Effects of long-term metal exposure on the structure and co-occurrence patterns of the oral microbiota of residents around a mining area.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

The aim of our study was to investigate the impact of long-term exposure to heavy metals on the microbiome of the buccal mucosa, to unveil the link between environmental contamination and the oral microbial ecosystem, and to comprehend its potential health implications.

Methods

Subjects were divided into two groups: the exposure group and the control group. We collected samples of buccal mucosa, soil, and blood, and conducted microbial diversity analysis on both groups of oral samples using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The concentrations of heavy metals in blood and soil samples were also determined. Additionally, microbial networks were constructed for the purpose of topological analysis.

Results

Due to long-term exposure to heavy metals, the relative abundan

SUBMITTER: Pei S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10620801 | biostudies-literature | 2023

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature