Department of Microbiology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Dagmar Hoidmets
- Department of Microbiology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Külli Samuel
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia
| | | | - Reet Mändar
- Department of Microbiology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia;
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13
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Smidt I, Kiiker R, Oopkaup H, Lapp E, Rööp T, Truusalu K, Štšepetova J, Truu J, Mändar R. Comparison of detection methods for vaginal lactobacilli. Benef Microbes 2015; 6:747-51. [PMID: 25869280 DOI: 10.3920/bm2014.0154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Vaginal lactobacilli offer protection against microbiota imbalance and genitourinary tract infections. We compared vaginal lactobacilli in 50 Estonian women of child-bearing age applying culture-based methods, quantitative PCR and next-generation sequencing (NGS). The culture-based methods found three different lactobacilli: Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus jensenii and Lactobacillus gasseri. Using NGS revealed the presence of L. crispatus in 76%, Lactobacillus iners in 52%, L. jensenii in 47% and L. gasseri in 33% of the samples. According to qPCR, L. iners was present in 67% and L. crispatus in 64% of the samples. The proportions of L. crispatus revealed by qPCR and NGS were in good correlation (R=0.79, P<0.001), while that of L. iners correlated poorly (R=0.13, P>0.05). Good concordance for L. crispatus was also found between the results of the culture-based method and qPCR. Finally, good overlap between the results of the culture-based method and NGS was revealed: in case of a positive NGS result for L. crispatus, the same species was isolated in 95% of samples. The corresponding percentages were 82% for L. jensenii and 86% for L. gasseri. Our data indicate fairly general concordance of the three methods for detecting vaginal lactobacilli, except for L. iners. This points out the importance of standardisation of techniques, and the respective studies should involve cultures applying a medium suitable for the fastidious L. iners.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Smidt
- 1 Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, Ravila 19, Tartu 50411, Estonia.,2 Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tiigi 61b, Tartu 50410, Estonia
| | - R Kiiker
- 2 Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tiigi 61b, Tartu 50410, Estonia.,3 Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Tartu, Ravila 19, Tartu 50411, Estonia
| | - H Oopkaup
- 1 Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, Ravila 19, Tartu 50411, Estonia
| | - E Lapp
- 1 Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, Ravila 19, Tartu 50411, Estonia.,2 Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tiigi 61b, Tartu 50410, Estonia
| | - T Rööp
- 1 Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, Ravila 19, Tartu 50411, Estonia.,2 Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tiigi 61b, Tartu 50410, Estonia
| | - K Truusalu
- 1 Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, Ravila 19, Tartu 50411, Estonia
| | - J Štšepetova
- 1 Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, Ravila 19, Tartu 50411, Estonia.,2 Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tiigi 61b, Tartu 50410, Estonia
| | - J Truu
- 2 Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tiigi 61b, Tartu 50410, Estonia.,3 Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Tartu, Ravila 19, Tartu 50411, Estonia
| | - R Mändar
- 1 Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, Ravila 19, Tartu 50411, Estonia.,2 Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tiigi 61b, Tartu 50410, Estonia
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14
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Leccese Terraf MC, Mendoza LM, Juárez Tomás MS, Silva C, Nader-Macías MEF. Phenotypic surface properties (aggregation, adhesion and biofilm formation) and presence of related genes in beneficial vaginal lactobacilli. J Appl Microbiol 2014; 117:1761-72. [PMID: 25195810 DOI: 10.1111/jam.12642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2014] [Revised: 08/02/2014] [Accepted: 08/30/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To evaluate the phenotypic expression of auto-aggregation, adhesion to mucin and biofilm formation of lactobacilli isolated from human vagina and the presence of related genes. METHODS AND RESULTS Seven different strains of three Lactobacillus species (Lactobacillus gasseri, Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus reuteri) were evaluated. The auto-aggregation property was determined by spectrophotometric assay and flow cytometry. Adhesion and biofilm formation were assayed by crystal violet staining. The presence of the genes encoding sortases, pilin subunits and surface proteins was evaluated by polymerase chain reactions. The two Lact. reuteri strains assayed showed high auto-aggregation, adhesion to mucin and biofilm formation ability. In these strains, the genes encoding three adhesion proteins were identified. In Lact. rhamnosus CRL (Centro de Referencia para Lactobacilos Culture Collection) 1332, pilus-encoding genes were detected. In all Lact. rhamnosus strains assayed, two genes encoding for other surface proteins related to adhesion and biofilm formation were detected. CONCLUSIONS The vaginal lactobacilli assayed exhibited phenotypic and genetic characteristics that were specific for each strain. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY This is the first study on auto-aggregation, adhesion and biofilm formation of vaginal Lactobacillus strains by phenotypic and genetic assays.
