Lactobacillus crispatus S-layer proteins modulate innate immune response and inflammation in the lower female reproductive tract.

Lactobacillus species dominance of the vaginal microbiome is a hallmark of vaginal health. Pathogen displacement of vaginal lactobacilli drives innate immune activation and mucosal barrier disruption, increasing the risks of STI acquisition and, in pregnancy, of preterm birth. We describe differential TLR mediated activation of the proinflammatory transcription factor NF-κB by vaginal pathogens and commensals.

Preterm-birth-prevention with Lactobacillus crispatus oral probiotics: Protocol for a double blinded randomised placebo-controlled trial (the PrePOP study).

Introduction: Effective spontaneous preterm birth (sPTB) prevention is an urgent unmet clinical need. Vaginal depletion of Lactobacillus crispatus is linked to sPTB. This trial will investigate impact of an oral Lactobacillus spp.