Discovery of phosphorylated lantibiotics with proimmune activity that regulate the oral microbiome.

Lantibiotics are ribosomally synthesized and posttranslationally modified peptides (RiPPs) that are produced by bacteria. Interest in this group of natural products is increasing rapidly as alternatives to conventional antibiotics. Some human microbiome-derived commensals produce lantibiotics to impair pathogens' colonization and promote healthy microbiomes. Streptococcus salivarius is one of the first commensal microbes to colonize the human oral cavity and gastrointestinal tract, and its biosynthesis of RiPPs, called salivaricins, has been shown to inhibit the growth of oral pathogens. Herein, we report on a phosphorylated class of three related RiPPs, collectively referred to as salivaricin 10, that exhibit proimmune activity and targeted antimicrobial properties against known oral pathogens and multispecies biofilms. Strikingly, the immunomodulatory activities observed include upregulation of neutrophil-mediated phagocytosis, promotion of antiinflammatory M2 macrophage polarization, and stimulation of neutrophil chemotaxis-these activities have been attributed to the phosphorylation site identified on the N-terminal region of the peptides. Salivaricin 10 peptides were determined to be produced by S. salivarius strains found in healthy human subjects, and their dual bactericidal/antibiofilm and immunoregulatory activity may provide new means to effectively target infectious pathogens while maintaining important oral microbiota.

Associations between dental caries and systemic diseases: a scoping review.

BACKGROUND: The objective of this study was to evaluate and present evidence from animal and human clinical studies on associations between dental caries and systemic diseases, and to suggest potential mechanisms that might explain such associations. METHODS: An electronic search was conducted of PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for articles published from 2010 to 2020 in the English language. From the initial search, 404 full-text studies were assessed for eligibility. After excluding studies for technical and study limitations, a total of 67 studies were included in the summary tables and additional studies were included in the review to support evidence. RESULTS: Few systemic disease and conditions were found to be clinically meaningfully associated with caries experience. Best evidence from human and animal studies described association between metabolic diseases and dental caries. Several interesting animal studies were noted that could generate clinical hypotheses and further investigations in rodent models for cardiovascular injury and hyperglycemia. Inadequate data was found to suggest any modifications to current clinical practice or prevention guidelines. CONCLUSIONS: Limited clinical evidence was found connecting several systemic diseases and dental caries. Inadequate data was found to suggest any modifications to current clinical practice or prevention guidelines. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Understanding of associations between dental caries and systemic diseases play a crucial role in the treatment planning and education of the dental patient.

Role of periodontal therapy in management of common complex systemic diseases and conditions: An update.

The goal of this review is to summarize the results of randomized trials reported since 2010 that assessed the effect of periodontal interventions on at least one systemic outcome in human subjects of any age, gender or ethnicity. Oral outcome measures included gingivitis, pocket depth, clinical attachment loss and/or radiographic bone loss and oral hygiene indices. Studies were excluded if the trial was not completed or if treatment was not randomized. The results suggest that nonsurgical periodontal intervention provided to pregnant women is safe and improves periodontal status without preventing adverse pregnancy outcomes. Nonsurgical periodontal intervention was also found to provide modest improvement in glycemic control in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus and periodontitis. Also, improving oral care through mechanical or chemical control of dental-plaque biofilm formation can contribute to the prevention of respiratory infections in differing clinical settings, including hospitals and nursing homes, and in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. No clinical trials were reported that tested the effect of periodontal interventions on medical outcomes of atherosclerosis, cardiovascular diseases, stroke, rheumatoid arthritis, Alzheimer's disease, chronic kidney disease or malignant neoplasia.

Comparative genomics and evolution of the amylase-binding proteins of oral streptococci.

BACKGROUND: Successful commensal bacteria have evolved to maintain colonization in challenging environments. The oral viridans streptococci are pioneer colonizers of dental plaque biofilm. Some of these bacteria have adapted to life in the oral cavity by binding salivary α-amylase, which hydrolyzes dietary starch, thus providing a source of nutrition. Oral streptococcal species bind α-amylase by expressing a variety of amylase-binding proteins (ABPs). Here we determine the genotypic basis of amylase binding where proteins of diverse size and function share a common phenotype. RESULTS: ABPs were detected in culture supernatants of 27 of 59 strains representing 13 oral Streptococcus species screened using the amylase-ligand binding assay. N-terminal sequences from ABPs of diverse size were obtained from 18 strains representing six oral streptococcal species. Genome sequencing and BLAST searches using N-terminal sequences, protein size, and key words identified the gene associated with each ABP. Among the sequenced ABPs, 14 matched amylase-binding protein A (AbpA), 6 matched amylase-binding protein B (AbpB), and 11 unique ABPs were identified as peptidoglycan-binding, glutamine ABC-type transporter, hypothetical, or choline-binding proteins. Alignment and phylogenetic analyses performed to ascertain evolutionary relationships revealed that ABPs cluster into at least six distinct, unrelated families (AbpA, AbpB, and four novel ABPs) with no phylogenetic evidence that one group evolved from another, and no single ancestral gene found within each group. AbpA-like sequences can be divided into five subgroups based on the N-terminal sequences. Comparative genomics focusing on the abpA gene locus provides evidence of horizontal gene transfer. CONCLUSION: The acquisition of an ABP by oral streptococci provides an interesting example of adaptive evolution.

