Scientists from West China Dental Hospital of Sichuan University have found that pathogens that cause gum disease increase the risk of thrombosis once they enter the bloodstream. The study results were published in the International Journal of Oral Science (IJOS).
Scientists have long known that an inflammatory disease of dental tissue – periodontitis – can enhance the process of blood clots. To explore the mechanisms behind this relationship, researchers from China analyzed a number of previously published scientific papers and concluded that pathogens that cause periodontal infections can enter the bloodstream and cause systemic inflammation.
The main causative agents of periodontitis turned out to be bacteria, such as Porphyromonas gingivalis and Tannerella forsythia, which, when entering the bloodstream, release toxins that damage vascular endothelial cells. This leads to systemic inflammation, platelet dysfunction and the formation of dense blood clots, which increases the risk of blood clots.
The scientists also noted that patients with periodontitis have high levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, as well as elevated levels of fibrinogen and C-reactive protein. These factors contribute to hypercoagulability (rapid blood clotting) and slow blood flow.
Additionally, the study found that inflammation in the mouth disrupts gut flora, leading to increased levels of trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO), which is associated with the development of atherosclerosis.
