Lactobacillus Metabolites' Antimicrobial Effects on Candida Species
Journal name: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
Original article title: The In Vitro Antimicrobial Activities of Metabolites from Lactobacillus Strains on Candida Species Implicated in Candida Vaginitis
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences (MJMS) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal published online at least six times a year. It covers all aspects of medical sciences and prioritizes high-quality research.
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Adenike A O Ogunshe, Mopelola A Omotoso, Victoria B Bello
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences:
(A peer-reviewed, open-access journal)
Full text available for: The In Vitro Antimicrobial Activities of Metabolites from Lactobacillus Strains on Candida Species Implicated in Candida Vaginitis
Year: 2011
Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), commonly caused by Candida species, is a prevalent sexually transmitted disease, particularly affecting women in developing countries like Nigeria. The vaginal microflora plays a crucial role in protecting against pathogenic microorganisms, and lactobacilli are the predominant members of a healthy vaginal ecosystem. These bacteria produce antimicrobial metabolites that can inhibit the growth of pathogens. However, research on the role of indigenous Lactobacillus species in the female urogenital tract, particularly in the context of infections like VVC, remains limited. This study aimed to analyze the antimicrobial properties of indigenous Lactobacillus strains isolated from the vaginas of both healthy and diseased Nigerian females to assess their potential biotherapeutic application against Candida species.
Antimicrobial Potential of Lactobacillus Species
The study revealed that Lactobacillus strains from healthy subjects exhibited a significantly higher in vitro inhibitory effect on Candida species compared to those from diseased patients. Specifically, Lactobacillus strains isolated from healthy women inhibited 57.1% to 68.6% of the Candida species tested, while those from diseased subjects demonstrated only a 5.71% inhibition rate. The antimicrobial metabolites produced by these Lactobacillus strains included lactic acid, hydrogen peroxide, and diacetyl, with maximum production levels occurring between 72 and 120 hours of incubation. Although the Lactobacillus strains from diseased patients produced these metabolites, their effectiveness was considerably lower than that of strains from healthy individuals, indicating the potential of healthy lactobacilli as effective biotherapeutic agents.
Conclusion
The findings suggest that indigenous Lactobacillus species possess antimicrobial properties that could be beneficial as adjunct treatments for vulvovaginal candidiasis, especially in cases of resistance to conventional antifungal therapies. The production of lactic acid, hydrogen peroxide, and diacetyl by these strains underscores their potential role in maintaining vaginal health and preventing infections. Given the limitations in the current management of candidiasis, further research into the utilization of these indigenous Lactobacillus strains could lead to effective alternatives for combating VVC, enhancing both treatment outcomes and the understanding of vaginal microbiota dynamics in various populations.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the primary focus of this study on Lactobacillus species?
The study investigates the clinical biotherapeutic potential of indigenous Lactobacillus species in the vaginal microbiota, assessing their ability to inhibit Candida species associated with vulvovaginal candidiasis, particularly in the context of Nigerian women.
How were Lactobacillus strains identified in this research?
Strains were identified through phenotypic characteristics, including cell morphology, biochemical tests, and fermentation patterns. Vaginal specimens from both diseased and healthy subjects were cultured and analyzed for distinct Lactobacillus species.
What were the antimicrobial effects of Lactobacillus strains from healthy subjects?
Lactobacillus strains from healthy subjects inhibited between 57.1% and 68.6% of Candida species, showing significant in vitro antagonistic activity compared to those from diseased subjects, which only inhibited 5.71%.
What conclusions can be drawn about Lactobacillus as a treatment option?
The study suggests that antimicrobial-producing Lactobacillus strains could serve as adjunct bio-therapeutic candidates for treating recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis, especially where conventional antifungals may be ineffective or cause adverse effects.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Lactobacillus Metabolites' Antimicrobial Effects on Candida Species”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Species:
In the context of microbiology, 'species' denotes a group of organisms that share common characteristics and can interbreed. Understanding the species of Lactobacillus and Candida aids researchers in studying their interactions within the vaginal microbiome, influencing health outcomes like vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC).
2) Study (Studying):
'Study' refers to systematic research aimed at discovering knowledge. In this context, the study investigates the potential of indigenous Lactobacillus species to combat vaginal infections. It highlights the importance of research from developing countries to enhance understanding of local microbial flora and their clinical implications.
3) Drug:
'Drug' signifies substances used to treat or prevent disease. The study discusses various antifungal drugs for treating candidiasis, highlighting the challenges posed by resistance. Considering alternative therapeutic options, such as Lactobacillus species, reflects a critical approach in combating drug-resistant infections.
