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Published on: December 17, 2015
The phylum Synergistetes in gingivitis and necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis
Angelica Baumgartner1, Thomas Thurnheer1, Helga Lüthi-Schaller1
1Oral Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Oral Biology, Center of Dental Medicine, University of Zurich, Plattenstrasse 11, 8032 Zurich, Switzerland.
Journal of Medical Microbiology
|August 11, 2012
Summary
Necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis (NUG) is linked to higher levels of Synergistetes cluster A bacteria. This study found Synergistetes cluster A, but not cluster B or J. anthropi, is associated with NUG.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Oral Health
- Periodontology
Background:
- Necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis (NUG) presents distinct clinical features including tissue necrosis and pain.
- The novel bacterial phylum Synergistetes, comprising Gram-negative anaerobes, is found in periodontal infections.
- The role of Synergistetes in NUG has not been previously explored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and quantity of oral Synergistetes clusters in NUG patients.
- To compare Synergistetes levels in NUG with those in common gingivitis.
Main Methods:
- Quantitative analysis of dental plaque samples from 21 NUG and 21 gingivitis patients.
- Fluorescent in situ hybridization and microscopy were used.
- Detection of Synergistetes clusters A and B, and Jonquetella anthropi.
Main Results:
- Synergistetes cluster A bacteria were found in all samples, with significantly higher levels and proportions in NUG patients (9.4-fold and 2.5-fold, respectively).
- No significant differences in Synergistetes cluster B levels were observed between NUG and gingivitis groups.
- Jonquetella anthropi was detected infrequently and at low levels.
Conclusions:
- Synergistetes cluster A bacteria show a stronger association with NUG compared to gingivitis.
- Synergistetes cluster B and Jonquetella anthropi do not appear to be specifically linked to NUG in this study.
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