Periodontopathogenic Bacteria Research Articles

Impact of Malocclusions on Periodontopathogenic Bacterial Load and Progression of Periodontal Disease: A Quantitative Analysis

Background: (1) Periodontal disease (PD) is a globally prevalent chronic inflammatory condition, exacerbated by the dysbiosis of the oral microbiota. This study aims to evaluate the bacterial load of specific periodontopathogenic bacteria in patients with malocclusions (MAL) compared to those without. (2) Methods: Conducted at the “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania, this pilot study involved two groups: patients with MAL and PD, and patients with PD but without MAL. We included 20 patients: 10 with MAL (9 with crowding and 1 with an open bite) and 10 without MAL. Gingival crevicular fluid was collected for bacterial DNA extraction and quantified bacterial load using real-time PCR, focusing on 12 periodontopathogenic bacteria across different complexity classes. (3) Results: The study identified significantly higher concentrations of Treponema denticola (p = 0.023, median = 4.32, IQR = 2.76–5.53 vs. median = 1.93, IQR = 0–3.19), Tannerella forsythia (p = 0.020, mean = 6.04 ± 0.72 vs. mean = 4.4 ± 1.89) and Porphyromonas gingivalis (p = 0.002, median = 5.64, IQR = 4.94–5.98 vs. median = 2.48, IQR = 0–4.05) in patients with MAL compared to those without. This suggests that MAL contributes to an environment conducive to the proliferation of specific pathogens, potentially accelerating PD progression. Additionally, Eikenella corrodens (p = 0.040, mean = 4.55 ± 1.02 vs. mean = 3.23 ± 1.56), Campylobacter rectus (p < 0.001, mean = 4.2 ± 0.56 vs. mean = 1.8 ± 1.51), Prevotella intermedia (p = 0.043, median = 5.04, IQR = 0–5.49 vs. median = 0, IQR = 0–3.39), Capnocytophaga sputigena (p = 0.011, median = 5.91, IQR = 5.47–6.17 vs. median = 4.63, IQR = 3.83–5.64), and Capnocytophaga gingivalis (p = 0.007, median = 5.87, IQR = 5.34–6.03 vs. median = 4.4, IQR = 3.5–5.71) also showed elevated concentrations, indicating the broad impacts of MAL on oral microbial profiles. (4) Conclusions: The findings demonstrate a significant relationship between MAL and increased bacterial loads, underscoring the need for its integration in managing PD. Future research should expand demographic diversity and employ longitudinal designs to better understand the causative mechanisms at play.

The Effects of Nicotine Pouches and E-Cigarettes on Oral Microbes: A Pilot Study

It remains uncertain whether nicotine pouches and electronic cigarettes alter the oral environment and result in a high presence of periodontopathogenic bacteria in saliva, compared to that among cigarette users or non-tobacco users. In this study, saliva samples were collected from respondents using nicotine pouches, electronic cigarettes, and conventional cigarettes, alongside a control group of non-tobacco users. Polymerase chain reaction was used to identify clinical isolates of the following periodontal bacteria: Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia, Prevotella intermedia, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Fusobacterium periodonticum, Porphyromonas endodontalis, and Rothia mucilaginosa. The presence of some periodontal pathogens was detected in the saliva samples from users of nicotine pouches, electronic cigarettes, and conventional cigarettes but not in samples taken from the control group. Therefore, the initial results of this pilot study suggest that the presence of periodontopathogenic bacteria in the saliva of nicotine pouch and electronic cigarette users could alter the oral microbiome, leading to periodontal diseases. However, further quantitative investigation is needed.

The Influence of Dental Status and Blood Parameters Characterizing Endogenous Intoxication on the Timing of Childbirth.

