Periodontitis exacerbates atherosclerosis through Fusobacterium nucleatum-promoted hepatic glycolysis and lipogenesis

Advances of functional nanomaterials as either therapeutic agents or delivery systems in the treatment of periodontitis

Periodontitis is a common chronic inflammatory disease primarily caused by pathogenic microorganisms in the oral cavity. Without appropriate treatments, it may lead to the gradual destruction of the supporting tissues of the teeth. While current treatments can alleviate symptoms, they still have limitations, particularly in eliminating pathogenic bacteria, promoting periodontal tissue regeneration, and avoiding antibiotic resistance. In recent years, functional nanomaterials have shown great potential in the treatment of periodontitis due to their unique physicochemical and biological properties. This review summarizes various functionalization strategies of nanomaterials and explores their potential applications in periodontitis treatment, including metal-based nanoparticles, carbon nanomaterials, polymeric nanoparticles, and exosomes. The mechanisms and advances in antibacterial effects, immune regulation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging, and bone tissue regeneration are discussed in detail. In addition, the challenges and future directions of applying nanomaterials in periodontitis therapy are also discussed.

Fusobacterium nucleatum enhances cholesterol biosynthesis in colorectal cancer via miR-130a-3p-mediated AMPK inhibition, a process counteracted by butyrate

Fusobacterium nucleatum (Fn) has been implicated in various diseases, including colorectal cancer (CRC). This study elucidates Fn's contribution to cholesterol synthesis and the underlying link with CRC, as well as butyrate's counteracting effects in this process. Cells and mouse models were treated with Fn followed/accompanied by butyrate treatments to investigate the interplay between butyrate and Fn's oncogenic properties. Transcriptomics analysis pinpointed Fn's profound impact on cholesterol biosynthesis genes and pathways. Fn treatment upregulated the expression of genes involved in cholesterol synthesis (FDPS, FDFT1, and SQLE) and increased SREBF2 activity in cells and mouse intestines, elevating cholesterol levels in cells, intestines, and sera. Fn upregulated miR-130a-3p, identified through transcriptomics and target prediction, through nuclear factor-κB activation. miR-130a-3p subsequently downregulated AMPKα/β1 expression to activate SREBF2 and upregulate cholesterol biosynthesis genes. These effects were predominantly mitigated by butyrate. Notably, analysis of TCGA data revealed that fusobacterial abundance correlated significantly with the expression of FDPS, FDFT1, SQLE, and AMPKα/β1 in CRC. Fn abundance and miRNA expression in human stools were quantified using qPCR and RT-qPCR. Fecal miR-130a-3p levels increased progressively from normal subjects through adenoma patients to CRC patients, correlating significantly with fecal Fn abundance. Additionally, heightened fecal Fn abundance was associated with an increased incidence of hypercholesterolemia in CRC patients. Fn promotes cholesterol biosynthesis by upregulating miR-130a-3p, which downregulates AMPK proteins and activates SREBF2. This study highlights the influence of gut bacteria on host cholesterol synthesis. Targeted modulation of gut microbiota to reduce cholesterol may represent a promising preventive strategy for CRC.

Linking oral microbiota to periodontitis and hypertension unveils that Filifactor alocis aggravates hypertension via infiltration of interferon-γ+ T cells

Periodontal disease (PD), an inflammatory disease initiated by oral microbiota, may aggravate hypertension (HTN). Few studies were employed to characterize the oral microbiota in hypertensive patients with periodontitis. To investigate the interplay between oral microbiota and hypertension in individuals with periodontitis, we initiated a metagenomic sequencing study on subgingival plaque and saliva samples sourced from HTN patients and those with hypertension and periodontitis (PDHTN). Our primary objective was to characterize species serving as pivotal links (bridge species) in exacerbating hypertension induced by periodontal disease. Within subgingival plaque and saliva specimens, we pinpointed 31 and 28 bridge species, respectively. Furthermore, we noted a decrease in the abundance of nitrate-reducing bacteria, such as Actinomyces spp., Rothia spp., and Veillonella spp., in PDHTN samples. Employing network analysis, we distinguished distinct polymicrobial clusters within the two patient groups. These bridge species coalesced into polymicrobial clusters, revealing intricate symbiotic and competitive relationships. To substantiate our findings, we leveraged an angiotensin II-infused animal model of ligature-induced periodontitis (LIP), confirming the contributory role of Filifactor alocis-a selectively analyzed subgingival bridge species-in exacerbating hypertension and upregulating the frequency of renal CD4+IFNγ+ and CD8+IFNγ+ T cells. Our study screened a list of species linking PD and HTN. PD may aggravate HTN by decreasing the abundance of nitrate-reducing bacteria and increasing the abundance of pathogens. Using an animal model, we demonstrated that F. alocis aggravates HTN via the accumulation of IFNγ+ T cells in the kidneys.

