Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 18, 2025
10:24
Assessing the Viability of a Synthetic Bacterial Consortium on the In Vitro Gut Host-microbe Interface
Published on: July 4, 2018
12.0K
Subgingival microbiota in a population with and without cognitive dysfunction.
Jacob Holmer1, Velma Aho2,3, Maria Eriksdotter4,5
1Unit of Periodontology, Department of Dental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden.
Journal of Oral Microbiology
|February 4, 2021
Summary
Individuals with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and cognitive impairment show altered subgingival microbiota, characteristic of periodontal disease. This suggests a link between oral health and cognitive decline.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Neurology
- Periodontology
Background:
- Alzheimer's disease (AD) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) are associated with various systemic factors.
- The oral microbiome, particularly subgingival microbiota, plays a role in systemic health.
- Understanding the oral-brain axis is crucial for neurodegenerative disease research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the subgingival microbiota composition in individuals with AD, MCI, subjective cognitive decline (SCD), and healthy controls.
- To identify specific microbial differences associated with cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease.
Main Methods:
- Subgingival plaque samples were collected from 132 patients with AD, MCI, or SCD and 63 healthy controls.
- Microbiota characterization was performed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing.
- Statistical analyses identified differences in microbial richness, evenness, and specific taxa.
Main Results:
- Microbial richness and evenness were higher in individuals with cognitive impairment or AD compared to controls.
- Periodontal disease variables significantly influenced microbial community composition.
- Specific taxa, including Slackia exigua and a Lachnospiraceae bacterium, were more abundant in AD patients.
Conclusions:
- Individuals with cognitive impairment or AD exhibit subgingival microbiota shifts indicative of periodontal disease.
- These findings highlight a potential link between periodontal health and cognitive status.
- Further research is warranted to explore the causal relationship and therapeutic implications.
