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Human Milk Oligosaccharides Mediate the Host-Microbe Interface in a Model Vaginal Community
Julie A Talbert1, Sabrina K Spicer1, Shannon D Manning2
1Department of Chemistry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37240, United States.
ACS Infectious Diseases
|June 3, 2025
Summary
Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) and Lactobacillus promote a healthy vaginal microbiome, reducing Group B Streptococcus (GBS) infection risks during pregnancy. This pre- and probiotic approach offers a novel therapeutic strategy to prevent adverse pregnancy and neonatal outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Obstetrics
- Immunology
Background:
- Group B Streptococcus (GBS) causes severe gestational infections with limited treatment options.
- Current GBS treatments do not prevent chorioamnionitis, preterm birth, or late-onset disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the therapeutic potential of human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) and Lactobacillus for managing GBS infections.
- To evaluate the impact of HMOs on the vaginal microbiome composition and GBS-Lactobacillus interactions.
Main Methods:
- In vitro coculture models of GBS and Lactobacillus spp. with HMOs.
- Ex vivo analysis of Lactobacillus adherence to vaginal tissues.
- In vivo mouse model of GBS reproductive tract infection.
Main Results:
- HMOs shifted in vitro cultures to favor Lactobacillus spp., visualized by scanning electron microscopy.
- HMOs enhanced Lactobacillus adherence to vaginal tissues during GBS coinoculation.
- Combined Lactobacillus crispatus and HMOs prevented ascending GBS infection in a mouse model, reducing bacterial burden in placenta and fetus.
Conclusions:
- HMOs and Lactobacillus positively modulate the vaginal microbiome, inhibiting GBS.
- Prebiotic (HMO) and probiotic (Lactobacillus) interventions show promise for reducing GBS colonization during gestation.
- This approach may offer a novel strategy to prevent GBS-related adverse pregnancy and neonatal outcomes.
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