IMPORTANCE

Both periodontal disease and hypertension are widely prevalent all over the world. PD may aggravate the development of HTN via oral microbiota. However, few studies were employed to characterize the oral microbiota in hypertensive patients with periodontitis. Here, the present study profiled the oral microbiota in hypertensive participants with periodontitis. We found that the depleted abundance of nitrate-reducing bacteria and the enriched abundance of pathogens. Finally, we validated the role of Filifactor alocis in exacerbating HTN via infiltration of IFNγ+ T cells in mice kidneys. Our study improved the understanding of oral microbiota linking PD and HTN.

Age-related oral microbiota dysbiosis and systemic diseases

The oral microbiota is an essential microbial community within the human body, playing a vital role in maintaining health. In older adults, age-related changes in the oral microbiota are linked to both systemic and oral health impairments. The use of various medications for systemic diseases in the elderly can also contribute to the development of oral diseases. Oral microbiota dysbiosis refers to an imbalance in the composition of oral microbial communities. This imbalance, along with disruptions in the host immune response and prolonged inflammation, is closely associated with the onset and progression of several diseases. It contributes to oral conditions such as dental caries, periodontal disease, and halitosis. It is also linked to systemic diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus, rheumatoid arthritis, atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, and aspiration pneumonia. This review aims to explore how oral microbiota influences specific health outcomes in older individuals, focusing on Alzheimer's disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus, rheumatoid arthritis, atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, and aspiration pneumonia. The oral microbiota holds promise as a diagnostic tool, therapeutic target, and prognostic biomarker for managing cardiovascular disease, metabolic diseases, infectious diseases and autoimmune diseases. Emphasizing proper oral health care and instilling an understanding of how drugs prescribed for systemic disease impact the oral microbiome, is anticipated to emerge as a key strategy for promoting the general health of older adults.

Microbiome and fragmentation pattern of blood cell-free DNA and fecal metagenome enhance colorectal cancer micro-dysbiosis and diagnosis analysis: a proof-of-concept study

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer, and it can be prevented by performing early screening. As a hallmark of cancer, the human microbiome plays important roles in the occurrence and development of CRC. Recently, the blood microbiome has been proposed as an effective diagnostic tool for various diseases, yet its performance on CRC deserves further exploration. In this study, 133 human feces and 120 blood samples are collected, including healthy individuals, adenoma patients, and CRC patients. The blood cfDNA and fecal genome are subjected to shotgun metagenome sequencing. After removing human sequences, the microbial sequences in blood are analyzed. Based on the differential microbes and functions, random forest (RF) models are constructed for adenoma and CRC diagnosis. The results show that alterations of blood microbial signatures can be captured under low coverage (even at 3×). RF diagnostic models based on blood microbial markers achieve high area under the curve (AUC) values for adenoma patients (0.8849) and CRC patients (0.9824). When the fragmentation pattern is combined with microbial and KEGG markers, higher AUC values are obtained. Furthermore, compared to the blood microbiome, the fecal microbiome shows a different community composition, whereas their changes in KEGG pathways are similar. Pathogenic bacteria Fusobacterium nucleatum (F. nucleatum) in feces increased gradually from the healthy group to the adenoma and CRC groups. Additionally, F. nucleatum in feces and blood shows a positive correlation in CRC patients. Cumulatively, the integration of blood microbiome and fragmentation pattern is promising for CRC diagnosis.IMPORTANCEThe cell-free DNA of the human microbiome can enter the blood and can be used for cancer diagnosis, whereas its diagnostic potential in colorectal cancer and association with gut microbiome has not been explored. The microbial sequences in blood account for less than 1% of the total sequences. The blood microbial composition, KEGG functions, and fragmentation pattern are different among healthy individuals, adenoma patients, and CRC patients. Machine learning models based on these differential characteristics achieve high diagnostic accuracy, especially when they are integrated with fragmentation patterns. The great difference between fecal and blood microbiomes indicates that microbial sequences in blood may originate from various organs. Therefore, this study provides new insights into the community composition and functions of the blood microbiome of CRC and proposes an effective non-invasive diagnostic tool.

