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Adhesion of Lactobacillus iners AB-1 to Human Fibronectin: A Key Mediator for Persistence in the Vagina?

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Abstract

Lactobacillus iners is prominent in the human vagina and is able to persist despite development of bacterial vaginosis and treatment with antibiotics. A probable factor in its persistent survival is its ability to be retained in the vaginal epithelia. Genome sequencing of the strain showed an organism deplete of many metabolic pathways, yet equipped with fibronectin (Fn)-binding adhesins. The objective of the present study was to assess the ability of L iners AB-1 to bind immobilized Fn. Results showed that the organism superiorly bound the protein compared to other species of Lactobacillus and known binders such as Staphylococcus aureus. Treatment of L iners cells by protease rendered its binding abilities to Fn nonfunctional. The findings indicate a mechanism of vaginal persistence for a Lactobacillus species, with implications for reproductive health.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Canadian Research and Development Centre for Probiotics, Lawson Health Research Institute, St Joseph’s Health Care, 268 Grosvenor Street, Rm F2-116, London, ON, Canada, N6A 4V2

    Amy McMillan BSc, Jean M. Macklaim BSc & Gregor Reid PhD, MBA

  2. Departments of Microbiology and Immunology and Surgery, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada

    Amy McMillan BSc, Jeremy P. Burton PhD & Gregor Reid PhD, MBA

  3. Department of Biochemistry, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada

    Jean M. Macklaim BSc

Authors
  1. Amy McMillan BSc
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  2. Jean M. Macklaim BSc
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  3. Jeremy P. Burton PhD
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  4. Gregor Reid PhD, MBA
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Correspondence to Gregor Reid PhD, MBA.

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McMillan, A., Macklaim, J.M., Burton, J.P. et al. Adhesion of Lactobacillus iners AB-1 to Human Fibronectin: A Key Mediator for Persistence in the Vagina?. Reprod. Sci. 20, 791–796 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1177/1933719112466306

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