Polymicrobial interactions in a biofilm of periodontopathic bacteria

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Chronic periodontitis is a bacterial-associated inflammatory disease of the supporting tissues of the teeth, which results in the destruction of tooth support and ultimately leads to tooth loss. The disease is a major public health problem with a large economic burden and has been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and pre-term birth and low birth weight. Three bacterial species in a biofilm (dental plaque) have been closely associated with chronic periodontitis in humans and a fourth bacterial species has been suggested to assist colonisation of the biofilm by the three pathogenic species. The aim of this project is to use DNA microarray and proteomic techniques to study the interaction of the four bacterial species grown together in a polymicrobial biofilm. In particular genes of two of the pathogens, Porphyromonas gingivalis and Treponema denticola, important for biofilm formation and virulence in an animal model will be identified. This information will provide insight into the molecular processes of dental plaque formation and therfore molecular targets for the development of specific inhibitors that may have utility in the treatment and prevention of chronic periodontitis.