The role of cellular lipid metabolism and lipid-lowering drugs in periodontitis

Initiated by bacteria, periodontitis (PD) is a complex, chronic inflammatory disease of the supporting tissue of the gums and teeth. Also linked to PD include human papillomavirus (HPV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), human cytomegalovirus (CMV), and Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV). PD also raises the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) because it triggers inflammatory reactions throughout the body. CVD and chronic PD were linked to significantly elevated levels of C-reactive protein and blood lipids. Furthermore, elevated lipid peroxidation (LPO) levels may influence PD-related inflammation and periodontium degradation. In addition, there was a correlation between a reduction in oxidized low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels and a reduction in circulating oxidative stress (OS); this was shown to be achieved by improved dental hygiene and non-surgical periodontal treatment. Consequently, this research set out to examine the connections between lipid metabolism and PD, as well as the effects of PD on the efficacy of statins and other medications that decrease cholesterol, as well as inhibitors and other lipid-lowering agents. Additionally, it's worth mentioning that statins and other cholesterol-lowering drugs may affect gum and tooth health. We found that higher blood levels of bad cholesterol exacerbate PD. Furthermore, PD makes CVD worse. The involvement of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) in bacterial infections and the development of PD is inversely proportional to the increase in LDL levels. The treatment of this disease could, therefore, benefit greatly by inhibiting this chemical. Medications that lower cholesterol levels may potentially help treat this problem. The possible side effects of this medication on PD patients need more investigation. We have reviewed the literature on PD and its relationship to lipid metabolism, LDL receptors, and lipid rafts. Afterward, we investigated the role of lipid metabolism in the local viral infection that causes PD. Lastly, we examined how statins and other lipid-lowering medications impact PD.

Oral Fusobacterium nucleatum exacerbates ulcerative colitis via the oral-gut axis: mechanisms and therapeutic implications

Background

Fusobacterium nucleatum (F. nucleatum) is an anaerobic bacterium known for its association with periodontal disease and oral infections. It has been implicated in the development of gastrointestinal diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease and colorectal cancer. Ulcerative colitis (UC), which is characterized by chronic inflammation of the colon, is a condition of unknown etiology with a rising incidence rate, significantly affecting the quality of life for patients. The increased intestinal permeability during UC may facilitate the adherence or invasion of F. nucleatum into the damaged intestinal barrier, leading to exacerbated inflammation.

Methods

This article introduces the concept of the oral-gut axis, reviewing existing literature to analyze the role of F. nucleatum in the pathogenesis of UC and exploring its potential pathogenic mechanisms. It also summarizes the latest advances in treating patients with UC who have F. nucleatum and looks forward to prospective therapeutic strategies and the translational prospects of F. nucleatum within the oral-gut axis.

Results

F. nucleatum may be a key player in the pathogenesis of UC, likely due to its invasiveness during periods of increased intestinal permeability. The paper also discusses innovative approaches for the prevention and management of UC exacerbated by F. nucleatum, paving the way for more effective treatment of UC.

Conclusion

The review offers new insights into the complex relationship between the oral microbiome and intestinal diseases, enhancing our understanding of their dynamic interactions. There is a paucity of literature on therapeutic approaches, indicating a need for further clinical research.

Disruption of the eEF1A1/ARID3A/PKC-δ Complex by Neferine Inhibits Macrophage Glycolytic Reprogramming in Atherosclerosis

Glycolytic reprogramming of macrophages is a decisive factor in atherosclerosis (AS) plaque formation. Eukaryotic elongation factor 1A1 (eEF1A1) plays an important role in protein synthesis, ubiquitination degradation, and nuclear translocation. However, the potential function of eEF1A1 in AS has not yet been fully understood. Here, the natural small molecule neferine (Nef), which targets eEF1A1 to suppress macrophage glycolytic reprogramming is discovered. In this work, chemical genetics and non-modified target confirmation assays are used to confirm that eEF1A1 is a direct target of Nef. Mechanically, Nef disrupted the formation of the eEF1A1/ARID3A/PKC-δ complex, inhibits phosphorylation of ARID3A at Thr491, and consequently prevents its nuclear translocation. Meanwhile, it is verified that ARID3A is a transcriptional regulator of enolase 2 (ENO2), an important enzyme in the glycolytic process. Nef suppresses ENO2 transcription activation by affecting ARID3A binding to the promoter region of ENO2, which results in macrophage glycolytic reprogramming inhibition and transformation of macrophages from M1 to M2. Collectively, these findings provide an attractive future direction for AS therapy by inhibiting ARID3A/ENO2-mediated macrophage glycolytic reprogramming by targeting eEF1A1.