4) Activity:
'Activity' in this context refers to the biological functions exhibited by microbial strains, particularly their antagonistic effects against pathogens. Assessing the activity of Lactobacillus strains against Candida species is essential for determining their potential as biotherapeutics in managing vulvovaginal infections.
5) Food:
'Food' encompasses substances consumed for nutrition. The relevance here arises from the production of antimicrobial metabolites like lactic acid and diacetyl by Lactobacillus during fermentation, linking dietary sources to microbial health. This emphasizes the importance of dietary influence on the vaginal microbiota balance.
6) Table:
'Table' refers to the structured representation of data. In research writing, tables summarize experimental results, such as the antimicrobial effects of Lactobacillus strains against Candida species. They provide clear, organized information critical for understanding patterns and outcomes in scientific assessments.
7) Disease:
'Disease' denotes an abnormal condition affecting the body, often resulting in dysfunction. The study focuses on vulvovaginal candidiasis, a common disease caused by Candida species. Understanding its prevalence and treatment options is vital for public health, particularly for women in developing countries.
8) Substance:
'Substance' describes a material with particular properties. In this research, numerous substances, such as lactic acid, hydrogen peroxide, and diacetyl, produced by Lactobacillus species are explored for their antimicrobial effects. Recognizing these substances helps in identifying potential therapeutic agents in combating infections.
9) Developing:
'Developing' signifies nations with evolving economies and healthcare infrastructure. The study emphasizes the need for research in developing countries like Nigeria, striving to address local health challenges related to infections like vulvovaginal candidiasis, thus promoting the advancement of regional healthcare knowledge and practices.
10) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
'Antibiotic' refers to drugs targeting bacterial infections. The research contrasts antibiotics with Lactobacillus treatments for candidiasis, highlighting issues of antibiotic resistance. These concerns underscore the need for alternative approaches in treating infections while minimizing reliance on antibiotics, particularly in vulnerable populations.
11) Medium:
'Medium' pertains to the substance in which organisms grow, crucial in microbiology. The study used various growth media for culturing Lactobacillus and Candida strains. Understanding growth conditions influences experimental outcomes, affecting the overall assessment of microbial activity against pathogens.
12) Science (Scientific):
'Science' is the systematic study of the natural world. This research exemplifies scientific inquiry by investigating Lactobacillus species and their effects on vaginal health, contributing to the broader field of microbiology and therapeutic development in addressing female urogenital infections.
13) Aroma (A-roma):
'Aroma' refers to a distinctive smell. In the study, the aroma produced by specific Lactobacillus strains suggests metabolic by-products like diacetyl contribute to sensory attributes in food and may influence microbial interactions in the vaginal ecosystem, affecting overall health.
14) Sugar:
'Sugar' pertains to simple carbohydrates utilized by microorganisms for energy. The study examines the fermentation of sugars by Lactobacillus species, leading to the production of antimicrobial metabolites. This metabolic process signifies the importance of diet in microbial health dynamics.
15) Burning sensation:
'Burning sensation' denotes a common symptom experienced in conditions like candidiasis. Recognizing such symptoms is essential for clinical diagnosis and emphasizes the need for effective treatment options, as patients often seek immediate remedies for discomfort associated with vaginal infections.
16) Pharmacotherapy:
'Pharmacotherapy' involves the treatment of disease through drug therapy. The study reflects on pharmacotherapy strategies in managing candidiasis, examining both conventional antifungal drugs and potential adjunct therapies like Lactobacillus species, advocating for comprehensive treatment approaches to combat resistance.
17) Accumulation (Accumulating, Accumulate):
'Accumulated' describes the gradual gathering of substances or knowledge. In the context of the study, it refers to the production levels of antimicrobial metabolites over time, emphasizing the importance of timing in evaluating the effectiveness of Lactobacillus species against pathogens.
18) Knowledge:
'Knowledge' signifies information, understanding, and skills acquired through experience or education. The importance of advancing knowledge regarding indigenous Lactobacillus and their biotherapeutic potential is highlighted in the study, aiming to improve health outcomes in communities facing candidiasis.
19) Medicine:
'Medicine' pertains to the science and practice of diagnosing and treating diseases. This study emphasizes the medicinal properties of Lactobacillus against vulvovaginal candidiasis, advocating for their role in alternative treatment considerations and advancing therapeutic strategies in women's health.
