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Updated: May 5, 2026
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Oral Biofilm Sampling for Microbiome Analysis in Healthy Children
Published on: December 31, 2017
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Metabarcoding analysis of oral microbiome during pregnancy
Fatiha M Benslimane1, Layla I Mohammed1,2, Haya Abu-Hijleh2
1Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology
|January 1, 2025
Summary
Pregnancy alters the oral microbiome and biochemical markers, with significant shifts observed from the second to third trimester, impacting overall health.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Biochemistry
- Obstetrics
Background:
- Pregnancy involves dynamic physiological, hormonal, immune, and metabolic changes.
- Oral health is crucial during pregnancy for maternal and fetal well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate salivary microbiome and biochemical marker changes during pregnancy.
- To correlate microbial shifts with clinical parameters in pregnant women.
Main Methods:
- Saliva samples collected from 45 pregnant women at second and third trimesters.
- 16S rRNA gene sequencing using Oxford Nanopore Technology for microbiome analysis.
- Biochemical marker analysis and correlation with microbial data.
Main Results:
- Increased BMI, HbA1c, LDL, cholesterol, and triglycerides in the third trimester.
- Significant changes in salivary microbial richness and composition, including increased Bacteroidota.
- Shifts in specific bacteria: decreased Selenomonas, increased Veillonella (V. dispar, V. atypica), increased Granulicatella, and decreased Streptococcus sanguinis.
Conclusions:
- Pregnancy is characterized by significant biochemical and salivary microbial shifts.
- Monitoring oral health and metabolic changes is vital during pregnancy.
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