Advances in brain ischemia mechanisms and treatment approaches: Recent insights and inflammation-driven risks

The application of existing radical treatments for stroke is limited to a small number of cases, with current practices predominantly focusing on conservative therapy. This review examines the pathophysiology of excitotoxicity, oxidative stress, and inflammation during brain ischemia caused by stroke, highlighting insights into each pathology and reporting the latest therapeutic developments that are expected to serve as new treatment options. Finally, we outline the recent attention given to the relationship between periodontal disease and stroke. We propose addressing the limitations of existing treatments for stroke and suggest novel therapeutic approaches while also presenting the potential contribution of periodontal disease treatment to the prevention of stroke.

Unveiling the Molecular Crosstalk Between Periodontal and Cardiovascular Diseases: A Systematic Review

Background/Objectives: Periodontal disease (PD) is a chronic inflammatory condition caused by dysbiosis of the oral microbiome. PD is linked to systemic inflammation and endothelial dysfunction, which associate it with cardiovascular disease (CVD). This systematic review explores the molecular and microbial mechanisms through which periodontal pathogens, including "Red Complex" bacteria (Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia, Treponema denticola) and Fusobacterium nucleatum, influence cardiovascular health via inflammatory pathways, immune modulation, and microbial dissemination. Methods: A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. A literature search was conducted in the PubMed and ScienceDirect databases using relevant keywords, with strict inclusion and exclusion criteria, from the first week of September 2024 to the first week of October 2024. Studies addressing the relationship between PD and CVD were assessed for methodological rigor, relevance, and data availability. The outcomes were synthesized using a descriptive narrative approach. Out of 591 records screened, 421 full-text articles were sought for retrieval. The final review included 58 articles providing supplementary aggregated data after eligibility assessment. Results: The pathogenesis of PD involves the activation of immune cells and the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines (such as IL-1, IL-6, TNF-α, and PGE2) and chemokines (including IL-8 and MCP-1) along with oxidative stress driven by reactive oxygen species (ROS). Periodontal pathogens trigger endothelial oxidative stress and systemic inflammation via Toll-like receptors (TLRs), NF-κB signaling, and nitric oxide (NO) dysregulation, contributing to endothelial dysfunction and atherogenesis. Biomarkers, such as C-reactive protein, interleukins, and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), further highlight the systemic inflammatory response. Conclusions: This review underscores the significant role of periodontal pathogens and inflammatory mediators in systemic health, particularly in the progression of CVD. Although existing evidence illustrates these associations, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain inadequately understood, indicating a need for further research to advance precision medicine and therapeutic strategies.

The Association Between Periodontitis and the Prevalence and Prognosis of Metabolic Syndrome

Objective

Periodontitis and metabolic syndrome (MetS) are both linked to inflammation, but their association remains unclear. This study aimed to explore the association between periodontitis and MetS prevalence and evaluate its impact on the prognosis of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in MetS.

Methods

Data were obtained from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database. Logistic regression analysis was used to investigate the association between periodontitis and the prevalence of MetS, while Cox regression analysis was applied to assess the association between periodontal status and the poor prognosis in individuals with MetS. Furthermore, restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis was performed to evaluate the linear and nonlinear associations between periodontal parameters, including attachment loss (AL) and probing depth (PD), and the prevalence and mortality of MetS.

Results

A total of 9,270 individuals were included in the analysis. Individuals with periodontitis had a higher prevalence of MetS compared to those without periodontitis (OR=1.24, 95% CI: 1.08-1.43). Cox regression analysis revealed that periodontitis was associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality (HR=2.03, 95% CI:1.40-2.92) and cardiovascular mortality (HR=2.32, 95% CI:1.05-5.10) among individuals with MetS. Furthermore, the RCS analysis demonstrated that AL had a nonlinear association with the risk of prevalence, all-cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality in MetS (P for nonlinearity < 0.05). However, PD was linearly associated with the increased risks of these outcomes (P overall < 0.05).

Conclusion

Periodontitis is associated with an increased risk of MetS, as well as higher risks of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality.

Klebsiella pneumoniae-derived extracellular vesicles impair endothelial function by inhibiting SIRT1

BACKGROUND

The potential role of Klebsiella pneumoniae (K.pn) in hypertension development has been emphasized, although the specific mechanisms have not been well understood. Bacterial extracellular vesicles (BEVs) released by Gram-negative bacteria modulate host cell functions by delivering bacterial components to host cells. Endothelial dysfunction is an important early event in the pathogenesis of hypertension, yet the impact of K.pn-secreted EVs (K.pn EVs) on endothelial function remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effects of K.pn EVs on endothelial function and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms.

