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Updated: Apr 26, 2026

Exploring the Root Microbiome: Extracting Bacterial Community Data from the Soil, Rhizosphere, and Root Endosphere
Published on: May 2, 2018
Microbial community in persistent apical periodontitis: a 16S rRNA gene clone library analysis
M N Zakaria1,2,3, T Takeshita1, Y Shibata1
1Section of Preventive and Public Health Dentistry, Division of Oral Health, Growth and Development, Faculty of Dental Science, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan.
Microbial analysis of persistent periapical lesions revealed diverse bacteria, with specific patterns in symptomatic cases. Bacterial communities, not single species, likely drive persistent inflammation in root-filled teeth.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Oral Pathology
- Molecular Genetics
Background:
- Persistent periapical lesions are common complications of root-filled teeth.
- Understanding the microbial etiology is crucial for effective treatment.
- Previous studies have suggested various bacteria, but comprehensive molecular analysis is needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the microbial composition of persistent periapical lesions using molecular genetics.
- To identify specific bacterial patterns associated with symptomatic versus asymptomatic lesions.
Main Methods:
- DNA extraction from apical lesion samples of 12 patients undergoing apicectomy.
- 16S rRNA gene clone library analysis for comprehensive microbial profiling.
- Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for specific detection of Enterococcus faecalis, Candida albicans, and Porphyromonas gingivalis fimA genotypes.
Main Results:
- Bacteria were present in all samples, dominated by P. gingivalis, Fusobacterium nucleatum, and Propionibacterium acnes.
- Symptomatic lesions exhibited greater bacterial diversity and distinct microbial communities, including Prevotella spp., Treponema spp., and specific P. gingivalis genotypes.
- Enterococcus faecalis and Candida albicans were not detected in any samples.
Conclusions:
- Persistent periapical lesions harbor diverse bacterial communities.
- Distinct microbial patterns characterize symptomatic lesions, suggesting a community-based etiology.
- Bacterial combinations, rather than individual species, may be responsible for persistent periapical inflammation.
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