The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research has begun supporting an innovative, 3-year study to compile the first full catalogue of genes found in oral biofilms, the sticky bacteria-laden films that form on teeth and gums. The study, which will yield many tens of thousands of genes—exceeding the number identified in the landmark Human Genome Project—will also attempt to detect unique patterns of gene expression within these bacterial communities that are predictive of periodontal diseases. Once found, these patterns could lead to far earlier, more precise, and more effective diagnosis and treatment of these diseases. All of the biological information will be stored in a searchable online database that is accessible free of charge to researchers worldwide. There will also be an ambitious attempt to sort through the genes with sophisticated computer software and reassemble the genomes, or complete sets of genes, for all of the organisms in the oral biofilms. If successful, large fragments or even full genomes of microbes that scientists preciously could not grow or study in the laboratory would now be available for research. To date, researchers have identified more than 400 bacteria in the oral biofilm, but they estimate this number may represent just over half of the microbes there.
(Source: National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, December 7, 2004)