Background and Objectives: Epidemiological and microbiological-immunological studies have led to the conclusion that periodontal disease may be a risk factor for preterm birth. The aim of this study was to investigate and identify the relationship of some hematological cellular biomarkers characterizing the chronic oral focus of infection with pregnancy outcomes and their impact on those outcomes. Materials and Methods: Clinical and laboratory tests were conducted on 100 pregnant women, grouped by full-term or preterm births, with the assessment of the following markers: DMF, CPI and PIRI, PHP, microbiological examination of periodontal pockets and amniotic fluid, WBS count, WBCSI, LGI, and NMR. A statistical analysis was carried out with SPSS Statistics version 19.0. Results: Women with preterm labor had higher-grade caries (CSL > 0.3), while women with full-term childbirth had moderate caries (CSL < 0.3). A satisfactory level of oral hygiene efficiency was found in 50% (group 1) and 38.1% (group 2) of the expectant mothers. The periodontal status by the PIRI showed tissue lesions in 20.7% (group 1) and 92.9% (group 2) of the women. The WBCSI was 2.27 ± 0.82 and 2.15 ± 0.68, the NMR was 9.29 ± 5.119 and 11.62 ± 7.78, and the LGI was 3.54 ± 1.1 and 3.73 ± 0.81 in groups 1 and 2, respectively. Comparative analysis of bacterial contamination of the amniotic fluid revealed the predominance of Fusobacterium nucleatum (64.3%), Tannerella forsythia (57.1%), Prevotella intermedia (50%), Porphyromonas gingivalis (57.1%), Staphylococcus aureus (45.2%), and Candida albicans (50%) in women with premature birth. Conclusions: In women with preterm birth, the values of the indices characterizing a chronic oral focus of infection evoke more significant correlations with the timing of delivery, which indicates the significant role of an oral focus of infection. The presence of microbial invasion of amniotic fluid may indicate the role of periodontopathogenic bacteria in pregnant women diagnosed with a risk of preterm birth.

Sulfated Chitosan-Modified CuS Nanocluster: A Versatile Nanoformulation for Simultaneous Antibacterial and Bone Regenerative Therapy in Periodontitis.

Periodontitis, a prevalent chronic inflammatory disease worldwide, is triggered by periodontopathogenic bacteria, resulting in the progressive destruction of periodontal tissue, particularly the alveolar bone. To effectively address periodontitis, this study proposed a nanoformulation known as CuS@MSN-SCS. This formulation involves coating citrate-grafted copper sulfide (CuS) nanoparticles with mesoporous silica (MSNs), followed by surface modification using amino groups and sulfated chitosan (SCS) through electrostatic interactions. The objective of this formulation is to achieve efficient bacteria removal by inducing ROS signaling pathways mediated by Cu2+ ions. Additionally, it aims to promote alveolar bone regeneration through Cu2+-induced pro-angiogenesis and SCS-mediated bone regeneration. As anticipated, by regulating the surface charges, the negatively charged CuS nanoparticles capped with sodium citrate were successfully coated with MSNs, and the subsequent introduction of amine groups using (3-aminopropyl)triethoxysilane was followed by the incorporation of SCS through electrostatic interactions, resulting in the formation of CuS@MSN-SCS. The developed nanoformulation was verified to not only significantly exacerbate the oxidative stress of Fusobacterium nucleatum, thereby suppressing bacteria growth and biofilm formation in vitro, but also effectively alleviate the inflammatory response and promote alveolar bone regeneration without evident biotoxicity in an in vivo rat periodontitis model. These findings contribute to the therapeutic effect on periodontitis. Overall, this study successfully developed a nanoformulation for combating bacteria and facilitating alveolar bone regeneration, demonstrating the promising potential for clinical treatment of periodontitis.

Real-Time PCR Method as Diagnostic Tool for Detection of Periodontal Pathogens in Patients with Periodontitis.

The most common type of periodontal disease is chronic periodontitis, an inflammatory condition caused by pathogenic bacteria in subgingival plaque. The aim of our study was the development of a real-time PCR test as a diagnostic tool for the detection and differentiation of five periodontopathogenic bacteria, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia, Prevotella intermedia, and Treponema denticola, in patients with periodontitis. We compared the results of our in-house method with the micro-IDent® semiquantitative commercially available test based on the PCR hybridization method. DNA was isolated from subgingival plaque samples taken from 50 patients and then analyzed by both methods. Comparing the results of the two methods, they show a specificity of 100% for all bacteria. The sensitivity for A. actinomycetemcomitans was 97.5%, for P. gingivalis 96.88%, and for P. intermedia 95.24%. The sensitivity for Tannerella forsythia and T. denticola was 100%. The Spearman correlation factor of two different measurements was 0.976 for A. actinomycetemcomitans, 0.967 for P. gingivalis, 0.949 for P. intermedia, 0.966 for Tannerella forsythia, and 0.917 for T. denticola. In conclusion, the in-house real-time PCR method developed in our laboratory can provide information about relative amount of five bacterial species present in subgingival plaque in patients with periodontitis. It is likely that such a test could be used in dental diagnostics in assessing the efficacy of any treatment to reduce the bacterial burden.

