Pediococcus pentosaceus SB83 as a potential probiotic incorporated in a liquid system for vaginal delivery

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Probiotics
• Vaginal Health

Background:

• Pediococcus pentosaceus SB83 is a bacteriocinogenic lactic acid bacterium with potential as a vaginal probiotic.
• Formulating probiotics for vaginal delivery requires understanding their behavior in relevant environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the survival and bacteriocinogenic activity of Pediococcus pentosaceus SB83 in a liquid glycerol system simulating vaginal conditions.
• To assess the impact of storage temperature and pH on the probiotic's viability and antimicrobial efficacy.

Main Methods:

• P. pentosaceus SB83 was incorporated into a glycerol-based liquid system.
• Survival was tested in simulated vaginal fluid across different pH levels (4.2, 5.5, 6.5).
• Storage stability was evaluated at 4°C and room temperature over 13 weeks, with antimicrobial activity against Listeria monocytogenes monitored.

Main Results:

• P. pentosaceus SB83 survived in simulated vaginal fluid at pH 4.2, 5.5, and 6.5.
• Storage at 4°C prolonged viability compared to room temperature, but cells were lost after 13 weeks.
• Bacteriocinogenic activity was observed, though antimicrobial efficacy against L. monocytogenes decreased during storage.

Conclusions:

• P. pentosaceus SB83 demonstrates resilience in simulated vaginal conditions but faces stability challenges during prolonged storage.
• Further formulation optimization is required to develop an effective and stable P. pentosaceus SB83 vaginal probiotic gel.