Periodontopathogens Porphyromonas gingivalis and Fusobacterium nucleatum and Their Roles in the Progression of Respiratory Diseases

Abstract

The intricate interplay between oral microbiota and the human host extends beyond the confines of the oral cavity, profoundly impacting the general health status. Both periodontal diseases and respiratory diseases show high prevalence worldwide and have a marked influence on the quality of life for the patients. Accumulating studies are establishing a compelling association between periodontal diseases and respiratory diseases. Here, in this review, we specifically focus on the key periodontal pathogenic bacteria Porphyromonas gingivalis and Fusobacterium nucleatum and dissect their roles in the onset and course of respiratory diseases, mainly pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, and asthma. The mechanistic underpinnings and molecular processes on how P. gingivalis and F. nucleatum contribute to the progression of related respiratory diseases are further summarized and analyzed, including: induction of mucus hypersecretion and chronic airway inflammation; cytotoxic effects to disrupt the morphology and function of respiratory epithelial cells; synergistic pathogenic effects with respiratory pathogens like Streptococcus pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. By delving into the complex relationship to periodontal diseases and periodontopathogens, this review helps unearth novel insights into the etiopathogenesis of respiratory diseases and inspires the development of potential therapeutic avenues and preventive strategies.

Periodontal disease increases the severity of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a Mendelian randomization study

“…Studies have identified common pathogens between PD and COPD, including Porphyromonas gingivalis , Tannerella forsythia , Haemophilus, and Treponema denticola [ 39 ]. Among these, Porphyromonas gingivalis is closely linked to the development and progression of periodontal disease, being a gram-negative anaerobic bacterium commonly colonizing periodontal pockets [ 40 ]. Nan Feng et al found that it could migrate to the lungs, alter the pulmonary microbiota, and exacerbate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) [ 41 ].…”

Advances in the relationship between periodontopathogens and respiratory diseases (Review)

“…Similarly, F. nucleatum was also detected in the lower respiratory tract specimen of patients with empyema and the pleural fluid of patients with lung abscess ( 81 ). Although the source of infection is unknown, F. nucleatum colonized in the oropharynx or periodontal pocket may be a source of lung infection in individuals who are prone to aspiration ( 87 ). These results indicate the potential role of F. nucleatum in respiratory diseases.…”

High Glucose Promotes Invasion of <i>Fusobacterium nucleatum</i> and Inflammatory Responses in Human Bronchial Fibroblasts

“…The mRNA expression of IL -6 in HBFs inoculated with F. nucleatum was enhanced in all groups in this study. F. nucleatum strongly induced IL -6 production in bronchial epithelial cells, pharyngeal epithelial cells, and alveolar epithelial cells(52) . Our results are consisted with these studies.…”