Evaluation of the Role of Oral Microbes in Pathogenesis of Oral Lichen Planus

ABSTRACT Background: The pathophysiology and etiology of oral lichen planus (OLP) are still unknown, despite the fact that the condition’s progression has been connected to a T-cell-based immune response. Research has focused on variables, such as oral bacteria, that may cause an autoimmune reaction with conflicting results. Aim: This study was conducted to evaluate the role of oral microorganisms in the pathogenesis of OLP. Materials and Methods: In this study, 82 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded specimens of histopathologically confirmed cases of OLP and 20 such specimens of normal healthy subjects were obtained. Immunohistochemistry was carried out for the identification of microorganisms. Results: Candida albicans was observed in 47.12% of OLP cases and 9.43% of healthy controls. Helicobacter pylori was discovered in 45.21% of OLP cases and 13.46% of healthy controls. Periodontopathogenic bacteria was found in 33.14% of OLP cases and 13.45% of healthy controls. Human papillomavirus (HPV)-16 was noticed in 38.12% of OLP cases and 11.24% in the control group. HPV-18 was found in 32.43% of OLP patients and 11.43% in the control group. Mycoplasma salivarium was found in 46.47% of OLP patients and 6.45% in control. Conclusion: It was observed that several microorganisms like H. pylori, C. albicans, M. salivarium, periodontopathogenic bacteria, HPV-16, and HPV-18 were found to be related to OLP.

Effect of sleeve gastrectomy on the levels of oral volatile sulfur compounds and halitosis-related bacteria

BackgroundThe association between sleeve gastrectomy and halitosis remains relatively unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of sleeve gastrectomy on halitosis and the oral bacterial species associated with halitosis in patients with obesity. MethodsThis was a prospective longitudinal cohort study that examined patients before and after sleeve gastrectomy and followed the patients at three time intervals (1, 3, and 6 months) after sleeve gastrectomy. Clinical periodontal measurements (plaque index [PI], gingival index [GI], and probing depth [PD]) were obtained. In addition, plaque samples were collected for quantification of the periodontopathogenic bacteria: Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia, Treponema denticola, and Fusobacterium nucleatum using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). In addition, breath samples were collected to analyze the concentration of volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs), namely hydrogen sulfide (H2S), methyl mercaptan (CH3SH), and dimethyl sulfide (CH3SCH3), via portable gas chromatography (Oral Chroma™). ResultsOf the 43 patients initially included, 39 completed the study, with a mean age of 32.2 ± 10.4 years. For PI and GI repeated measurements one way analysis of variance showed a significant increase (p-value < 0.001 for both) one month after surgery, with mean values of 1.3 and 1.59, respectively, compared to the baseline. During the same period, the number of P. gingivalis increased, with a p-value = 0.04. Similarly, the levels of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and methyl mercaptan (CH3SH) increased significantly in the first month after surgery (p-value = 0.02 and 0.01, respectively). ConclusionThis study demonstrated that sleeve gastrectomy may lead to increased halitosis one month post-surgery, attributed to elevated and P. gingivalis counts, contributing to the development of gingivitis in obese patients who underwent sleeve gastrectomy. This emphasizes the importance of including oral health professionals in the multidisciplinary team for the management of patients undergoing bariatric surgery

Could Periodontitis Increase the Risk of Suffering from Pancreatic Cancer?-A Systematic Review.

(1) Background: The relationship between periodontitis and systemic pathologies continues to grow. Recently, the presence of periodontal pathogens has been linked to an increased risk of pancreatic cancer (PC) and its mortality. Thus, a systematic review is needed to identify whether an association between the two diseases can be established. The objective of this review is to elucidate the mechanisms responsible for this association. (2) Methods: A systematic review was carried out using three databases (PubMed, Embase and Scopus) with the following keywords "Periodontitis AND pancreatic cancer". A total of 653 articles were retrieved; before selection and screening, the inclusion and exclusion criteria were defined, resulting in a total of 13 articles being included in the review. (3) Results: The increase in low-grade systemic inflammation, pH changes, and the cytotoxicity of certain periodontopathogenic bacteria were found in the scientific literature reviewed as mechanisms linking periodontitis with the risk of PC. (4) Conclusions: Through this systematic review, we have seen how periodontitis can be related to PC and how it worsens its prognosis. Knowing the behavior of periodontopathogenic bacteria and the influence they have on our immune and inflammatory system may help to achieve an interdisciplinary approach to both pathologies.

