The Cause of Alzheimer's Might Be Coming From Within Your Mouth

Published: Friday, June 6, 2025 at 1:00 pm

**Alzheimer's Disease: New Research Points to Potential Oral Infection Link**

Recent scientific investigations are exploring a potentially groundbreaking theory: Alzheimer's disease may be linked to infection, specifically from bacteria associated with gum disease. This research suggests the disease's origins might extend beyond the aging brain.

A 2019 study, published in *Science Advances*, identified *Porphyromonas gingivalis*, the bacteria responsible for chronic periodontitis (gum disease), in the brains of deceased Alzheimer's patients. Researchers, led by Jan Potempa and Stephen Dominy, found that oral infection with this bacteria in mice led to brain colonization, alongside increased production of amyloid beta, a protein commonly associated with Alzheimer's.

The team also discovered toxic enzymes called gingipains, secreted by the bacteria, in the brains of Alzheimer's patients. These gingipains correlated with markers of the disease, including the tau protein and ubiquitin. Notably, gingipains were also found in the brains of individuals who had not been diagnosed with Alzheimer's, suggesting the infection could be an early event in the disease's development.

The research team also tested a compound, COR388, which reduced bacterial load, amyloid-beta production, and neuroinflammation in mice. While the findings are promising, further research is needed to confirm the link between *P. gingivalis* and Alzheimer's.

BNN's Perspective:

This research offers a potentially significant shift in our understanding of Alzheimer's disease. While the findings are preliminary, the link between oral health and cognitive decline warrants further investigation. If confirmed, this could open new avenues for prevention and treatment, emphasizing the importance of oral hygiene and early intervention. The development of drugs targeting the bacteria's toxic proteins is a positive step, and continued research is crucial to determine the efficacy of these approaches in humans.

Keywords:

Alzheimer's disease, gum disease, *Porphyromonas gingivalis*, gingipains, amyloid beta, infection, dementia, oral health, research, treatment, prevention

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