The Microbiome Associated with Oral Epithelial Dysplasia: A Multi-Omics Study
Rock L. (PI), Langille M. (Co-I), Laronde D. (Co-I)
We have a growing body of research connecting the microbiome and cancer. In the context of oral cancer, growing evidence, has shown oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) to be associated with a distinct microbiome. However, OSCC itself represents a late stage in the disease process. For a better understanding of the role of the microbiome in OSCC and identification of biomarkers for early detection and prevention, it is necessary to assess the microbiome in early stages of the disease.
Our research team is evaluating the feasibility of using archival FFPE (formalin-fixed paraffin embedded) oral epithelial dysplasia (OED) tissues for NGS-based microbiota characterization by comparing to FFPE to the already established NGS pipeline using cytology brushings.
This work aims to enhance patient-oriented care by exploring the diversity of the oral microbiome and its relationship to malignant transformation of OED.
This study is funded by the Dalhousie Medical Research Foundation.
