Gum Disease Bacteria may contribute to Alzheimer’s Disease
Only recently has the complex relationship between microbiome, the body and its organs been fully appreciated. It is becoming clear that the bacteria of the gut may play a role in aging. Some bacteria found in the mouth, which are associated with chronic gum disease and Alzheimer’s [1], could also be involved.
Jan Potempa, a University of Louisville researcher from the Department of Oral Immunology and Infectious Diseases at the School of Dentistry, led a group of scientists to conduct a study that showed the bacteria Porphyromonasgingivalis (P.gingivalis), which is the primary pathogen in chronic periodontitis patients, was also found in their brains. Chronic periodontitis, a common oral condition, is characterized as a chronic inflammation of the periodontal tissue. This is caused by excessive dental plaque.
There have been a few reports that suggest there is an infectious component to Alzheimer’s, but the evidence was limited. Researchers claim that the study provides strong evidence of a link between P. gingivalis infection and Alzheimer’s.
Source:
https://www.leafscience.org/gum-disease-bacteria-may-contribute-to-alzheimers-disease/