Bactericidal activity of slightly acidic electrolyzed water against the cariogenic bacterium Streptococcus mutans and other oral bacteria

AbstractIntroductionSlightly acidic electrolyzed water (SAEW) is sterilizing agent produced by the electrolysis of hydrochloric acid. Because SAEW has been applied to various foods as the disinfectant, SAEW is expected to be used in the medical field. In this study, we evaluated the bactericidal effect of SAEW on various oral bacteria.MethodologyThe bactericidal activity of SAEW against cariogenic bacteria, periodontopathogenic bacteria, and antibiotic‐resistant bacteria was evaluated.ResultsWe first examined the effect of SAEW on Streptococcus mutans UA159 with different reaction time or the number of bacterial cells. SAEW showed complete bactericidal activity against up to 107 cells within 1 min and even 10 s. Against cariogenic bacteria, periodontopathogenic bacteria, and antibiotic‐resistant bacteria, we evaluated the bactericidal effect of SAEW against 10 S. mutans clinical isolates, three periodontopathogenic bacteria, and 18 cephalosporin‐resistant Gram‐negative bacteria, and we found complete killing against all bacteria. Various dilutions (25%, 50%, and 75%) of SAEW by water still showed complete bactericidal activity, while dilutions by artificial saliva lost the bactericidal activity significantly, with 23.3% bactericidal activity even by 75% SAEW. Storage of SAEW for 7 days at room temperature still showed complete killing activity.ConclusionOur results demonstrated that SAEW has a high antibacterial effect on oral bacteria, indicating the possibility of clinical use in the dental field such as disinfection of dental devices and oral care.

Эндотелиальная дисфункция и пародонтопатогенная микрофлора: аспекты патогенетической коррекции бактериофагом

INTRODUCTION: Alteration of the expression of intercellular adhesion molecules on the surface of endotheliocytes is associated with disorders of anticoagulant, antiplatelet, fibrinolytic and barrier functions of the endothelium. It results in derangement of microcirculation in periodontal tissues, and, together with adhesive, invasive toxic properties of the main periodontopathogenic bacteria Аggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia, Treponema denticola, and Prevotella intermedia, leads to a chronic systemic periodontitis (CSP). AIM: To evaluate pathogenetic aspects of the effect of phagotherapy on the level of secretion of soluble forms of adhesive molecules and on periodontopathogenic microflora. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study material was the discharge of the dentogingival/periodontal pocket (DG/PP) of patients with intact periodontium and with CSP. The first subgroup with CSP, in addition to therapeutic treatment, received a course of Phagodent bacteriophage applications, the subsecond group received only therapeutic treatment. RESULTS: A high frequency of isolation of periodontal pathogens (92.0%) in patients with CSP was reflected in the detection of P. gingivalis in 81% of cases, T. forsythia in 74% of cases, A. actinomycetemcomitans in 37.0% of cases. On the top of the administered therapy, a statistically significant (6.2 times) decrease in the level of A. actinomycetemcomitans was revealed in subgroup 1 (p = 0.03) and 1.58 times decrease in subgroup 2 (p = 0.045). The content of T. forsythia decreased by 3.9 (p = 0.034) and 2.4 (p = 0.02) times in the respective groups. A significant decrease in the level of T. denticola was detected only in subgroup 1 (p = 0.04). The levels of intercellular adhesion molecules during the therapy decreased in both groups, but most significantly when using a bacteriophage: sICAM-1 decreased 3.2 times in subgroup 1 (p &lt; 0.001) and 2.1 times in subgroup 2 (p &lt; 0.001), sVCAM — 6.4 times (p &lt; 0.001) and 4.6 times (p &lt; 0.001), respectively. The content of sL-selectin and sE-selectin in PP decreased 4.1-times (p &lt; 0.001) and 2.2 times, (p &lt; 0.001), respectively, in individuals receiving bacteriophage and 2.2 times (p &lt; 0.001) and 1.5 times (p &lt; 0.001) in patients with another method of treating CSP. CONCLUSION: The effectiveness of targeted pathogenetic correction using a bacteriophage for the treatment of CSP was confirmed by a decrease in the quantitative content of marker periodontopathogenic microorganisms in the DGP discharge and normalization of the concentration of adhesive molecules, which indicated reduction of the degree of endothelial dysfunction.