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Affiliation(s)
- M C Leccese Terraf
- Centro de Referencia para Lactobacilos (CERELA-CONICET), Tucumán, Argentina
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15
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Brolazo EM, Leite DS, Tiba MR, Villarroel M, Marconi C, Simoes JA. Correlation between api 50 ch and multiplex polymerase chain reaction for the identification of vaginal lactobacilli in isolates. Braz J Microbiol 2013; 42:225-32. [PMID: 24031625 PMCID: PMC3768916 DOI: 10.1590/s1517-83822011000100028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2009] [Revised: 10/16/2009] [Accepted: 11/04/2010] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Identification of Lactobacillus sp. strains by phenotypic methods may lead to doubtful results possibly interfering in the reliability of the epidemiological and probiotics studies. Therefore this study aimed to determine the best methodology for the identification of the large diversity of lactobacilli species found in the vagina by comparing two techniques, one based on their biochemical profile and other employing molecular biology. A carbohydrate fermentation test (API 50 CH) was compared with multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for the identification of species of vaginal lactobacilli from 135 healthy women. The kappa index was used to evaluate agreement between the methods. Using the molecular technique, L. crispatus (32.6%), L. jensenii (25%) and L. gasseri (20.6%) were the most frequent species. However, using the biochemical technique, the most frequent species were: L. acidophilus (34.8%), L. crispatus (27.2%) and L. fermentum (13%). Although L. acidophilus was the most frequent specie found by biochemical tests, no strain of this microorganism was detected by PCR. Agreement between the methods was low for identification of all the most common species. Although rates of L. crispatus detected were similar using both methods (32.6% and 27.2%), agreement between them was relatively low (kappa = 0.52). Conclusions: Our results confirmed the limitation of the biochemical method and the applicability of a previously published molecular method (Multiplex PCR) for the identification of lactobacilli in the vaginal tract, focusing on further necessity of its improvement for also targeting L. vaginalis and L. iners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eliane Melo Brolazo
- Departamento de Obstetrícia e Ginecologia , Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, SP , Brasil
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Aldunate M, Tyssen D, Johnson A, Zakir T, Sonza S, Moench T, Cone R, Tachedjian G. Vaginal concentrations of lactic acid potently inactivate HIV. J Antimicrob Chemother 2013; 68:2015-25. [PMID: 23657804 PMCID: PMC3743514 DOI: 10.1093/jac/dkt156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES When Lactobacillus spp. dominate the vaginal microbiota of women of reproductive age they acidify the vagina to pH <4.0 by producing ∼1% lactic acid in a nearly racemic mixture of d- and l-isomers. We determined the HIV virucidal activity of racemic lactic acid, and its d- and l-isomers, compared with acetic acid and acidity alone (by the addition of HCl). METHODS HIV-1 and HIV-2 were transiently treated with acids in the absence or presence of human genital secretions at 37°C for different time intervals, then immediately neutralized and residual infectivity determined in the TZM-bl reporter cell line. RESULTS l-lactic acid at 0.3% (w/w) was 17-fold more potent than d-lactic acid in inactivating HIVBa-L. Complete inactivation of different HIV-1 subtypes and HIV-2 was achieved with ≥0.4% (w/w) l-lactic acid. At a typical vaginal pH of 3.8, l-lactic acid at 1% (w/w) more potently and rapidly inactivated HIVBa-L and HIV-1 transmitter/founder strains compared with 1% (w/w) acetic acid and with acidity alone, all adjusted to pH 3.8. A final concentration of 1% (w/w) l-lactic acid maximally inactivated HIVBa-L in the presence of cervicovaginal secretions and seminal plasma. The anti-HIV activity of l-lactic acid was pH dependent, being abrogated at neutral pH, indicating that its virucidal activity is mediated by protonated lactic acid and not the lactate anion. CONCLUSIONS l-lactic acid at physiological concentrations demonstrates potent HIV virucidal activity distinct from acidity alone and greater than acetic acid, suggesting a protective role in the sexual transmission of HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muriel Aldunate
- Centre for Virology, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria 3004, Australia.
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