Emergence of penicillin resistance among Fusobacterium nucleatum populations of commensal oral flora during early childhood Original paper
Researched by:
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Divine Aleru
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Divine Aleru
Read MoreI am a biochemist with a deep curiosity for the human microbiome and how it shapes human health, and I enjoy making microbiome science more accessible through research and writing. With 2 years experience in microbiome research, I have curated microbiome studies, analyzed microbial signatures, and now focus on interventions as a Microbiome Signatures and Interventions Research Coordinator.
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Microbes
Microbes
Microbes are microscopic organisms living in and on the human body, shaping health through digestion, vitamin production, and immune protection. When microbial balance is disrupted, disease can occur. This guide explains key microbe types—bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa, and archaea—plus major pathogenic and beneficial examples.
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Divine Aleru
Read More
Researched by:
-
Divine Aleru
ID
Divine Aleru
Read More
Microbiome Signatures identifies and validates condition-specific microbiome shifts and interventions to accelerate clinical translation. Our multidisciplinary team supports clinicians, researchers, and innovators in turning microbiome science into actionable medicine.
Divine Aleru
What was studied?
This study focused on the emergence of penicillin resistance among Fusobacterium nucleatum populations in the commensal oral flora of healthy young children. The researchers specifically investigated the production of beta-lactamase, the enzyme responsible for penicillin resistance, and examined how the prevalence of beta-lactamase-producing strains increased with age and exposure to antimicrobial agents.
Who was studied?
The study examined 1492 Fusobacterium nucleatum isolates collected from the saliva of 44 healthy infants who were followed longitudinally from the age of 2 months to 24 months. The infants’ antibiotic use, day care attendance, and sibling history were considered when analyzing the data. The study aimed to evaluate the relationship between these factors and the emergence of penicillin resistance in the children’s oral flora.
What were the most important findings?
The study found a significant increase in the prevalence of penicillin-resistant Fusobacterium nucleatum strains due to beta-lactamase production, rising from 2% at 2 months of age to 49% by 24 months. Notably, beta-lactamase-producing strains were present alongside non-producing strains in nearly all cases. The majority (80%) of these resistant strains exhibited high resistance to penicillin, with MICs (minimum inhibitory concentrations) of ≥8 mg/L. The study also revealed that exposure to antimicrobial agents, particularly beta-lactams, was associated with the presence of penicillin-resistant F. nucleatum at 12 months of age, though no direct correlation was found with factors like day care attendance or the number of siblings. The study highlights that beta-lactamase production in F. nucleatum is a growing concern, with implications for pediatric infections, especially those involving the upper respiratory tract, where F. nucleatum can be a contributor.
What are the greatest implications of this study?
The findings of this study have important clinical implications, particularly for pediatric care. The increasing prevalence of penicillin-resistant Fusobacterium nucleatum due to beta-lactamase production suggests that reliance on beta-lactams may be insufficient for treating infections involving this pathogen in young children. The study emphasizes the need for careful antimicrobial stewardship, as the use of antibiotics, particularly beta-lactams, may be contributing to the rise in resistance. Additionally, the finding that multiple F. nucleatum isolates should be tested to accurately assess resistance rates underscores the importance of thorough microbial surveillance. The data also call for greater attention to the potential of F. nucleatum in respiratory infections such as otitis media, and the need to explore alternative therapies or more targeted antibiotics for managing such infections.
Fusobacterium nucleatum
Fusobacterium nucleatum is a Gram-negative, anaerobic bacterium commonly found in the oral cavity, where it plays a crucial role in the formation of biofilms. Beyond its presence in the mouth, Fn is implicated in a variety of systemic conditions, including periodontal disease, colorectal cancer, and inflammatory bowel disease. Known for its ability to coaggregate with other bacteria, Fn's pathogenic potential is magnified in dysbiotic microbial communities, making it a key player in polymicrobial infections. The bacterium utilizes multiple virulence factors such as FadA and Fap2, which facilitate adhesion to host tissues and immune evasion, ultimately contributing to its role in chronic and inflammatory diseases.