Antibiotic resistance genes in the subgingival microbiome and implications for periodontitis therapy.

UNLABELLED: Antibiotic resistance genes are widespread in periodontal pockets and are likely to affect negatively the success of antibiotic therapy.

BACKGROUND: Antibiotic resistance is emerging as a global public threat. However, it remains poorly investigated in the context of periodontal therapy. The aim of the study was to investigate the complete diversity of antibiotic resistance genes in a German population.

METHODS: Thirty-nine volunteers with periodontitis contributed to the present study with one to four periodontal pockets for a total of 124 subgingival samples. Samples were analysed using shotgun metagenomics.

RESULTS: A total of 19 antibiotic resistance genes from six antibiotic classes were detected in subgingival biofilm. Two-thirds of the volunteers (n = 26/39) showed antibiotic resistance genes for at least one of the antibiotic classes used for periodontal treatment in dental practice or research: beta-lactam, lincosamide, macrolide, nitroimidazole and tetracycline. Macrolide was the most abundant class detected (21/39 patients).

CONCLUSION(S): Findings from our study suggest a high prevalence of antibiotic resistance genes in periodontal pockets from German volunteers. We recommend the development and broader use of molecular diagnostic tests for antibiotic resistance in dental practice to ensure treatment success and minimise antibiotic resistance. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.