METHODS

K.pn EVs were purified from the bacterial suspension using ultracentrifugation and characterized by transmission electron microscopy nanoparticle tracking analysis, and EV marker expression. Endothelium-dependent relaxation was measured using a wire myograph after in vivo or ex vivo treatment with K.pn EVs. Superoxide anion production was measured by confocal microscopy and HUVEC senescence was assessed by SA-β-gal activity. SIRT1 overexpression or activator was utilized to investigate the underlying mechanisms.

RESULTS

Our data showed that K.pn significantly impaired acetylcholine-induced endothelium-dependent relaxation and increased superoxide anion production in endothelial cells in vivo. Similarly, in vivo and ex vivo studies showed that K.pn EVs caused significant endothelial dysfunction, endothelial provocation, and increased blood pressure. Further examination revealed that K.pn EVs reduced the levels of SIRT1 and p-eNOS and increased the levels of NOX2, COX-2, ET-1, and p53 in endothelial cells. Notably, overexpression or activation of SIRT1 attenuated the adverse effects and protein changes induced by K.pn EVs on endothelial cells.

CONCLUSION

This study reveals a novel role of K.pn EVs in endothelial dysfunction and dissects the relevant mechanism involved in this process, which will help to establish a comprehensive understanding of K.pn EVs in endothelial dysfunction and hypertension from a new scope.

The oral-gut microbiota axis: a link in cardiometabolic diseases

The oral-gut microbiota axis plays a crucial role in cardiometabolic health. This review explores the interactions between these microbiomes through enteric, hematogenous, and immune pathways, resulting in disruptions in microbial balance and metabolic processes. These disruptions contribute to systemic inflammation, metabolic disorders, and endothelial dysfunction, which are closely associated with cardiometabolic diseases. Understanding these interactions provides insights for innovative therapeutic strategies to prevent and manage cardiometabolic diseases.

Crosstalk between periodontitis and cardiovascular risk

Recent demographic developments resulted in an aged society with a rising disease burden of systemic and non-communicable diseases (NCDs). In cardiovascular disease (CVD), a NCD with high morbidity and mortality, recent preventive strategies include the investigation of comorbidities to reduce its significant economic burden. Periodontal disease, an oral bacterial-induced inflammatory disease of tooth-supporting tissue, is regulated in its prevalence and severity by the individual host response to a dysbiotic oral microbiota. Clinically, both NCDs are highly associated; however, shared risk factors such as smoking, obesity, type II diabetes mellitus and chronic stress represent only an insufficient explanation for the multifaceted interactions of both disease entities. Specifically, the crosstalk between both diseases is not yet fully understood. This review summarizes current knowledge on the clinical association of periodontitis and CVD, and elaborates on how periodontitis-induced pathophysiological mechanisms in patients may contribute to increased cardiovascular risk with focus on atherosclerosis. Clinical implications as well as current and future therapy considerations are discussed. Overall, this review supports novel scientific endeavors aiming at improving the quality of life with a comprehensive and integrated approach to improve well-being of the aging populations worldwide.

Periodontal pathogen Fusobacterium nucleatum infection accelerates hepatic steatosis in high-fat diet-fed ApoE knockout mice by inhibiting Nrf2/Keap1 signaling

AIMS

This study sought to explore the impact of Fusobacterium nucleatum on hepatic steatosis in apolipoprotein E (ApoE) knockout (KO) mice induced by a high-fat diet (HFD) and elucidate the underlying mechanism.

METHODS

ApoE KO mice, on a HFD, received F. nucleatum oral inoculation every other day. After 24 weeks, body weight, liver weight, and liver index were assessed. Serum biochemistry and pro-inflammatory factors in serum and liver were analyzed. The histopathology of right maxilla and live were performed. Oil red O, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence staining for the liver were conducted. Myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, apoptosis, lipid reactive oxygen species (ROS), ROS, lipid peroxides, and hepatic lipids were also evaluated. Liver inflammation, fibrosis, de novo lipogenesis (DNL)-related molecule, and Nrf2/Keap1-related signaling molecule gene/protein expression were determined by real-time PCR (RT-PCR) and/or Western blot (WB) analysis.

RESULTS

HFD-fed ApoE KO mice infected by F. nucleatum demonstrated significant changes, including increased body and liver weight, elevated proinflammatory factors and lipids in serum and liver, as well as neutrophil infiltration, fibrosis, apoptosis, oxidative stress, and lipid peroxidation in the liver. Additionally, F. nucleatum stimulates hepatic lipid accumulation and activates de novo lipogenesis (DNL), while simultaneously suppressing the Nrf2/Keap1 antioxidant pathway.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, our study reveals that oral inoculation of F. nucleatum might promote hepatic steatosis by inhibiting Nrf2/Keap1 pathway.

