Microbiological and Randomly Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) Marker Protocol for Silicone Condom Lubricant Isolates

Abstract

Condoms serve as a method of birth control. During sexual activity, silicon condom lubricant lowers friction and the chances of harm. Additionally, it increases the protection against STIs, including HIV, by decreasing the likelihood that they may break or fall off. The aim of this study was to perform microbiological and molecular assessments of silicon condom lubricant using a 16S rRNA molecular sequencing protocol. Silicone condom lubricants were randomly selected and analyzed using standard microbiological methods. The molecular identification of the isolated bacteria was performed using the 16S rRNA sequencing protocol. The fungal isolate compendium was characterized using lactophenol cotton blue staining. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing of the isolated organisms was performed using the modified method described by Kirby-Bauer agar disc diffusion. The growth dynamics and killing time were determined using an ultraviolet spectrophotometer with the addition of ciprofloxacin for bacteria and fluconazole for fungi at 24-hour intervals. The bacterial and fungal counts of the selected condom ranged between 1.6 and 9.0 × 10-4 cfu/ml and between 1.9 and 7.0 × 107 cfu/ml, respectively. The bacteria isolated were both gram-positive and gram-negative, while the fungal species were Aspergillus niger, Byssoctilamiis nivea, Emericella nidulans, Fusarium poae, Eurotium herbariorium, Aspergillus parasiticus and Fusarium oxysporum. All the organisms showed varied resistance and susceptibility. The findings from this study revealed the presence of pathogenic microorganisms in the selected silicone condom lubricant brands sold in Akungba-Akoko. Further studies should be performed to ensure the safety of the silicon condom brands used.