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Nasal microbiota evolution within the congregate setting imposed by military training.
Faith C Blum1, Jeannette M Whitmire1, Jason W Bennett2
1Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, 4301 Jones Bridge Road, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA.
Scientific Reports
|July 7, 2022
Summary
Longitudinal studies reveal that nasal microbiome stability in military trainees varies significantly. Staphylococcus aureus colonization and geographic origin appear to be key factors influencing these temporal changes.
Area of Science:
- Microbiome research
- Human microbial ecology
- Infectious disease dynamics
Background:
- The human microbiome is a dynamic community, yet cross-sectional studies miss temporal changes.
- Longitudinal studies are crucial for understanding factors influencing microbiome composition and infection risk.
- Staphylococcus aureus colonization increases the risk of skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs).
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the temporal evolution of the nasal microbiota in U.S. Army Infantry trainees.
- To identify factors influencing nasal microbiota stability and composition changes during military training.
- To explore the relationship between S. aureus colonization and nasal microbiota dynamics.
Main Methods:
- Longitudinal sampling of U.S. Army Infantry trainees over 90 days.
- Determination of S. aureus colonization status.
- Nasal microbiota profiling using 16S rRNA gene sequencing.
Main Results:
- Significant individual variability in nasal microbiota stability was observed.
- S. aureus colonization status and trainee geographic origin were identified as major drivers of microbiota stability.
- Nasal microbiota evolution is a complex process influenced by multiple factors in a congregate setting.
Conclusions:
- Nasal microbiota composition is dynamic and influenced by host-associated and environmental factors.
- S. aureus colonization status significantly impacts nasal microbiota stability in trainees.
- Preventing S. aureus colonization and SSTIs may require personalized approaches for military trainees.
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