Work

Live and let die: Hydrogen peroxide production by the commensal flora and its role in maintaining a symbiotic microbiome

Year: 2018

Type: article

Abstract: Summary The majority of commensal oral streptococci are able to generate hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) during aerobic growth, which can diffuse through the cell membrane and inhibit competing species in close proximity. Competing H2O2 production is mainly dependent upon the pyruvate oxidase SpxB, and to a lesser extent the lactate oxidase LctO, both of which are important for energy generation in aerobic environments. Several studies point to a broad impact of H2O2 production in the oral environment, including a potential role in biofilm homeostasis, signaling, and interspecies interactions. Here, we summarize the current research regarding oral streptococcal H2O2 generation, resistance mechanisms, and the ecological impact of H2O2 production. We also discuss the potential therapeutic utility of H2O2 for the prevention/treatment of dysbiotic diseases as well as its potential role as a biomarker of oral health.

Source: Molecular Oral Microbiology

DOI: 10.1111/omi.12231

Authors: Sylvio Redanz, Xingqun Cheng, Rodrigo A. Giacaman, Carmen S. Pfeifer, Justin Merritt, Jens Kreth

Institutions: Oregon Health & Science University, Sichuan University, State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, University of Talca

Language: English

Topic: Oral microbiology and periodontitis research

Subfield: Periodontics

Field: Dentistry

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funders: National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research