A Bacillus sp. RE was resistant to chromium and reduced Cr(VI) without accumulating chromium inside the cell. When Cr(VI) was 10 and 40 microg ml(-1), >95% of the total Cr(VI) was reduced in 24 and 72 h of growth, respectively, whereas at 80 microg Cr(VI) ml(-1 )only 50% of Cr(VI) was reduced. However growth was not affected; the cell mass was 0.7-0.8 mg ml(-1) in all cases. The cell-free extract showed Cr(VI) reducing enzyme activity which was enhanced (>5 fold) by NADH and NADPH. Like whole cells the enzyme also reduced Cr(VI) with decreasing efficiency on increasing Cr(VI) concentration. The enzyme activity was optimal at pH 6.0 and 30 degrees C. The enzyme was stable up to 30 degrees C and from pH 5.5 to 8, but from pH 4 to 5 the enzyme was severely destabilized. Its Km and Vmax were 14 microM: and 3.8 nmol min(-1) mg(-1) respectively. The enzyme activity was enhanced by Cu2+ and Ni2+ and inhibited by Hg2+.

Objective: Vaginitis is a very common gynaecological problem in women of all age groups resulted in millions of visit to physician. Decrease in vaginal Lactobacilli is one of the reasons of Bacterial vaginitis. Approach that could improve decreased level of Lactobacilli and inhibit growth of pathogenic bacteria can be alternative to antibiotic therapy. Oligosaccharides influence the growth of Lactobacilli species and benefits vaginal ecosystem. The present study was designed to evaluate prebitoic potential of oligosaccharides in vaginitis. Methodology: The potential of oligosaccharides to stimulate the growth of three selected vaginal Lactobacilli strains was studied by optical density, pH, titrable acidity and dry mass after 48 h of incubation. The antimicrobial effect of vaginal Lactobacilli in presence of oligosaccharide against pathogenic bacteria E. coli and C. albicans was studied by agar diffusion method. Vaginal irritation test was studied on female Swiss albino mice. Results and Discussion: Increased lactic acid production and lowering of pH by Lactobacilli strains in presence of oligosaccharides confirmed that oligosaccharide can stimulate the growth of selected Lactobacilli species. Optical density and dry biomass was also increased during 48 h of incubation. Higher zone of inhibition was observed in presence of prebiotic compared to control (without prebiotic). Vaginal irritation study showed no significant changes. Conclusively, oligosaccharides supported the growth of selected strains and could restore bacterial environment.