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Methanogenic activity in human periodontal pocket
Michele Robichaux1, Monroe Howell, Ramaraj Boopathy
1Department of Biological Sciences, Nicholls State University, Thibodaux, LA 70310, USA.
Current Microbiology
|November 15, 2002
Summary
Methanogenic activity was detected in subgingival dental samples, with a Methanosarcina-like organism isolated from a periodontal pocket. This methanogen utilizes simple organic compounds and plays a role in interspecies hydrogen transfer.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Periodontology
Background:
- Periodontal pockets harbor diverse microbial communities.
- Methanogenic archaea are known to inhabit anaerobic environments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and characteristics of methanogenic archaea in subgingival dental tissues.
- To isolate and identify methanogens from periodontal pockets.
Main Methods:
- Enrichment cultures were used to detect methanogenic activities in subgingival samples.
- Isolation and characterization of a methanogenic archaeal strain.
Main Results:
- Methanogenic activity was detected in 9 out of 17 individuals.
- A mesophilic, Gram-positive coccoid methanogen, resembling Methanosarcina sp., was isolated.
- The isolate utilized methanol, methylamine, acetate, and H(2)-CO(2), with optimal growth at pH 6.5 and 37°C.
Conclusions:
- A novel methanogen was identified in periodontal pockets, suggesting a role in the terminal oxidation of organic compounds.
- This methanogen may contribute to interspecies hydrogen transfer within the periodontal niche.
- The findings highlight the potential involvement of methanogens in periodontal disease pathogenesis.