Effectiveness of Probiotic Therapy in the Management of PeriodontalDisease in Diabetic Patients: A Scoping Review.

Probiotics can compete with periodontal pathogens in the formation of dental biofilm, and they are able to modulate local and systemic immune responses. Thus, its use in diabetic patients with periodontal disease (PD) can overcome the limitations of conventional periodontal treatment. This scoping review aimed to understand the extent and type of evidence in relation to the effects of probiotic therapy on periodontal and glycaemic parameters of diabetic patients with PD. An electronic search was performed in the following databases: Cochrane Library, EMBASE, Virtual Health Library (including LILACS and BBO), PubMed (including Medline), Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. The review included clinical trials on patients with type 2 diabetes, diagnosed with gingivitis or periodontitis, who received probiotic therapy as a single therapy or adjuvant to scaling and root planning, and on whom the analyses of clinical periodontal, immunological, microbiological, or glycaemic parameters were performed. The electronic search yielded a total of 1165 articles. After removing duplicate titles and performing systematic screening, 6 studies were included in the qualitative summary. Probiotic administration improved clinical periodontal parameters (bleeding on probing and probing depth), oxidative stress markers, and inflammatory cytokines (IL-8, IL-10, and TNF-α) in relation to control groups. Experimental groups were also more advantageous in reducing the frequency of periodontopathogenic bacteria. However, the evidence of probiotics in decreasing glycated hemoglobin is still uncertain. Probiotics may provide safe additional benefits to periodontal parameters of patients with type 2 diabetes and periodontal disease.

The potential impact of periodontitis on cerebral small vessel disease.

Cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) is a term used to describe abnormalities in the intracranial microvasculature affecting small arteries, arterioles, capillaries, and venules. The etiology of these conditions is not fully understood but inflammation appears to play a significant role. Periodontal diseases have been associated with conditions such as stroke and dementia, which are clinical consequences of CSVD. Periodontitis is a highly prevalent chronic multifactorial inflammatory disease regulated by the host immune response against pathogenic bacterial colonization around the teeth. The inflammatory response and the microbial dysbiosis produce pro-inflammatory cytokines that can reach the brain and promote local changes. This review will explore the potential association between periodontitis and CSVD by assessing the impact of periodontitis-induced inflammation and periodontopathogenic bacteria on the underlying mechanisms leading to CSVD. Given the association of periodontitis with stroke and dementia, which are clinical features of CSVD, it may be possible to suggest a link with CSVD. Current evidence linking periodontitis with neuroimaging findings of CSVD enforces the possible link between these conditions.

Oral Complications Associated with the Piercing of Oral and Perioral Tissues and the Corresponding Degree of Awareness among Public and Professionals: A Systematic Review.

This study systematically reviews the literature to evaluate the potential relationships between oral/perioral piercing and consequent oral complications in the corresponding society. The second objective was determining public/professional sectors' awareness of the subject. This research followed PRISMA and Cochrane guidelines for conducting systematic reviews and searching scientific databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, and Google Scholar, until April 2023. Cross-sectional, cohort, and case-control studies in English were deemed eligible. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using proper quality assessment guidelines. Of the 965 initial articles retrieved, 34 were considered suitable for qualitative synthesis after screening procedures and removing duplicates and irrelevant records. There appears to be an imbalance between the general public's low and dentists' high awareness. This draws attention to the shortage of professional and societal knowledge-sharing and education initiatives. Women were more than twice as likely as men to have oral piercings. Piercing usage had a low incidence among a cohort of students with a mean age of 16. Merely circumstantial evidence has indicated a plausible correlation between oral and perioral piercings and the emergence of secondary bacterial and fungal colonization, particularly periodontopathogenic bacteria and Candida albicans. Furthermore, several adverse consequences have been observed linked to various piercings-such as lip and tongue piercings. These include caries, gingivitis/periodontitis, dental fractures, enamel chipping/cracks, plaque buildup, bone loss, bleeding, inflammation, and swelling. Given the risks involved and the complications that might impair oral health, the prevalence of oral piercings is alarming. As a result, public health authorities need to firmly support initiatives to raise awareness of the risks associated with oral/perioral piercings. For piercers to enhance their expertise in this field, professional training is necessary because there is a shortage of knowledge on the possible adverse effects of piercings.

