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Published on: April 13, 2021
Lactobacillus spp. associated with early childhood caries
P Svec1, I Sedlácek, L Zácková
1Institute of Experimental Biology, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic. pavel@sci.muni.cz
Folia Microbiologica
|March 31, 2009
Summary
Researchers identified Lactobacillus species in early childhood caries (ECC) using molecular methods. Rep-PCR fingerprinting proved faster and more reliable than traditional biotyping for identifying these oral bacteria.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Dental Science
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Early childhood caries (ECC) is a significant oral health issue in children.
- Lactobacillus species are commonly found in the oral cavity and implicated in caries development.
- Accurate identification of Lactobacillus species is crucial for understanding their role in ECC.
Purpose of the Study:
- To isolate and identify Lactobacillus species from caries lesions and root canals of children with ECC.
- To compare the efficacy of repetitive sequence-based PCR ((GTG)(5)-PCR) fingerprinting with traditional biochemical methods for Lactobacillus identification.
Main Methods:
- Isolation of 69 Lactobacillus strains from oral samples of ECC-affected children.
- Biochemical and physiological characterization using API 50 CH kit and conventional tube tests.
- Genotypic grouping and identification using (GTG)(5)-PCR fingerprinting.
Main Results:
- Identified 20 Lactobacillus fermentum, 17 L. rhamnosus, 14 L. casei/paracasei, 7 L. gasseri, 7 L. salivarius, and 4 L. plantarum strains.
- (GTG)(5)-PCR fingerprinting showed high agreement with phenotypic identification and clarified taxonomy for 13 strains.
- (GTG)(5)-PCR was found to be quicker, easier, and more reliable than biotyping, especially for L. gasseri.
Conclusions:
- Repetitive sequence-based PCR ((GTG)(5)-PCR) is a superior method for rapid and reliable identification of Lactobacillus species in dental plaque.
- This molecular technique aids in the screening and accurate taxonomic classification of oral Lactobacillus isolates.
- Understanding the Lactobacillus species composition in ECC is vital for developing targeted preventive and therapeutic strategies.
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