Oral Pathobiont-Derived Outer Membrane Vesicles in the Oral-Gut Axis

Oral pathobionts are essential in instigating local inflammation within the oral cavity and contribute to the pathogenesis of diseases in the gastrointestinal tract and other distant organs. Among the Gram-negative pathobionts, Porphyromonas gingivalis and Fusobacterium nucleatum emerge as critical drivers of periodontitis, exerting their influence not only locally but also as inducers of gut dysbiosis, intestinal disturbances, and systemic ailments. This dual impact is facilitated by their ectopic colonization of the intestinal mucosa and the subsequent mediation of distal systemic effects by releasing outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) into circulation. This review elucidates the principal components of oral pathobiont-derived OMVs implicated in disease pathogenesis within the oral-gut axis, detailing virulence factors that OMVs carry and their interactions with host epithelial and immune cells, both in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, we shed light on the less acknowledged interplay between oral pathobionts and the gut commensal Akkermansia muciniphila, which can directly impede oral pathobionts' growth and modulate bacterial gene expression. Notably, OMVs derived from A. muciniphila emerge as promoters of anti-inflammatory effects within the gastrointestinal and distant tissues. Consequently, we explore the potential of A. muciniphila-derived OMVs to interact with oral pathobionts and prevent disease in the oral-gut axis.

Effect of Periodontal Treatment in Patients with Periodontitis and Diabetes: Review of Systematic Reviews with Meta-Analyses in the Last Five Years

BACKGROUND

Periodontitis is a chronic infectious-inflammatory pathology, with a high prevalence, which destroys the dental support and, if left untreated, leads to tooth loss. It is associated with other pathologies, particularly diabetes mellitus.

OBJECTIVES

Our objective was to conduct a review of systematic reviews with meta-analyses to determine the evidence for periodontal treatment on periodontitis and diabetes. Second, we assessed the risk of bias and methodological quality using the AMSTAR-2 and ROBIS tools.

METHODS

We performed bibliographic searches in PubMed/Medline, Embase, Cochrane Central, Dentistry & Oral Sciences Source databases and in the Web of Science (WOS) scientific information service to identify systematic reviews with meta-analyses from the last five years.

RESULTS

Eighteen studies that met the inclusion criteria and evaluated 16,247 subjects were included. The most studied parameters were probing pocket depth, clinical attachment level, bleeding on probing and the glycated hemoglobin. Most of the included meta-analyses evaluated adult patients with periodontitis and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Most of the meta-analyses considered and assessed by AMSTAR-2 showed significant methodological errors. The risk of bias was the domain with the worst assessment with the ROBIS tool.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the weaknesses of the included meta-analyses in terms of methodological quality and the risk of bias, periodontal treatment and DM treatment appear to contribute to improved clinical outcomes in a bidirectional manner between periodontitis and DM.

A universal oral microbiome-based signature for periodontitis

We analyzed eight oral microbiota shotgun metagenomic sequencing cohorts from five countries and three continents, identifying 54 species biomarkers and 26 metabolic biomarkers consistently altered in health and disease states across three or more cohorts. Additionally, machine learning models based on taxonomic profiles achieved high accuracy in distinguishing periodontitis patients from controls (internal and external areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves of 0.86 and 0.85, respectively). These results support metagenome-based diagnosis of periodontitis and provide a foundation for further research and effective treatment strategies.

Based on network pharmacology and molecular docking to explore the potential mechanism of shikonin in periodontitis

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the potential mechanisms of shikonin in preventing and treating periodontitis using network pharmacology and molecular docking methods.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The targets of shikonin were obtained in TCMSP and SEA databases, and targets of periodontitis were gathered from the OMIM, GeneCards and Drugbank Databases. The intersecting targets were entered into the DAVID database to obtain the relevant biological functions and pathways by GO and KEGG enrichment analysis. The obtained targets were analysed the protein-protein interaction (PPI) in STRING platform. In Cytoscape 3.8.0, the network analysis function with the MCODE plug-in were used to obtain the key targets, of shikonin and periodontitis. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation (MD) were used to assess the affinity between the shikonin and the key targets.

