What can the oral microbiome tell us about child mental health?

There is a growing need to address the rising child mental health crisis in Canada. One way is to take a personalized medicine approach which includes factors that influence an individual’s environment, genetics and their microbiome. The microbiome includes a collection of microorganisms and can live on or within the human body. Many environmental factors such as diet and lifestyle behaviours, can influence the composition of the microbiome. The microbiome is also known to differ with some diseases, however, the link between the microbiome and mental health in children is largely unknown. Therefore, the goal of our research is to examine the composition of the microbiome and related factors that are associated with mental health characteristics in children and adolescents. To do this research, we will study spit samples collected from children and adolescents, along with questionnaire data. The findings will provide possible new targets for treating mental illness.

Faculty Supervisor:

Morgan Langille

Student:

Partner:

The Hospital for Sick Children

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Health and Related Sciences & Technology; Public administration

University:

Dalhousie University

Program: