Oral Microbiota Linking Humoral Response, Periodontitis and Atherosclerosis

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Microbiology
• Cardiovascular Disease Research

Background:

• The humoral immune system plays a role in the association between periodontitis and atherosclerosis.
• Understanding the interplay between oral microbiota and immune responses is crucial for elucidating this link.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the role of oral microbiota and humoral immune responses in the periodontitis-atherosclerosis association.
• To identify specific oral bacteria and immune markers involved in this connection.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of data from the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966 (n=1560).
• Measurement of serum antibodies (IgA, IgG) against phosphorylcholine (PCho) and malondialdehyde acetaldehyde (MAA) adducts.
• Oral microbiome characterization using 16S rRNA gene sequencing in a sub-cohort (n=868).

Main Results:

• Elevated IgA and IgG to PCho, and IgA to MAA, correlated with increased probing pocket depths (PPD) ≥ 4mm.
• Specific oral bacteria, including Filifactor alocis, were associated with both PPD ≥ 4mm and antibody responses to PCho.
• F. alocis was identified as a mediator linking IgG to PCho with periodontitis severity and was associated with increased carotid intima-media thickness.

Conclusions:

• Filifactor alocis emerges as a potential microbial link between periodontitis and atherosclerosis.
• Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms by which F. alocis drives systemic IgG responses and atherosclerosis.