Latest Evidence on Orthognathic Surgery Techniques and Potential Changes in Oral Microbiota related to Intermaxillary Fixation in Orthodontic Patients: A Systematic Review

Background: Orthognathic surgery is often applied for the correction of facial dysmorphia, and different findings were highlighted regarding the techniques applied. After surgical treatment, intermaxillary fixation is placed, which compromises oral hygiene and, consequently, can lead to increased plaque accumulation and microbiological changes, promoting the proliferation of periodontopathogenic bacteria. Therefore, the aims of the present review are to describe the main evidence from the last 20 years of clinical studies concerning surgical techniques applied to orthognathic surgery and, finally, to analyze potential changes in the oral microbiota. Materials and Methods: An electronic search was conducted in the PubMed (MEDLINE) and Scopus databases; the MeSH (Medical Subject Heading) terms are bacteria, dental plaque, evidence-based practice, maxillomandibular fixation, microbiota, operative procedures, and orthognathic surgery. Results: At the end of the search process, 31 relevant articles were finally included and analyzed in this systematic review, which has a low risk of bias. Clinical studies on humans have been considered in this review. Based on the studies included it would be preferable to use piezoelectric technology in osteotomies because of its many advantages, “surgery-first” technique allows for results comparable to the standard technique in Class III malocclusions while improving quality of life more rapidly, the “mandible-first” technique seems to have more advantages than the “maxilla-first” technique, Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing (CAD/CAM) could provide more accurate and precise results, and finally, Laser can be applied with different advantages. Regarding intermaxillary fixation, no long-term increase in the concentration of periodontal bacteria was recorded. Conclusion: Several findings still need to be confirmed with reference to the best suturing technique to reconstitute the nasal wing base, the real effectiveness of “surgery-first,” “maxilla-first,” and “mandible-first” approaches in patients with Class III malocclusion, the use of CAD/CAM and Laser, more studies should be conducted to evaluate quantitative and qualitative changes in other microorganisms following intermaxillary fixation.

The Role of Inflammatory Biomarkers of Crevicular Fluid Involved in Modulating of Immune Protection Mechanisms in Chronic Periodontitis

INTRODUCTION: Chronic periodontal inflammation is provoked by persistence of subgingival bacterial flora and is mediated through the production of proinflammatory cytokines that induce the innate immune reactions.&#x0D; АIM: To establish the interrelation of secretion of interleukin 1 and immune component of soluble CD14 co-receptor with the main periodontopathogenic microorganisms in patients with chronic generalized periodontitis.&#x0D; MATERIALS AND METHODS: A clinical and laboratory examination of patients with chronic generalized periodontitis (n = 100) and individuals with the intact parodontium (n = 63) was conducted. Molecular genetic studies (isolation of periodontal pathogens by polymerase chain reaction in real time), immune enzyme assay (isolation of interleukin 1 and soluble CD14 co-receptor) and statistical analysis of the data obtained were performed.&#x0D; RESULTS: The frequency of isolation of periodontopathogenic bacteria in patients with the diagnosis of chronic periodontitis was 96.4% (T. forsythia 81%, р 0.001; P. gingivalis 69%, р 0.001; Tr. denticola 63%, р = 0.054). In 25% of cases, C. Albicans (р 0.001), in 37% Pr. intermedia (р 0.001) and in 30% A. actinomycetemcomitans (р 0.001) were isolated. The average concentrations of soluble CD14 co-receptor were 2.13 [1.89; 2.76] pg/ml in the control group and 20.3 [17.3; 22.5] ng/ml in the group of patients with chronic periodontitis (р 0.001). Concentrations of interleukin 1 were 3.187 [2.356; 4.633] pg/ml in the control group and 33.68 [17.255; 56.915] pg/ml in the group of patients with chronic periodontitis (р 0.001).&#x0D; CONCLUSION: Inflammation of periodontal tissues is supported by the factors of aggression and toxins not only of known periodontal pathogens, but also by their associations, which leads to enhancement of virulence factors and increase in secretion of interleukin 1 and soluble CD14 co-receptor, which, in turn, causes destruction of alveolar bone.

Biological Properties and Antimicrobial Potential of Cocoa and Its Effects on Systemic and Oral Health.

