Vaginal Weissella confusa MV0113 suppresses pathogens and restores microbiota to alleviate bacterial vaginosis: integrated genomic and in vivo evidence

Bacterial vaginosis (BV), the most common vaginal infection in women of reproductive age, shows high recurrence after antibiotic therapy, highlighting the need for novel probiotic approaches. This study aimed to evaluate the probiotic properties of the vaginal isolate Weissella confusa MV0113 and its potential role in preventing and managing BV. MV0113 remained sensitive to clinically relevant antibiotics and produced high levels of lactic acid and hydrogen peroxide. Its cell-free supernatant inhibited Candida albicans and Gardnerella vaginalis biofilms, showing greater activity than the reference probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG). Strong adhesion of MV0113 to HeLa cells was observed, suggesting preliminary potential for mucosal colonization. Whole-genome sequencing indicated functional potential for carbohydrate metabolism and bacteriocin production. In a mouse model of BV, MV0113 treatment alleviated vaginal inflammation, modulated cytokine expression, and restored microbial balance by increasing Lactobacillus abundance and reducing pathogens. By integrating genomic, in vitro, and in vivo analyses, our findings suggest that MV0113 is a promising probiotic candidate for BV management, warranting further clinical validation.