Bacteriophage isolation from human saliva

Aims: To detect bacteriophages for Gram-positive oral pathogens in human saliva. Methods and Results: Saliva samples from 31 donors were screened for the presence of bacteriophages for Streptococcus sobrinus , Streptococcus mutans , Streptococcus salivarius , Actinomyces viscosus and Enterococcus faecalis . Bacteriophages for Enterococcus faecalis were found in seven samples. Enterococcus faecalis phages were still present in saliva re-collected from one donor one month, and one year after initial saliva collection. Conclusions: The presence and stability of the Enterococcus faecalis bacteriophages in human saliva suggests a possible role of these bacteriophages in the oral ecosystem. Significance and Impact of the Study: Phage therapy as a way to control oral bacteria might be considered.