The scientific basis for probiotic strains of Lactobacillus

Authors

Roger L. Cook, Wayne State University
Gregor Reid, Wayne State University
Donald G. Pond, Wayne State University
Cheryl A. Schmitt, Wayne State University
Jack D. Sobel, Wayne State University

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

1-1-1989

Journal

Journal of Infectious Diseases

Volume

160

Issue

3

First Page

490

Last Page

496

URL with Digital Object Identifier

10.1093/infdis/160.3.490

Abstract

Clue cells are epithelial cells covered by adherent gram-negative rods, observed in vaginal smears from women with bacterial vaginosis. Immunofluorescence studies were used to identify the gram-negative bacteria adhering to clue cells. Specific antisera to four common gram-negative vaginal bacteria (Gardnerella, Bacteroides, Fusobacterium, and Mobiluncus) were prepared by long-term, multiple, small-inoculum immunization of rabbits. Cross-reactivity with heterologous common vaginal bacteria was removed byabsorption against whole cellsof heterologous bacteria and by serial dilution. Gardnerella vaginalis was most often observed adhering to the surface of clue cells and was detected on the surface of exfoliated vaginal epithelial cells significantly more frequently and in higher numbers than wereMobiluncus, Bacteroides, and Fusobacterium, suggesting that this species of gram-negative bacteria is responsible for clue cell formation. © 1989 by The University of Chicago.