Downloads: 1
Analysis Study Research Paper | Biological Sciences | Volume 15 Issue 3, March 2026 | Pages: 1141 - 1147 | Iraq
Molecular Characterization of Bacterial Communities Associated with Poor Oral Health Using 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing
Abstract: This study investigated bacterial communities associated with poor oral health using 16S rRNA gene sequencing saliva and supragingival plaque samples. A total of 100 participants with clinically diagnosed dental caries, gingivitis, or periodontitis were included. Genomic DNA was extracted, and the V3-V4 regions of the 16S rRNA gene were amplified and sequenced using the Sanger method. Sequence data were analyzed using BLAST, followed by multiple sequence alignment and phylogenetic reconstruction in MEGA11. The analysis identified diverse Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including cariogenic Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus sobrinus, and Lactobacillus acidophilus, as well as anaerobic taxa such as Prevotella and Veillonella. Phylogenetic trees demonstrated clear clustering patterns and evolutionary relationships among isolates, supporting the presence of polymicrobial dysbiosis. These findings highlight the diagnostic value of molecular microbial profiling and support the use of 16S rRNA gene sequencing as a reliable tool for understanding oral disease mechanisms and improving clinical management strategies. The study highlights the polymicrobial nature of poor oral health, demonstrating the coexistence of classic oral pathogens and opportunistic taxa. 16S rRNA gene sequencing proved effective in resolving bacterial diversity and phylogeny, underscoring its utility in identifying microbial biomarkers and informing future diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for oral disease management.
Keywords: Oral microbiome dysbiosis, 16S rRNA sequencing, phylogenetic analysis, dental caries microbiota, periodontal pathogens
How to Cite?: Shams Kareem Mohmmed, Shaimaa Awadh Auda, Haider Mahmod Jasim, "Molecular Characterization of Bacterial Communities Associated with Poor Oral Health Using 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing", Volume 15 Issue 3, March 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1141-1147, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26310024416, DOI: https://dx.dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26310024416