Background
Advancements in DNA sequencing technology have facilitated the assessment of the connection between the oral microbiome and various diseases. The
Conclusions
This study confirmed the predominance of periodontopathic bacteria in the salivary microbiome in the OSCC group. If a direct correlation between oral dysbiosis and OSCC onset was proven, it could lead to new prevention strategies and early diagnostic tools.
Methods
Unstimulated saliva samples of 31 patients were collected (24 OSCC patients and 7 controls). DNA was extracted using the QIAamp DNA Blood Kit and metagenomic long sequencing reads were performed using the MinION device.
Results
In the OSCC group, 13 were males and 11 were females, with a mean age of 65.5 ± 13.9 years; in the control group, 5 were males and 2 were females, with a mean age of 51.4 ± 19.2 years. The border of the tongue was the most affected OSCC site. The microorganisms predominantly detected in OSCC patients were Prevotella, Chlamydia, Tissierellia, Calothrix, Leotiomycetes, Firmicutes and Zetaproteobacteria. Conclusions: This study confirmed the predominance of periodontopathic bacteria in the salivary microbiome in the OSCC group. If a direct correlation between oral dysbiosis and OSCC onset was proven, it could lead to new prevention strategies and early diagnostic tools.