Investigation of Oligosaccharides for Prebitoic Action on Vaginal Lactobacilli

Objective: Vaginitis is a very common gynaecological problem in women of all age groups resulted in millions of visit to physician. Decrease in vaginal Lactobacilli is one of the reasons of Bacterial vaginitis. Approach that could improve decreased level of Lactobacilli and inhibit growth of pathogenic bacteria can be alternative to antibiotic therapy. Oligosaccharides influence the growth of Lactobacilli species and benefits vaginal ecosystem. The present study was designed to evaluate prebitoic potential of oligosaccharides in vaginitis. Methodology: The potential of oligosaccharides to stimulate the growth of three selected vaginal Lactobacilli strains was studied by optical density, pH, titrable acidity and dry mass after 48 h of incubation. The antimicrobial effect of vaginal Lactobacilli in presence of oligosaccharide against pathogenic bacteria E. coli and C. albicans was studied by agar diffusion method. Vaginal irritation test was studied on female Swiss albino mice. Results and Discussion: Increased lactic acid production and lowering of pH by Lactobacilli strains in presence of oligosaccharides confirmed that oligosaccharide can stimulate the growth of selected Lactobacilli species. Optical density and dry biomass was also increased during 48 h of incubation. Higher zone of inhibition was observed in presence of prebiotic compared to control (without prebiotic). Vaginal irritation study showed no significant changes. Conclusively, oligosaccharides supported the growth of selected strains and could restore bacterial environment.