Study Uncovers Historical Changes in Japanese Oral Microbiomes Through Ancient Dental Calculus
Ancient dental calculus reveals centuries of oral microbiome change

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Researchers from Toho University and other institutions analyzed dental calculus from skeletal remains in Japan to study the oral microbiomes of the Edo period (1603-1868) and found significant differences compared to modern samples, revealing insights into historical diets and cultural practices.
- 01The study focused on dental calculus from Edo-period individuals, revealing distinct oral microbiome compositions compared to modern samples.
- 02Methanobrevibacter oralis, associated with periodontal disease, was frequently found in Edo-period samples, indicating historical health conditions.
- 03Regional differences in microbial composition were identified, suggesting links to dietary habits and living environments across Japan.
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A recent study led by researchers from Toho University and other institutions examined the oral microbiomes of the Japanese population by analyzing DNA preserved in dental calculus from human skeletal remains. This research primarily focused on samples from the Edo period (1603-1868) and compared them with modern dental calculus. The findings revealed significant differences in microbial composition across time periods and regions, highlighting the impact of historical dietary changes and cultural practices on oral health. Notably, the periodontal disease-associated archaeon Methanobrevibacter oralis was frequently detected in Edo-period individuals, suggesting a historical prevalence of oral diseases. The study also identified regional variations, with differences between samples from the Honshu–Kyushu region and Okinawa, indicating that local diets and environments influenced the oral microbiome. Furthermore, the analysis of M. oralis showed a connection to the traditional practice of ohaguro, or tooth blackening, prevalent during the Edo period. This research underscores the potential of dental calculus as a valuable source for understanding past human health, diet, and the relationship between humans and microorganisms. Future studies may further illuminate the lifeways of historical populations in Japan.
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The findings provide insights into the historical health and dietary practices of the Japanese population, which may inform current understanding of oral health.
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