RESULTS

Shikonin was screened for 22 targets and periodontitis was screened for 944 targets, the intersecting targets were considered as potential therapeutic targets. The targets played important roles in cellular response to hypoxia, response to xenobiotic stimulus and positive regulates of apoptotic process by GO enrichment analysis. 10 significant pathways were analyzed by KEGG, such as human cytomegalovirus infection and PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, etc. Cytoscape software screened the key genes including AKT1, CCL5, CXCR4, PPARG, PTEN, PTGS2 and TP53. Molecular docking and MD results showed that shikonin could bind stably to the targets.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study enriched the molecular mechanisms in periodontitis with shikonin, providing potential therapeutic targets for periodontitis.

Impact of the gut microbiome on atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory metabolic disease with a complex pathogenesis. However, the exact details of its pathogenesis are still unclear, which limits effective clinical treatment of atherosclerosis. Recently, multiple studies have demonstrated that the gut microbiota plays a pivotal role in the onset and progression of atherosclerosis. This review discusses possible treatments for atherosclerosis using the gut microbiome as an intervention target and summarizes the role of the gut microbiome and its metabolites in the development of atherosclerosis. New strategies for the treatment of atherosclerosis are needed. This review provides clues for further research on the mechanisms of the relationship between the gut microbiota and atherosclerosis.

Cardiovascular disease therapeutics via engineered oral microbiota: Applications and perspective

Engineering bacteria are considered as a potential treatment for cardiovascular diseases and related risk factors. Oral bacteria are closely related to the occurrence and development of cardiovascular diseases, and their engineering has broad prospects and potential in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Oral pathogenic bacteria undergo protein and genetic engineering, including the incorporation of exogenous plasmids to yield therapeutic effects; genetically engineered oral probiotics can be harnessed to secrete cytokines and reactive oxygen species, offering novel therapeutic avenues for cardiovascular diseases.

Fusobacterium nucleatum mechanism of action in alveolar bone destruction: Scoping review

Fusobacterium nucleatum is implicated in periodontitis, a chronic inflammatory disease that destroys the periodontal tissue and alveolar bone due to host-microbe dysbiosis. This study focuses on understanding how F. nucleatum contributes to bone destruction in periodontitis. The literature search was conducted using PubMed and Scopus databases based on Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses guidelines by entering preselected keyword combinations of inclusion and exclusion criteria. Qualifying literature was evaluated based on four inclusion criteria: research articles, published in English, within the last ten years, and available in full text. The literature search yielded five articles exploring the mechanism of bone resorption by F. nucleatum. It was found that the bacteria increases the production of inflammatory mediators, such as interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-8, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, C-C motif chemokine ligand (CCL) 2, CCL20, and C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 1, which leads to the destruction of alveolar bone. During infection, biomechanical stress also raises levels of prostaglandin E2 and cyclooxygenase-2. The elevated levels of inflammatory mediators and enzymes generate an imbalance in the receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand to osteoprotegerin ratio, hindering osteogenic differentiation and heightening bone destruction. In conclusion, F. nucleatum infection promotes alveolar bone destruction by inducing inflammatory responses and inhibiting osteogenic differentiation stimulated by biomechanical loading. More research is essential to explore the connection between F. nucleatum virulence and its alveolar bone degradation mechanisms.

Moderate intensity exercise may protect cardiac function by influencing spleen microbiome composition

The beneficial effects of physical exercise on human cardiorespiratory fitness might be through reduced systemic inflammation, but the mechanism remains a controversy. Recent studies have highlighted the importance of spleen microbiomes in immune regulation. Hence, we conducted a study using a high-fat diet and exercise mouse model to investigate the relationships among different exercise intensities, spleen microbiome composition, and cardiac function. The mice spleen contained a diverse array of microbiota. Different intensities of exercise resulted in varying compositions of the spleen microbiome, Treg cell levels, and mouse heart function. Additionally, the abundance of Lactobacillus johnsonii in the mouse spleen exhibited a positive correlation with Treg cell levels, suggesting that Lactobacillus johnsonii may contribute to the production of Treg cells, potentially explaining the protective role of moderate-intensity exercise on cardiac function. In conclusion, our findings provide evidence that moderate-intensity exercise may promote cardiac function protection by influencing the spleen microbiome composition.

[Periodontitis : An underestimated risk of cardiovascular diseases]

Epidemiological studies have identified periodontitis as a contributing factor to cardiovascular risk. Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the tissues supporting the teeth. Although the nature of the association between periodontitis and cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains to be defined, the low-grade systemic inflammation and chronic bacteremia associated with periodontitis appear to be involved in the development of atherosclerosis and associated cardiovascular pathologies. Periodontal treatment has been shown to improve cardiovascular health parameters. A bidirectional preventive approach, involving the management of both periodontitis and cardiovascular risk factors, could lead to a reduction in morbidity and mortality related to cardiovascular disease.

