Detection of bacterial virulence genes associated with infective endocarditis in infected root canals

Aim The aim of this study was to examine whether bacteria associated with r oot canals possess genes that might predispose to bacterial colonization of the endocardium. Methodology Oligonucleotides were designed from DNA sequences encoding the functional binding regions of streptococcal fibronectin-binding protein (Fn BP) and staphylococcal fibrinogen-binding protein (FgBP). The specificity a nd cross-reactivity of the oligonucleotide primers were investigated: strep tococcal primers were tested for recognition of FnBP genes in other strains of streptococci. and the staphylococcal primers for detection of FgBP from other staphylococci, Interspecies specificity of these primers was also in vestigated. In a pilot clinical study, the pulp chambers of 16 nonvital tee th without sinus tracts, were opened aseptically. Root canal samples were c ollected, along with samples from the gingival sulcus and anterior nares. F rom these samples DNA was extracted, subjected to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and analysed by agarose gel electrophoresis. Results Using the streptococcal FnBP primers, PCR bands were amplified from eight root canal samples, eight gingival samples and three nasal samples, With the staphylococcal primers. PCR bands were amplified from seven root c anals. 11 gingival and nine nasal samples. This stud?, showed that PCR coul d be used to detect bacteria in root canals that possess genes with homolog y to functional regions of those encoding FnBP or FgBP. Conclusions If bacteria in root canals possess FnBP or FgBP, they may have the potential to cause infective endocarditis.