Cocoa is considered a functional food because it is a natural source of macro- and micronutrients. Thus, cocoa is rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, fatty acids, methylxanthines and flavonoids. In addition to favoring the metabolism of lipids and carbohydrates, the bioactive components of cocoa can have an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effect, providing numerous benefits for health. This literature review presents an overview of the effects of cocoa, fruit of the Theobroma cacao tree, on systemic and oral health. Several studies report that cocoa intake may contribute to the prevention of cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, immunological, inflammatory, metabolic and bone diseases, in addition to reducing the risk of vascular alterations and cognitive dysfunctions. On oral health, in vitro studies have shown that cocoa extract exerted an inhibitory effect on the growth, adherence and metabolism of cariogenic and periodontopathogenic bacteria, also inhibiting acid production, glycosyltransferase enzyme activity and the synthesis of insoluble polysaccharides. Additionally, administration of cocoa extract reduced biofilm accumulation and caries development in animals infected with cariogenic species. Clinical studies also reported that the use of mouthwashes containing cocoa extract reduced Streptococcus mutans counts in saliva and dental biofilm formation. In short, these studies highlight the nutritional value of cocoa, considering its clinical applicability, stability and economic accessibility.

Porphyromonas gingivalis induces an inflammatory response via the cGAS-STING signaling pathway in a periodontitis mouse model.

Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease initiated by periodontopathogenic bacteria in the dental plaque biofilms. Understanding the role of Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis), a keystone pathogen associated with chronic periodontitis, in the inflammatory response is crucial. Herein, we investigated whether P. gingivalis infection triggers the expression of the type I IFN gene and various cytokines and leads to activation of the cGAMP synthase-stimulator of IFN genes (cGAS-STING) pathway both in vitro and in a mouse model. Additionally, in an experimental model of periodontitis using P. gingivalis, StingGt mice showed lower levels of inflammatory cytokines and bone resorption than wild-type mice. Furthermore, we report that a STING inhibitor (SN-011) significantly decreased inflammatory cytokine production and osteoclast formation in a periodontitis mouse model with P. gingivalis. In addition, STING agonist (SR-717) -treated periodontitis mice displayed enhanced macrophage infiltration and M1 macrophage polarization in periodontal lesions compared with that in vehicle-treated periodontitis mice. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that the cGAS-STING signaling pathway may be one of the key mechanisms crucial for the P. gingivalis-induced inflammatory response that leads to chronic periodontitis.

Porphyromonas gingivalis induces cardiovascular dysfunction.

Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) is one of the most responsible periodontopathogenic bacteria in the development of periodontal disease (PD); however, its role in the development of other diseases still needs to be understood, specially its implications in the causation of cardiovascular pathogenesis. The aim of this study is to determine whether there is a direct association between P. gingivalis-induced PD with that of the development of cardiovascular disease, and whether a long-term administration of probiotic(s) could help improve the cardiovascular disease outcome. To test this hypothesis, we employed four different experimental groups of mice, designated as: Group I: Wild-type (WT) mice (C57BL/6J); Group II: Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) (WT mice treated with a probiotic; LGG), Group III: PD (WT mice treated with P. gingivalis), and Group IV: PD+LGG (WT mice treated with P. gingivalis and LGG). PD was created by injecting 2 µL (i.e., 20 µg) of P. gingivalis lipopolysaccharide (LPS) intragingivally between the 1st and 2nd mandibular molars, two times a week for a total period of 6 weeks. The PD (LGG) intervention was done orally employing 2.5× 105 CFU/day for a continuous period of 12 weeks. Immediately before the mice were sacrificed, echocardiography of the heart was performed, and after sacrifice, we collected serum samples, hearts, and the periodontal tissue. Histological assessment, cytokine analysis, and zymography of the cardiac tissue were performed. Results revealed inflammation of the heart muscle in the PD group that was marked by infiltration of neutrophils and monocytes, followed by fibrosis. Cytokine analysis of the mice sera revealed significantly elevated levels of tumor necrosis factor-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-17A in the PD group along with LPS-binding protein, and CD14. Most importantly, we observed elevated levels of P. gingivalis mRNAs in the heart tissues of PD mice. Zymographic analysis demonstrated matrix remodeling as revealed by increasing content of MMP-9 in the heart tissues of PD mice. Interestingly, LGG treatment was able to mitigate most of the pathological effects. The findings suggest that P. gingivalis could lead to cardiovascular system disorder and that probiotic intervention could alleviate, and most likely prevent bacteremia and its harmful effect(s) on the cardiovascular function.