Calcium Sulfate as Bone Replacement Graft in Management of Localized Aggressive Periodontitis: A One-year Follow-up Report.

We report a case of localized aggressive periodontitis (LAP), which occurred during fixed orthodontic treatment in a 16-year-old African-American female patient. Oral hygiene instruction, removal of orthodontic bands and nonsurgical periodontal therapy were followed by surgical treatment of multiple sites using calcium sulfate as a synthetic bone graft material and collagen membrane as a barrier to achieve guided tissue regeneration. One-year follow-up of the case demonstrated that use of calcium sulfate as a synthetic bone substitute may provide favorable outcome in LAP patients. Furthermore, LAP patients undergoing orthodontic treatment can be managed successfully without tooth morbidity.

An unusual affliction of the tongue.

A dramatic presentation of a large ulcer on the dorsal tongue of a recently hospitalized patient is presented. The lesion was found to be nosocomial in origin, and consistent with traumatic ulcerative granuloma with stromal eosinophilia (TUGSE). A review of the current pathogenic mechanisms, differential diagnosis and management of TUGSE is included.

Effects of a stabilized stannous fluoride dentifrice on clinical, immunomodulatory, and microbial outcomes in a human experimental gingivitis model.

BACKGROUND: Stannous fluoride dentifrice is well established for its beneficial clinical effects. In this study, we evaluated the effects of stannous fluoride on inflammation and oral microbiome. METHODS: In this randomized, parallel-arm, double-blind, controlled clinical trial, we compared clinical resolution of experimental gingivitis by evaluating bleeding on probing, gingival index, and plaque index between stannous fluoride stabilized with zinc phosphate (test) and sodium fluoride (control) dentifrices. Further, these groups were compared for oral neutrophil counts, systemic priming of neutrophils, gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) expression of inflammatory markers, and the oral microbiome. RESULTS: We found significant reduction in bleeding on probing in the test group compared to the control group in experimental gingivitis when participants used the test dentifrice prior to induction of experimental gingivitis. The test group also showed significant reductions in GCF levels of inflammatory markers (matrix metalloproteinase 8 [MMP8], receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-Β ligand [RANKL]), oral polymorphonuclear neutrophil (PMN) counts, and systemic neutrophil priming (CD11b expression) during experimental gingivitis. Further, significant reductions in the gram-negative genera Porphyromonas, Tannerella, and Treponema were noted in the test group. CONCLUSION: The stannous fluoride stabilized with zinc phosphate dentifrice formulation demonstrated clinical reduction in gingival inflammation and a beneficial effect on microbiome and immune markers. This intervention should be explored as a preventive aid in the progression of plaque-induced gingivitis to periodontitis.

Laugier-Hunziker Syndrome Presenting with Metachronous Melanoacanthomas.

Laugier-Hunziker syndrome (LHS, also termed idiopathic lenticular mucocutaneous hyperpigmentation) is an unusual condition characterized by progressive pigmentation of the mucous membranes. LHS displays a benign course and is not associated with malignancy. Here we present a case of LHS with a 7-year follow-up. We document metachronous oral melanoacanthomas in this individual. In addition, we found that the oral melanotic macules in this patient waxed and waned in a cyclical manner. To our knowledge, this is the first report of these findings in the context of LHS. Finally, we provide an overview of other conditions that can present with mucosal hyperpigmentation. It is critical to distinguish LHS from other conditions characterized by mucosal pigmentation in order to facilitate optimal patient care.

The microbiome and lung cancer.

