The composition of beneficial bacteria and other microorganisms within the mouth can be shaped by lifestyle choices, according to a recent study led by Penn State biologists. The research team, in collaboration with international partners, discovered how the oral microbiome varies across different subsistence strategies—from nomadic hunter gatherers to farmers to industrialized groups. Lifestyle factors, such as smoking, were found to significantly influence the microbiome. The findings of this study were published on November 4 in the journal Microbiome.
A healthy oral microbiome is crucial for aiding in the digestion of food, supporting the immune system, and protecting against pathogens. On the other hand, an unhealthy oral microbiome has been linked to various diseases in humans. Emily Davenport, assistant professor of biology at Penn State, explained that while previous studies have mainly focused on Western populations, this research aimed to explore how the oral microbiome varies globally based on lifestyle factors.
The study involved 63 Nepali individuals representing diverse dietary practices. The researchers analyzed how major lifestyle factors, including subsistence strategy and specific behaviors like smoking, contribute to differences in the oral microbiomes across populations. Erica Ryu, a graduate student in biology at Penn State and the first author of the paper, highlighted the significance of studying the oral microbiome across a range of lifestyles within the same country to gain a comprehensive understanding.
The research team examined the oral microbiomes of individuals from different groups, such as foragers, subsistence farmers, agriculturalists, and industrialists. By sequencing the DNA of microbes in saliva samples, they identified specific species of bacteria present in each individual’s oral microbiome. The results indicated that the composition of microbial species varied based on subsistence strategies, with certain species more prevalent in foragers and others in industrialists.
Furthermore, the study revealed that specific lifestyle factors, such as smoking and dietary habits, were associated with the presence of certain microbial species in the oral microbiome. For example, the type of grains consumed in an individual’s diet and the ingestion of a plant called nettle were linked to variations in the oral microbiome composition. The researchers emphasized the importance of considering lifestyle factors in future microbiome studies and expanding the research to include diverse populations worldwide.
Davenport emphasized the need to investigate how lifestyle changes impact the oral microbiome and ultimately human health. She highlighted the role of lifestyle factors in shaping the microbiome and the importance of understanding these dynamics across different populations. By continuing to explore the variations in oral microbiomes globally, researchers can enhance their understanding of the factors influencing microbiome composition and its implications for human health.
In conclusion, the study sheds light on the intricate relationship between lifestyle choices and the oral microbiome. By unraveling how lifestyle factors influence microbial diversity in the mouth, researchers can pave the way for personalized approaches to oral health care. The findings underscore the significance of considering lifestyle factors in microbiome research and highlight the need for further investigations to advance our understanding of this complex ecosystem.