Oral pathogens exacerbate Parkinson's disease by promoting Th1 cell infiltration in mice

BACKGROUND

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common chronic neurological disorder with a high risk of disability and no cure. Periodontitis is an infectious bacterial disease occurring in periodontal supporting tissues. Studies have shown that periodontitis is closely related to PD. However, direct evidence of the effect of periodontitis on PD is lacking. Here, we demonstrated that ligature-induced periodontitis with application of subgingival plaque (LIP-SP) exacerbated motor dysfunction, microglial activation, and dopaminergic neuron loss in 1-Methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-induced PD mice.

RESULTS

The 16S rRNA gene sequencing revealed that LIP-SP induced oral and gut dysbiosis. Particularly, Veillonella parvula (V. parvula) and Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) from oral ligatures were increased in the fecal samples of MPTP + LIP-SP treated mice. We further demonstrated that V. parvula and S. mutans played crucial roles in LIP-SP mediated exacerbation of motor dysfunction and neurodegeneration in PD mice. V. parvula and S. mutans caused microglial activation in the brain, as well as T helper 1 (Th1) cells infiltration in the brain, cervical lymph nodes, ileum and colon in PD mice. Moreover, we observed a protective effect of IFNγ neutralization on dopaminergic neurons in V. parvula- and S. mutans-treated PD mice.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrates that oral pathogens V. parvula and S. mutans necessitate the existence of periodontitis to exacerbate motor dysfunction and neurodegeneration in MPTP-induced PD mice. The underlying mechanisms include alterations of oral and gut microbiota, along with immune activation in both brain and peripheral regions. Video Abstract.

Association between Periodontal Disease and Arteriosclerosis-Related Diseases

Periodontitis, a major inflammatory disease of the oral cavity that can cause low-grade systemic inflammation, has been suggested to influence the development of comorbidities. Multiple systemic inflammatory mechanisms are common in the development of periodontal disease and atherosclerosis. Observational studies conducted worldwide have reported that periodontal disease may independently influence the progression of atherosclerotic disease. However, there is still insufficient evidence to demonstrate the causal relationship. This review describes the association between periodontal disease and arteriosclerosis-related diseases with the latest findings.

The recovery of the microbial community after plaque removal depends on periodontal health status

Plaque accumulation and microbial community changes are important causes of periodontal disease. Cleaned plaque microorganisms will reattach to form biofilms, but the recovery and outcome of plaque microbial communities in different periodontal health states remain unknown. In this study, we tracked the biofilm remodeling process in 206 dental plaque samples from 40 healthy periodontal, gingivitis and periodontitis volunteers at 6 time points before and after supragingival scaling. We found that microbial communities of different periodontal states changed asynchronously during the process, and the more severe the periodontal disease condition, the more lagged the recovery of plaque microorganisms to their original state after cleaning; this reflected a higher degree of plaque development in periodontitis samples. The plaque index and bleeding index were significantly correlated with plaque recovery, especially the recovery of bacteria such as Abiotrophia and Capnocytophaga. Meanwhile, we found that the microbial community structure of different periodontal health states was most similar at the Day 3 after plaque cleaning, and the communities gradually differentiated and developed in different directions. Abiotrophia and other bacteria might play an important role in determining the development trend of plaque biofilms. The discovery of specific time points and bacteria was of great value in clarifying the pathogenesis of periodontal disease and in seeking targets for prevention and treatment.

The Roles of Periodontal Bacteria in Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis (AS) is an inflammatory vascular disease that constitutes a major underlying cause of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and stroke. Infection is a contributing risk factor for AS. Epidemiological evidence has implicated individuals afflicted by periodontitis displaying an increased susceptibility to AS and CVD. This review concisely outlines several prevalent periodontal pathogens identified within atherosclerotic plaques, including Porphyromonas gingivalis, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, and Fusobacterium nucleatum. We review the existing epidemiological evidence elucidating the association between these pathogens and AS-related diseases, and the diverse mechanisms for which these pathogens may engage in AS, such as endothelial barrier disruption, immune system activation, facilitation of monocyte adhesion and aggregation, and promotion of foam cell formation, all of which contribute to the progression and destabilization of atherosclerotic plaques. Notably, the intricate interplay among bacteria underscores the complex impact of periodontitis on AS. In conclusion, advancing our understanding of the relationship between periodontal pathogens and AS will undoubtedly offer invaluable insights and potential therapeutic avenues for the prevention and management of AS.