It has become increasingly clear that we live in a symbiotic relationship with microbes within us. We are just beginning to unravel the nature and strength of this relationship and its impact on both physiology and by extension, pathology. While microorganisms have long been known to have carcinogenic potential, their role may have been underestimated. The knowledge of the role of the microbiome in carcinogenesis is rapidly evolving. This evolution has reached a tipping point with current omics technologies used for cataloguing the microbiome. The lung is an organ constantly exposed to the environment. It is now clear that the lung has a distinct microbiome and that this may influence the development of lung cancer. In addition, evidence suggests that this microbiome originates from the oral microbiome. This review summarizes current knowledge about the role of microbiome, especially the oral and lung microbiome in human lung cancer. The goal of the manuscript is to provide a summary of this rapidly evolving field while providing a context of the general role of the microbiome in carcinogenesis. In addition, a primer of the current technology used in evaluating the microbiome is provided to familiarize the practicing clinician with the experimental methods used to generate the information that will likely impact the field of lung cancer.

Evaluation of a stabilized stannous fluoride dentifrice on dental plaque and gingivitis in a randomized controlled trial with 6-month follow-up.

BACKGROUND: The objective of this study was to compare a stannous fluoride (SnF2) dentifrice (Colgate TotalSF) stabilized with zinc phosphate with a sodium fluoride control dentifrice for gingivitis and plaque control over a 6-month period. METHODS: One hundred adult participants were enrolled in this study conducted in Chengdu, China. After random assignment and blinding of examiners and patients, enrolled participants received instructions for use of the assigned dentifrice. At 3 visits (baseline and 3 and 6 months), the authors measured various gingival and plaque indexes to determine the clinical efficacy of the stabilized SnF2 dentifrice compared with those of the control fluoride dentifrice (2 groups). RESULTS: Ninety-eight participants completed the study. Both groups (test and control) had statistically significant reductions in gingival inflammation and improvement in plaque control at the 3- and 6-month follow-ups. In addition, the test dentifrice showed statistically significant reductions in all indexes compared with the control dentifrice (P < .001). CONCLUSIONS: This study's results show statistically significantly improved clinical outcomes for reduction of gingival inflammation and improvement in biofilm control over a 6-month period through the use of a SnF2 dentifrice stabilized with zinc phosphate when compared with results with a fluoride control dentifrice. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: This newly formulated dentifrice improves gingival health and plaque control and thereby may aid patients in attaining improved oral health.

The salivary microbiome of diabetic and non-diabetic adults with periodontal disease.

BACKGROUND: A comparison of the salivary microbiome of non-diabetic and diabetic cohorts having periodontal health, gingivitis and periodontitis could reveal microbial signatures unique to each group that will increase understanding of the role of oral microbiota in the pathogenesis of disease, and assist with diagnosis and risk assessment for both periodontal disease and diabetes. METHODS: A group of individuals diagnosed with type 2 diabetes (T2D) was compared with a group without T2D. For both the diabetic and non-diabetic cohorts, three subgroups were established: periodontal health, gingivitis, and periodontitis. Salivary DNA was extracted (n = 146), polymerase chain reaction was performed to amplify 16S rRNA hypervariable region V3-V4, and constructed libraries were sequenced and subjected to bioinformatic and statistical analyses. RESULTS: Microbiome analysis resulted in 88 different genus level operational taxonomic units (OTUs) for differential abundance testing. Results were largely described by two trends. Trend 1 showed OTUs that increased in abundance with increasing periodontal disease, and in diabetics relative to non-diabetics. Trend 1 OTUs comprised a mix of primarily anaerobic commensals and potential periodontopathogens. Trend 2 was driven primarily by genera that decreased in abundance in those with diabetes relative to those without diabetes, which included other anaerobes associated with periodontal disease. Overall, oral microbial diversity decreased in diabetics and increased with progression of periodontal disease compared with periodontally healthy controls. CONCLUSION: Although select microbiota increased in both diabetes and periodontal disease progression, these genera decreased in co-existing diabetes and periodontal disease. These findings suggest that the genera abundance continues to change with additional stress imposed by co-existing conditions.

