Proteomic study backs up link between plaque and heart disease

Melbourne University proteomic research has indicated a possible link between oral hygiene and heart disease.

The association, thrown up in the course of research into periodontal gum disease, has indicated that a specific bacteria, porphyromonas gingivalis, has links to the build up of sclerotic plaque and blood clots.

"We were looking at the way bacteria work in the lower regions of the tooth socket, at the pathogenic acid-producing organisms that exist there and the way they invade gum tissue," said Prof Eric Reynolds, head of the School of Dental Science at the University.

"This bacteria produces enzymes that are the real ringleaders in tooth destruction; there is a real war going on there with these [bacteria] having a strong attraction to blood vessels, and an adherence to them," he said.

Reynolds' team studied the bacteria and realised that because of the bacteria's affinity for blood cells, there was a high risk of transfer into the blood stream if there were any lesions in the mouth.

"There are transient risks involved when patients with bacteria in their mouth -- and possible associated gum disease -- eat food and force the bacteria into their bloodstream," he noted.

Reynolds said the bacteria then invade blood cells in the bloodstream, focus the disease on the cells and cause build up of sclerotic plaque -- in turn promoting the formation of clots.

"The research on this is at a very early stage, and we are looking at the connections between [the bacteria] and myocardial infarction. It is a very interesting link," he added.

Reynolds said proteomics research on the bacteria could help discover diagnostics and vaccines which could work across several areas of disease linked to the bacteria.

"The other issue is that when patients undergo surgery for cardiovascular disease, we will recommend a full root and plaque clean beforehand. This isn't related to simple tooth brushing, but to the removal of plaque," he said.