Saliva Microbiome Diversity in Batwa Pygmies
Author Information
Author(s): Nasidze Ivan, Li Jing, Schroeder Roland, Creasey Jean L., Li Mingkun, Stoneking Mark
Primary Institution: Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology
Hypothesis
Is the low level of dental caries in the Batwa associated with particular microbial taxa?
Conclusion
The Batwa exhibit higher diversity in their saliva microbiome composition, which may be influenced by their lifestyle and diet.
Supporting Evidence
- The Batwa have 127 different microbial genera in their saliva, significantly more than the 54 and 71 found in DRC and SL groups, respectively.
- Rarefaction analysis shows that the higher diversity in the Batwa is not due to a higher number of sequence reads.
- The Batwa's diet, which is rich in animal protein, may contribute to their unique saliva microbiome.
Takeaway
The saliva of Batwa Pygmies has a lot more different types of bacteria compared to farming groups, which might help them avoid tooth decay.
Methodology
Saliva samples were collected and analyzed using next-generation sequencing of partial 16S rRNA sequences.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in sampling due to the small size of Batwa groups.
Limitations
The study may not account for all environmental factors influencing microbiome diversity.
Participant Demographics
39 Batwa Pygmies from various communities in Uganda, compared with agricultural groups from DRC and SL.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0001
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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