Chronic Periodontitis

PHILADELPHIA, July 31, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Mast cells are found throughout the body close to blood vessels and are packed with granules containing the immune signaling compound histamine, and enzymes that attack pathogens and promote white blood cell recruitment. When triggered by a perceived threat, mast cells expel their contents. This activity protects against infection and aids healing, but it has also made mast cells infamous for driving allergic asthma and inflammatory skin disorders, such as rosacea and contact dermatitis. Despite their prominence, few researchers study these scarce and difficult-to-work-with cells. Hydar Ali, a professor in the Department of Translational Sciences at Penn Dental Medicine, belongs to a select group who focus on mast cells. His research explores how they function to protect the body and how things can go wrong. "These cells are relatively poorly understood, and yet we've been able to identify some of the most sought-after molecular targets to affect diseases like allergies and asthma that have the potential to kill," Ali says. He and his colleagues discovered a receptor, known as MRGPRX2, that only appears on mast cells. This research led them to find that small proteins called antimicrobial peptides could activate mast cells through MRGPRX2 to harness their protective function and help clear pathogens. In the context of an allergic response, however, he has shown that this receptor drives problematic inflammation. "It's two sides of the same coin," Ali says. More recently, his team has investigated mast cells' role in systemic allergic reactions that can lead patients to stop using the multiple sclerosis drug glatiramer acetate. Their experiments demonstrated that this medication activates MRGPRX2 receptors causing mast cells to expel histamine and their other contents, results suggesting MRGPRX2 inhibitors could treat these reactions and help patients remain on the medication. His lab is also investigating this receptor's role in periodontal disease, an inflammatory condition that damages the gums and connective tissue of the mouth. Their experiments have shown, for example, that mast cells expressing MRGPRX2 become more abundant in chronic periodontitis, the more severe form of the condition. Ultimately, he hopes to study the potential for MRGPRX2 blockers to reduce inflammation in periodontitis. Media Contact: Beth Adams, [email protected] SOURCE PENN DENTAL MEDICINE

Matcha, a finely ground green tea powder, may help keep bacteria that causes periodontitis at bay. Periodontitis is an inflammatory gum disease driven by bacterial infection and left untreated it can lead to complications including tooth loss. The disease also been associated with diabetes mellitus, preterm birth, cardiovascular disease, rheumatoid arthritis and cancer. One of the chief bacterial culprits behind periodontitis is Porphyromonas gingivalis, which colonizes biofilms on tooth surfaces and proliferates in deep periodontal pockets. Matcha, a finely ground green tea powder, may help keep P. gingivalis at bay. This week in Microbiology Spectrum, an open-access ASM journal, researchers in Japan report that matcha inhibited the growth of P. gingivalis in lab experiments. In addition, in a clinical study involving 45 people with periodontitis, people who used matcha mouthwash showed significantly lower levels of P. gingivalis in saliva samples than at the start of the study. "Matcha may have clinical applicability for prevention and treatment of periodontitis," the authors noted in the paper. Camellia sinensis is a green tea plant that has long been studied for its potential antimicrobial effects against bacteria, fungi and viruses. A previous study on mice found that green tea extract can inhibit the growth of pathogens, including Escherichia coli. Other research has found that the extract can inhibit the growth of P. gingivalis and reduce its adherence to oral epithelial cells. In addition, observational studies have associated green tea consumption with better health. Matcha, which is used in traditional ceremonies and for flavoring in beverages and sweets, is made from raw leaves of C. sinensis. For the new study, researchers from the Nihon University School of Dentistry at Matsudo, the National Institute of Infectious Disease in Tokyo and other institutions carried out a series of in vitro experiments to test the efficacy of a matcha solution against 16 oral bacterial species, including 3 strains of P. gingivalis. The matcha mouthwash showed little activity against strains of commensal oral bacteria. Within 2 hours, nearly all the cultured P. gingivalis cells had been killed by the matcha extract, and after 4 hours of exposure, all the cells were dead. Those findings suggested a bactericidal activity against the pathogen. The researchers then recruited 45 people diagnosed with chronic periodontitis at the Nihon University Hospital School of Dentistry at Matsudo for a follow up clinical study. The patients were randomly assigned to 3 groups: One group received barley tea mouthwash, the second received the mouthwash made from matcha extract, and the third received mouthwash that included sodium azulene sulfonate hydrate, which is used to treat inflammation. Saliva samples were collected before and after the intervention and analyzed using PCR, and participants were instructed to rinse twice daily. The analysis revealed that patients in the group that used matcha mouthwash showed a significant reduction in the level of P. gingivalis. Patients in the other 2 groups did not show that same significant reduction. While the new study isn't the first to probe the antimicrobial effects of tea-derived compounds on P. Gingivalis, the researchers note that it does support the potential benefits of matcha as part of a treatment plan for people with periodontal disease.

