Phage Infection in Vaginal Lactobacilli: An In Vitro Study
Author Information
Author(s): Sylvia I. Pavlova, Ali O. Kilig, Susan M. Mou, Lin Tao
Primary Institution: University of Missouri-Kansas City
Hypothesis
Can vaginal lactobacilli be infected by phages during bacterial vaginosis?
Conclusion
Bacteriophages were isolated from vaginal lactobacilli and shown to lyse vaginal Lactobacillus strains in vitro.
Supporting Evidence
- 12 out of 20 samples from women with vaginal infections did not have lactobacilli.
- 37 Lactobacillus strains were isolated from 39 women.
- All 7 isolated phages infected vaginal lactobacilli from the same and/or different women in vitro.
Takeaway
Some viruses called phages can infect good bacteria in the vagina, which might make them less effective.
Methodology
Vaginal samples were collected from 39 women, and phages were isolated and analyzed for their ability to infect lactobacilli.
Limitations
The study was conducted in vitro, and results may not directly represent in vivo conditions.
Participant Demographics
39 reproductive-aged women, including 1 Native American, 5 Asians, 6 Blacks, and 27 Caucasians, aged 19-52 years.
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website