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The researchers determined that gum disease (gingivitis) plays a key role in the development of Alzheimer's disease or not.
"We have discovered DNA-based evidence that the bacteria that cause gingivitis can move from the mouth to the brain," says researcher Piotr Mydel of the University of Bergen (UiB).
The bacterium produces a protein that destroys nerve cells in the brain, resulting in memory loss and eventually Alzheimer's disease.
The study is published in Progress of science.
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The bacterium Porphyromonas gingivalis (P.gingivalis) is one of the main causes of gum infection. The bacterium causes chronic infection of the gums, but can move to the brain where it can damage nerve cells in the brain. About 50% of the population has this bacterium in one form or another and 10% of those who have it will develop severe gum disease, loose teeth and an increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.
In addition to Alzheimer's disease, the bacteria is linked to rheumatism, COPD and cancer of the esophagus.
Mydel points out that the bacterium does not only cause Alzheimer's disease, but that the presence of this bacterium greatly increases the risk of developing the disease and is also involved in a faster progression of the disease. The good news, however, is that this study shows that there are some things you can do yourself to slow down Alzheimer's disease.
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"Brush your teeth and use dental floss." Mydel adds that it is important, if you have gingivitis and Alzheimer's disease in your family, to regularly go to your dentist and brush your teeth well. .
Researchers have already discovered that the bacteria that cause gingivitis can move from the mouth to the brain, where the harmful enzymes that they excrete can destroy nerve cells in the brain.
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Now, for the first time, Mydel has DNA evidence of this process from the human brain. Mydel and colleagues examined 53 people with Alzheimer's and found the enzyme in 96% of cases. According to Mydel, this knowledge offers researchers a new approach to fight against Alzheimer's disease.
"We have succeeded in developing a drug that blocks the harmful enzymes in the bacteria, delaying the development of Alzheimer's disease. We plan to test this drug later this year, "said Mydel.
Reprinted from the University of Bergen
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