September 21, 2023 LAVAL, Quebec, September 20, 2023 – In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, Bausch Health Companies Inc. (NYSE/TSX: BHC) and its oral health care business, OraPharma, today announced its collaboration with the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) – the largest and oldest Hispanic organization in the United States – to foster a greater understanding of gum disease detection, and treatment within the Hispanic community. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a chronic bacterial infection that affects nearly 65 million American adults and is even more common among Latinos. The most common symptoms of gum disease are bleeding during or after brushing and red or swollen gums. Further, studies show gum disease may be associated with increased risk for other chronic conditions throughout the body such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease, which may considerably affect the Hispanic community. This partnership includes LULAC’s involvement in supporting the Cover Your Bases campaign, a national awareness initiative featuring patient ambassador and World Series Champion, Alex Rodriguez, who is helping to raise disease awareness by encouraging people to talk to their dentist about their oral health, including screening for gum disease. “I’m proud to welcome LULAC to the Cover Your Bases campaign to help educate the Latino community on the importance of identifying the signs and symptoms of gum disease,” said Rodriguez. “I was lucky my dentist diagnosed my gum disease early and implemented a comprehensive treatment plan. I hope that by sharing my story I can help more people do the same, especially since we know gum disease is more prevalent in men and within the Latino community.” OraPharma’s work with LULAC includes a range of educational resources featuring Alex Rodriguez that will be distributed across the organization’s social and digital channels. OraPharma will also be at LULAC’s National Health Summit in Dallas, TX on October 21st to help educate attendees about gum disease and treatment options. “As an organization dedicated to advancing the health of the Hispanic population in the United States, LULAC is honored to join hands with OraPharma and Alex Rodriguez to share this important message,” said Juan Proaño, LULAC Interim-CEO. “Millions of Hispanic Americans suffer from gum disease, yet many individuals are unaware and undiagnosed. Coupled with the potential associated health risks, gum disease is a chronic condition, so we must help heighten awareness surrounding this condition and arm our members with information that encourages them to take action and talk to their dentist. For patients with gum disease, it’s important to consider a comprehensive treatment plan to help fight the bacteria that causes gum disease. Like other bacterial infections, a dentist can treat gum disease. A treatment option for adults with gum disease is an antibiotic called ARESTIN® (minocycline HCI), which is used in combination with scaling and root planing (SRP) and applied at the site of infection. ARESTIN is part of an overall oral health program that includes good brushing and flossing habits. “As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, OraPharma is proud to partner with respected organizations like LULAC to address gum disease as an often-overlooked health disparity in the Latino community,” said Tom Stern, Vice President and General Manager at OraPharma. “Though there is no cure for gum disease, we hope that the mission we’re on together will help to bridge the information gap and empower the Hispanic community to take control of their oral health by speaking with their dentist and seeking a treatment plan that may help manage the condition.” To learn more, visit www.Arestin.com or follow us on Instagram and Facebook. About ARESTIN® INDICATION ARESTIN (minocycline HCl) Microspheres, 1mg is used in combination with scaling and root planing (SRP) procedures to treat patients with adult periodontitis (gum disease). ARESTIN may be used as part of an overall oral health program that includes good brushing and flossing habits and SRP. IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION • Do not take ARESTIN if you are allergic to minocycline or tetracyclines. Ask your dentist or pharmacist for a list of these drugs if you are not sure. Swelling of the face, itching of the skin, fever and enlarged lymph nodes have been reported with the use of ARESTIN. Some of these reactions were serious. Tell your dentist right away if you have any signs of allergic reaction, such as skin reactions or trouble breathing, or if you have an exaggerated sunburn reaction. • THE USE OF TETRACYCLINE CLASS DRUGS, INCLUDING ARESTIN, DURING TOOTH DEVELOPMENT MAY CAUSE PERMANENT DISCOLORATION OF THE TEETH, AND THEREFORE SHOULD NOT BE USED IN CHILDREN OR IN PREGNANT OR NURSING WOMEN. • ARESTIN has not been studied in patients with weakened immune systems (such as patients with HIV infections or diabetes, or those receiving chemotherapy or radiation). Tetracyclines, including oral minocycline, have been associated with the development of autoimmune syndrome with symptoms such as joint pain, muscle pain, rash, swelling, fever, enlarged lymph nodes, and general body weakness. Tell your doctor about any health problems you have, including whether you have had oral candidiasis ("thrush") in the past, and about all medications you are taking. • In clinical studies, the most frequently reported non-dental side effects were headache, infection, flu symptoms, and pain. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit http://www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Click here for full Prescribing Information. About OraPharma OraPharma is a specialty pharmaceutical company committed to partnering with dental professionals to improve oral health. Founded more than 25 years ago, OraPharma includes a curated portfolio of treatments for periodontal disease, and multiple regenerative solutions for oral surgery. More information can be found at https://www.orapharma.com/. About Bausch Health Bausch Health Companies Inc. (NYSE/TSX: BHC) is a global diversified pharmaceutical company whose mission is to improve people’s lives with our health care products. We develop, manufacture and market a range of products primarily in gastroenterology, hepatology, neurology, dermatology, international pharmaceuticals and eye health, through our controlling interest in Bausch + Lomb. With our leading durable brands, we are delivering on our commitments as we build an innovative company dedicated to advancing global health. For more information, visit www.bauschhealth.com and connect with us on Twitter and LinkedIn. About LULAC The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) is the nation's largest and oldest Hispanic civil rights volunteer-based organization that empowers Hispanic Americans and builds strong Latino communities. Headquartered in Washington, DC, with 1,000 councils around the United States and Puerto Rico, LULAC's programs, services, and advocacy address the most important issues for Latinos, meeting the critical needs of today and the future.For more information, visit https://lulac.org/ For Media Inquiries: Kevin Wiggins corporate.communications@bauschhealth.com (908) 541-3785 Bridget Mackey bmackey@coynepr.com (973) 588-2169 << Back to News Releases