
Diabetes mellitus is a recognised risk factor for the development of periodontitis, a gum disease that is characterised by the damage of the soft tissue surrounding the teeth. While the connection between diabetes and oral health is well-documented, targeted research on the oral microbiome in diabetes patients has historically been limited.
What We Know:
The interplay between diabetes and periodontitis is bidirectional: poorly managed diabetes results in elevated blood sugar (glucose) levels in oral fluids, promoting the growth of bacteria that can lead to gum disease. Conversely, untreated periodontal infections can raise blood sugar levels, complicating diabetes management (Xiao et al., 2017).
Diabetes also alters the composition of oral bacteria. Studies involving the transfer of oral microbiota from diabetic mice to germ-free mice demonstrate that the microbiota from diabetic mice is more pathogenic. These diabetic mice exhibited increased levels of bacteria such as Proteobacteria (Enterobacteriaceae) and Firmicutes (Enterococcus, Staphylococcus and Aerococcus) which are all associated with periodontitis and impaired healing in diabetic conditions (Xiao et al., 2017).
Industry Impact and Potential:
IL-17 is a versatile cytokine involved in both immune defence and pathological immune responses. Elevated levels of IL-17 are observed in chronic periodontitis, where it triggers the production of pro-inflammatory mediators like IL-6 and RANKL, potentially leading to increased osteoclastogenesis, which contributes to bone loss (Xiao et al., 2016).
Research has shown that treatment with IL-17 antibodies can reduce the pathogenicity of the oral microbiome in diabetic mice. When the oral microbiota from IL-17-treated diabetic mice was transferred to germ-free mice, the recipients showed lower levels of neutrophil recruitment, decreased inflammatory markers like IL-6 and RANKL, and reduced bone resorption. This suggests that IL-17 treatment may mitigate the harmful effects associated with the oral microbiota in diabetes (Xiao et al., 2017).
@Frezyderm offers a specially designed oral care range for diabetics, utilising the combination of bioactive peptides and hyaluronic acid in their products. This formulation aims to regulate glucose levels in the mouth, while also reducing bone loss, combating dental plaque, hydrating and healing the gums, as well as preventing cavity formation.
Our Solution:
At Sequential, we specialise in microbiome analysis and product development across the oral, skin, scalp and vaginal areas, pioneering innovative solutions that support and preserve the microbiome. With our extensive expertise, we are well-equipped to collaborate with your company in developing products that promote a healthy oral microbiome and overall oral health, for example, protecting against diabetes-associated dysbiosis.
References:
Xiao, E., Mattos, M., Vieira, G.H.A., Chen, S., Corrêa, J.D., Wu, Y., Albiero, M.L., Bittinger, K. & Graves, D.T. (2017) Diabetes Enhances IL-17 Expression and Alters the Oral Microbiome to Increase Its Pathogenicity. Cell Host & Microbe. 22 (1), 120-128.e4. doi:10.1016/j.chom.2017.06.014.
Xiao, W., Li, S., Pacios, S., Wang, Y. & Graves, D.T. (2016) Bone Remodeling Under Pathological Conditions. Frontiers of Oral Biology. 18, 17–27. doi:10.1159/000351896.
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