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Fungi and bacteria occupy distinct spatial niches within carious dentin
Rosalyn M Sulyanto1,2, Clifford J Beall3, Kasey Ha1,2
1Department of Dentistry, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America.
Plos Pathogens
|May 28, 2024
Summary
Fungi and bacteria occupy separate spaces within carious dentin, rarely co-colonizing. This distinct spatial arrangement of oral microbes in dentin may influence dental caries progression.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Oral Biology
- Dental Research
Background:
- Dental caries etiology is primarily attributed to bacteria, but fungal roles are increasingly recognized.
- Advanced carious dentin microbial invasion requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate fungal and bacterial community composition and spatial distribution in carious dentin.
- To explore the spatial relationship between fungi and bacteria within dentinal tubules.
Main Methods:
- 16S rRNA gene sequencing and quantitative PCR for microbial profiling.
- Histological staining (Grocott's silver, PAS, CW) and immunohistochemistry (IHC).
- Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) for visualizing microbial biofilms.
Main Results:
- Fungal to bacterial ratios increased in dentin-involved lesions, with Candida species often predominant.
- Histology and IHC confirmed fungal presence within carious dentinal tubules.
- Fungi and bacteria occupied distinct spatial niches within dentinal tubules, with rare co-colonization.
Conclusions:
- A novel phenomenon of fungi and bacteria occupying separate spatial niches within carious dentin is demonstrated.
- The distinct spatial organization of oral microbes may play a significant role in dental caries progression.
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