20) Epidemic:
'Epidemic' indicates a widespread occurrence of a disease within a community or region. The study cites the epidemic proportions of sexually transmitted infections in developing countries, including candidiasis, necessitating targeted research and interventions to improve health services and education.
21) Relative:
'Relative' refers to concepts understood in comparison to others. In this study, it pertains to the relative effectiveness of Lactobacillus species against various Candida strains compared to traditional antifungal treatments, underscoring the need for comprehensive evaluations of different therapeutic options.
22) Pregnant:
'Pregnant' indicates the state of carrying a developing embryo or fetus. This term is relevant as hormonal changes during pregnancy may influence susceptibility to vaginal infections like candidiasis, highlighting the importance of understanding maternal health risks and integrating effective management strategies.
23) Pungent:
'Pungent' describes a sharply strong smell or taste. Comments on the pungent aromas associated with Lactobacillus strains in diseased patients suggest a correlation between health conditions and microbial activity, emphasizing the potential role of olfactory characteristics in assessing vaginal microbiome health.
24) Quality:
'Quality' refers to the standard or degree of excellence of something. In the context of women's health, the quality of vaginal microbiota, influenced by factors like Lactobacillus presence, is critical for preventing infections and ensuring overall reproductive health and hygiene.
25) Burning (Burn, Burned, Burnt):
'Burning' describes a painful sensation often associated with inflammation or infection, as experienced by women with candidiasis. Recognizing this symptom is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment, highlighting the need for effective therapeutic interventions to alleviate discomfort.
26) Itching:
'Itching' denotes an uncomfortable sensation prompting the desire to scratch. This common symptom in vaginal infections like candidiasis significantly affects women's quality of life, underlining the necessity for effective management strategies and a better understanding of microbial influences on such symptoms.
27) Mishra (Misra):
'Mishra' is a surname representing a researcher relevant to studies on Candida infections. The inclusion of various researchers in scientific discourse lends credibility to the findings, emphasizing collaborative efforts in understanding and addressing issues like antifungal resistance in clinical settings.
28) Aureus:
'Aureus' refers to the species *Staphylococcus aureus*, a common pathogenic bacterium. Its mention in research highlights the significance of studying various pathogens and their interactions with microbial populations, underlining the importance of understanding the dynamic microbial landscape within human health.
29) Sharman (Sarma, Sharma, Sarman):
'Sharma' is a surname associated with researchers in the field of microbiology. The presence of multiple authors reinforces the collaborative nature of scientific research and underscores the vital contributions of diverse experts in advancing knowledge about infections like candidiasis.
30) Purity:
'Purity' indicates the quality of being undiluted or free from contaminants. It is important in microbiology for ensuring the accuracy of experimental results and the reliability of Lactobacillus strains used in research, as impurities can affect the assessment of antimicrobial activities.
31) Nature:
'Nature' refers to the inherent qualities or characteristics of organisms. In this study, it implies understanding the natural roles of Lactobacillus and Candida species in the vaginal ecosystem, promoting research on how these microbial interactions influence health outcomes and disease prevention.
32) Gupta:
'Gupta' is a surname associated with researchers contributing to microbiological studies. Their involvement highlights the importance of collaboration in scientific research, as diverse perspectives enhance comprehensive understanding of topics like vaginal health and candidiasis treatment strategies.
33) Patta:
'Patta' refers to a specific researcher noted in the study. The inclusion of various authors signifies the collaborative effort in research, which contributes to a broader understanding of microbial interactions and health implications, especially in the context of women’s reproductive health.
34) Trade:
'Trade' signifies the exchange of goods and services. In this context, it could reference the commercialization of pharmaceuticals or alternative treatments, underscoring the economic implications of health research and the need for affordable, effective therapies for common infections.
35) Blood:
'Blood' usually pertains to the fluid circulation within an organism's body. In medical context, its mention may relate to the health implications of systemic infections or the role of the immune system in responding to infections like candidiasis, underscoring interconnected physiological processes.
36) Diet:
'Diet' encompasses the types of food consumed by individuals. It directly influences microbiota composition and, as the study highlights, can significantly impact the vaginal ecosystem's health, suggesting that nutritional interventions can aid in preventing infections like candidiasis.
37) Life:
'Life' embodies the condition of being alive, encompassing health and well-being. In this research, it signifies the importance of maintaining a healthy vaginal ecosystem for the quality of life, particularly in preventing reproductive health issues among women.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Lactobacillus Metabolites' Antimicrobial Effects on Candida Species’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
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