Lactobacillus crispatus M247: a possible tool to counteract CST IV

Abstract

Bacterial CST (community state type) I is characterized by Lactobacillus crispatus dominance and is associated with a healthy vagina and a reduced risk of vaginosis, vaginitis, preterm birth, infertility and vaginal atrophy. On the other hand, CST IV is characterized by the absence of lactobacillus and is associated with unhealthy gynaecological conditions. Unfortunately, very few L. crispatus strains have been properly studied and documented for human use. Here we discuss the genetic, probiotic and vaginal colonization properties of strain M247, isolated in 1989 from infant faeces, and describe its possible gynaecological uses especially in woman characterized by CST IV.