Overview of the research work of Prof. Takashiba and the Department of Pathophysiology – Periodontal Science – research outputs and impact

Abstract

If periodontitis, or gum disease, is left untreated, it can lead to strokes, diabetes, heart disease and the onset of dementia. The alveolar bone is an area of the mouth that is particularly impacted by periodontal disease and periodontists have therefore been searching for a means of regenerating lost alveolar bone with periodontal tissue. Dr Shogo Takashiba, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences at Okayama University, is working to help patients retain the oral functions they require for nutrition and to develop means of managing infection and inflammation, thereby improving general health. In particular, he and his team are looking at preventing biofilm-related infection, evaluating infection and inflammation, and regenerating periodontal tissue. A key focus for the researchers is on producing cost-effective methods for treating periodontal disease and, as such, they are working to develop anti-biofilm reagents for long-term use considering emerging issue of antimicrobial resistance. Part of this work involves cetylpyridinium chloride hydrate (CPC) and Takashiba and the team have developed a strategy to prevent the development of biofilm by combining phosphorylated pullulan and CPC. They have obtained patents for their oral wash, rinse and ointments in Japan, China, the US, the EU and Canada and are now looking at how to produce these regenerative and anti-biofilm treatments on an industrial scale, which will enable the general public to access the innovative treatments.