Human salivary protein-derived peptides specific-salivary SIgA antibodies enhanced by nasal double DNA adjuvant in mice play an essential role in preventing Porphyromonas gingivalis colonization: an in-vitro study

BackgroundWe previously showed that fimbriae-bore from Poryphyromonas gingivalis (Pg), one of the putative periodontopathogenic bacteria specifically bound to a peptide domain (stat23, prp21) shared on statherin or acidic proline-rich protein 1 (PRP1) molecule of human salivary proteins (HSPs). Here, we investigated whether the nasal administration of DNA plasmid expressing Flt3 ligand (pFL) and CpG oligodeoxynucleotide 1826 as double DNA adjuvant (dDA) with stat23 and prpr21 induces antigen (Ag)-specific salivary secretory IgA (SIgA) antibodies (Abs) in mice. Further, we examined that stat23- and prpr21-specific salivary SIgA Abs induced by dDA have an impact on Pg-binding to human whole saliva-coated hydroxyapatite beads (wsHAPs).Material and methodsC57BL/6N mice were nasally immunized with dDA plus sta23 or/and prp21 peptide as Ag four times at weekly intervals. Saliva was collected one week after the final immunization and was subjected to Ag-specific ELISA. To examine the functional applicability of Ag-specific SIgA Abs, SIgA-enriched saliva samples were subjected to Pg binding inhibition assay to wsHAPs.ResultsSignificantly elevated levels of salivary SIgA Ab to stat23 or prp21 were seen in mice given nasal stat23 or prp21 with dDA compared to those in mice given Ag alone. Of interest, mice nasally given the mixture of stat23 and prp21 as double Ags plus dDA, resulted in both stat23- and prp21-specific salivary SIgA Ab responses, which are mediated through significantly increased numbers of CD11c+ dendritic cell populations and markedly elevated Th1 and Th2 cytokines production by CD4+ T cells in the mucosal inductive and effector tissues. The SIgA Ab-enriched saliva showed significantly reduced numbers of live Pg cells binding to wsHAPs as compared with those in mice given double Ags without dDA or naïve mice. Additionally, saliva from IgA-deficient mice given nasal double Ags plus dDA indicated no decrease of live Pg binding to wsHAPs.ConclusionThese findings show that HSP-derived peptides-specific salivary SIgA Abs induced by nasal administration of stat23 and prp21 peptides plus dDA, play an essential role in preventing Pg attachment and colonization on the surface of teeth, suggesting a potency that the SIgA may interrupt and mask fimbriae-binding domains in HSPs on the teeth.

Bovine Milk and Yogurt Affect Oral Microorganisms and Biofilms In-Vitro.

To evaluate the effect of bovine milk and yogurt on selected oral microorganisms and different oral biofilms. Milk was prepared from 0.5% fat (low-fat) and 16% fat (high fat) milk powder. For yogurt preparation, the strains Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. bulgarcius and Streptococcus thermophilus were added to the milk. Minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC) and minimal microbiocidal concentrations (MMC) of the test compounds were measured against various microorganisms by the microbroth dilution technique. Cariogenic periodontal biofilms and one containing Candida were created on plastic surfaces coated with test substances. Further, preformed biofilms were exposed to the test substances at a concentration of 100% for 10 min and thereafter 10% for 50 min. Both colony forming units (cfu) and metabolic activity were quantified in the biofilms. Neither high-fat milk, low-fat milk nor casein inhibited the growth of any species. Yogurt and L. delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus at low MIC and MMC suppressed the growth of Porphyromonas gingivalis and other bacteria associated with periodontal disease. High-fat yogurt decreased cfu in the forming periodontal biofilm by 90%. Both low- and high-fat yogurts reduced metabolic activity in newly forming and preformed periodontal and Candida biofilms, but not in the cariogenic biofilm. Yogurt and L. delbru eckii ssp. bulgaricus, but not milk, were bactericidal against periodontopathogenic bacteria. Yoghurt reduced the metabolic activity of a Candida biofilm and a periodontal biofilm. Yogurt and L. delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus may have potential in prevention and therapy of periodontal diseases and Candida infections.