Effect of stannous fluoride and zinc phosphate dentifrice on dental plaque and gingivitis: A randomized clinical trial with 6-month follow-up.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to compare a stabilized stannous fluoride (SnF2) dentifrice with zinc phosphate (Colgate TotalSF) with SnF2 with zinc lactate and control fluoride dentifrices for gingivitis and plaque control over a 6-month period. METHODS: A total of 135 adult participants were enrolled in this study. After randomization and blinding of examiners and patients, enrolled participants were provided instructions for use of assigned dentifrice. At 3 visits (0, 3, and 6 months), various gingival and plaque indexes were collected to determine the clinical efficacy of a stabilized SnF2 dentifrice. These results were compared with a SnF2 with zinc lactate dentifrice and with a control fluoride dentifrice. RESULTS: A total of 135 participants completed the study. All groups reported statistically significant reductions in gingival inflammation and improvement in plaque control at 3- and 6-month follow-up. Both SnF2 dentifrices showed statistically significant reductions in all indexes compared with the control dentifrice (P < .001). However, the test dentifrice showed higher but nonsignificant improvements in plaque and gingival indexes compared with the other SnF2 dentifrice. CONCLUSIONS: This study reports similar efficacy of a test dentifrice to a commercial SnF2-containing dentifrice for plaque control and reduction in gingival inflammation and provides supporting evidence that the test dentifrice maintains its clinical efficacy with change of formulation. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: This newly formulated SnF2 stabilized with zinc phosphate dentifrice may be of benefit to patients in controlling plaque biofilm and gingivitis.

Ear and Temporal Bone: Cartilaginous and Osseous Pathologies.

Although the majority of conditions involving the ear and temporal bone are inflammatory or epithelial based, cartilage and osseous entities will also be encountered. The pathologic examination of these underlying cartilaginous and osseous structures and their histologic findings and associated differential diagnoses will be discussed. Correlation with clinical and imaging findings are also critical for accurate determination of the pathologic entity.

Fibromyxoma of the Jaw: Case Report and Review of the Literature.

We report a case of fibromyxoma of the mandible, a rare benign odontogenic tumor. Our patient presented in the first trimester of pregnancy with a large mass in the right body of the mandible exhibiting displacement of teeth and destruction of an extensive area of the mandibular bone. The mass was biopsied and diagnosed as a fibromyxoma. The large size of the tumor dictated a wide mandibular resection. We will review the clinical, radiographic, and histologic features of fibromyxoma and discuss its differential diagnoses. In addition, we will provide an overview of patient management. Fibromxyoma is a benign gnathic tumor that can be locally aggressive. To ensure appropriate treatment, it is important to distinguish this neoplasm from other mimickers in which myxoid, spindle mesenchymal cell proliferation is prominent.

Draft Genome Sequences of Four Strains of Recently Established Novel Veillonella Species Isolated from Human Oral Cavities.

Veillonella species are known to contribute to the formation of early oral biofilms and tend to be prevalent in people with poor oral hygiene status. Here, we report the draft genome sequences of 4 oral Veillonella strains that were established recently as novel species.

Baking soda dentifrice and periodontal health: A review of the literature.

BACKGROUND: Mechanical disruption of dental biofilm is critical to maintain periodontal health. Baking soda-containing dentifrices have shown to be potential aids for improving gingival health and maintaining dental biofilm control. TYPES OF STUDIES REVIEWED: Evidence from classic and contemporary literature is reviewed and summarized in this review. In vitro and in vivo (animal and human, respectively) studies and clinical trials have been analyzed. CONCLUSIONS: Some clinical studies demonstrated the benefits of baking soda dentifrices in plaque and gingivitis reduction. Clinical trials with longer follow-up would be useful to confirm the impact of baking soda on gingival health. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: Regular dental biofilm control and adjunctive use of baking soda dentifrices in an otherwise healthy and compliant patient may provide success in maintenance of gingival health.

Is it Sjögren's syndrome or burning mouth syndrome? Distinct pathoses with similar oral symptoms.

Sjögren's syndrome (SS) and burning mouth syndrome (BMS) typically occur in postmenopausal women. Although these conditions have significantly different etiopathogeneses, patients with SS or BMS often present with analogous oral complaints. The similarities between the two conditions have led to considerable confusion on the part of medical and dental practitioners, and those with BMS or SS often wait years to receive a diagnosis. Therefore, it is imperative for clinicians to understand the characteristic subjective and objective features of each disease and how these can be used to distinguish them. This review will discuss the proposed etiology, clinical manifestations, histopathology, diagnostic criteria, and patient management of SS and BMS. We also identify key differences between the two pathoses that aid in establishing the correct diagnosis. Recognition of the defining features of each condition will lead to reduced time to diagnosis and improved patient management for these poorly understood conditions.

Correction: Salivary inflammatory markers and microbiome in normoglycemic lean and obese children compared to obese children with type 2 diabetes.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0172647.].

MyPro: A seamless pipeline for automated prokaryotic genome assembly and annotation.

MyPro is a software pipeline for high-quality prokaryotic genome assembly and annotation. It was validated on 18 oral streptococcal strains to produce submission-ready, annotated draft genomes. MyPro installed as a virtual machine and supported by updated databases will enable biologists to perform quality prokaryotic genome assembly and annotation with ease.