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Event Type
Research Presentation
Academic Department
Biology, Environmental Studies
Start Date
5-4-2021 12:00 AM
Description
The oral microbiome is a complex community of microorganisms that can both reflect and greatly influence the health of the human host. A number of diseases are associated with dysbiotic oral microflora in infants and children, including dental gastrointestinal diseases, such as gingivitis, periodontal disease, and pediatric IBD. The oral microbiome is acquired primarily through exposure to various microorganisms present within the environment during parturition and after birth. A variety of factors can influence the composition of the oral microbial community in infants, including gestation length, mode of delivery, feeding method, and diet. This study focuses on the effects of diet on the growth of a commensal species (Streptococcus mitis) and a pathogenic species (Streptococcus mutans) that are both commonly found in the oral cavity of infants. A culture-dependent model will be utilized to test the effects of two commercially available powdered infant formulae on the growth of the species: one supplemented with a probiotic (Lactobacillus rhamnosus) and a second without probiotic supplementation. Snyder’s Media will be used to assess the cariogenic potential of each species. The growth of the commensals and opportunistic pathogen will be assessed by enumerating colony forming units (CFUs) and measuring pH over time. Based on the existing literature, it is expected that the probiotic-supplemented formula may aid in producing more favorable conditions for the commensal. The results of this study may assist mothers in selecting alternatives to breastfeeding that will support the proper development of the infant oral microbiome by favoring the growth of commensal bacteria.
The influence of infant formulas on the growth of commensal and pathogenic Streptococcus species in the infant oral cavity
The oral microbiome is a complex community of microorganisms that can both reflect and greatly influence the health of the human host. A number of diseases are associated with dysbiotic oral microflora in infants and children, including dental gastrointestinal diseases, such as gingivitis, periodontal disease, and pediatric IBD. The oral microbiome is acquired primarily through exposure to various microorganisms present within the environment during parturition and after birth. A variety of factors can influence the composition of the oral microbial community in infants, including gestation length, mode of delivery, feeding method, and diet. This study focuses on the effects of diet on the growth of a commensal species (Streptococcus mitis) and a pathogenic species (Streptococcus mutans) that are both commonly found in the oral cavity of infants. A culture-dependent model will be utilized to test the effects of two commercially available powdered infant formulae on the growth of the species: one supplemented with a probiotic (Lactobacillus rhamnosus) and a second without probiotic supplementation. Snyder’s Media will be used to assess the cariogenic potential of each species. The growth of the commensals and opportunistic pathogen will be assessed by enumerating colony forming units (CFUs) and measuring pH over time. Based on the existing literature, it is expected that the probiotic-supplemented formula may aid in producing more favorable conditions for the commensal. The results of this study may assist mothers in selecting alternatives to breastfeeding that will support the proper development of the infant oral microbiome by favoring the growth of commensal bacteria.
Comments
Under the direction of Dr. Mary Jane Carmichael.