‘From women for women’: A citizen science approach engaging women in the isolation and application of the vaginal health-associated bacterium Lactobacillus crispatus v1

A vaginal microbiome rich in Lactobacillus crispatus is associated with good reproductive and sexual health outcomes. Dysbiosis, indicated by a loss of Lactobacillus crispatus, is a risk factor for urogenital infections such as the clinical diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis (BV) or urinary tract infections. While many scientists explore probiotics using a conventional pharmaceutical approach, concerns about the accessibility and affordability prompt an investigation into a preventive approach using this naturally occurring bacterium. Our study is aimed at the exploration of a potential woman-friendly vaginal probiotic product by use of the naturally occurring bacterium Lactobacillus crispatus. Citizen scientists actively participated in a two-day practicum, successfully performing procedures with self-collected vaginal swabs. The practicum received a positive response from participants, who demonstrated notable engagement and enthusiasm. With expert guidance, participants without a laboratory background were able to successfully execute the assigned tasks. From the Dutch crispatus Citizen Science Collective of 48 women, 22 succeeded to isolate their own Lactobacillus crispatus strains, using a Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) protocol for identification. In addition, 48 metagenomes and 54 whole genomes from 22 individuals were sequenced for comparative analysis by an external company. This project effectively engaged a community of women into isolation of Lactobacillus crispatus strains from their vaginal microbiota followed by in vitro characterization experiments and a hackathon for the development of a probiotic product. Our citizen science approach opens up collaboration possibilities and new avenues for exploration in vaginal health, facilitating community involvement and the development of targeted intervention to enhance women’s well-being.