Evolving oral microbiome uncovered in ancient dental samples

Researchers have explored the oral microbiomes present in historical samples of dental calculus from Japan.

In a study published in Scientific Reports, the researchers analyzed the compositional, functional and phylogenetic characteristics of dental calculus oral microbiomes from individuals who resided in Japan between the 17th and 19th centuries during the Edo period.

The researchers identified oral microbial differences between Edo period dental calculus and modern samples as well as those sampled from about 3,000 years ago. They also discovered variation in the oral microbiomes tied to regional and cultural influences and clade-level diversity in Methanobrevibacter oralis, an archaeon linked to periodontitis. For instance, M. oralis was more prevalent among Edo period women compared with men as a result of the practice of tooth blackening — known as ohaguro — that was only observed among married women.

The findings demonstrated how cultural and demographic factors may play a role in shaping the oral microbiome. Further studies are needed to better understand the pressures impacting oral microbial evolution.

Read more: Scientific Reports

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