The sampling strategy of oral microbiome

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Oral Health
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• The oral cavity hosts a complex micro-ecosystem comprising bacteria, fungi, viruses, and protozoa.
• Key habitats include saliva, dental plaque (supragingival, subgingival, submucosal), root canals, and mucosal surfaces.
• Technological advancements have increased interest in understanding the oral microbiome.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a reliable, feasible, and practical sampling strategy for oral microorganisms.
• To provide a comprehensive overview of sample collection, transport, processing, and storage methods.
• To facilitate accurate investigation of the oral microbiome.

Main Methods:

• Detailed description of sample collection techniques for various oral habitats.
• Guidelines for appropriate transport media and conditions to preserve microbial viability.
• Standardized protocols for processing and storage of oral samples.
• Utilized commonly available clinical and laboratory materials and devices.

Main Results:

• The presented sampling strategy is comprehensive, covering all essential steps from collection to storage.
• The methods described are practical for routine clinical and laboratory use.
• The feasibility and reliability of the proposed sampling strategy have been validated by multiple studies.

Conclusions:

• A standardized and validated sampling strategy is crucial for reliable oral microbiome research.
• The introduced methods ensure the integrity of oral specimens for downstream analysis.
• This strategy supports advancements in understanding oral health and disease through microbiome investigation.