Oral Microbiome and Cognitive Decline

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Introduction to the Oral Microbiome

Graphical abstract representing the variety of diseases and conditions that may be connected to the oral microbiome.[1].

By Evan Dean '23
The oral microbiome is a dynamic and intricate ecosystem of microorganisms inhabiting the oral cavity, playing a pivotal role in maintaining oral and overall health [1]. It comprises a diverse array of bacteria, fungi, viruses, and protozoa, with more than 700 bacterial species and 1,000 phylotypes identified to date [2] [3]. Similar to fingerprints, the oral microbiome exhibits substantial variability, making it a unique feature of each person [4].

The oral microbiome's composition and function are influenced by various factors, including genetics, diet, oral hygiene, and environmental exposures [3]. Bacterial species in the oral cavity can be broadly categorized into three groups: commensals, opportunistic pathogens, and pathogens [1]. Commensal bacteria are generally harmless and can even confer health benefits, while opportunistic pathogens may cause disease under certain conditions. In contrast, pathogens are consistently associated with disease states [2]. Recent research has emphasized the importance of the oral microbiome in human health, revealing its connection to various systemic conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and even cognitive function [5] [2]. (Figure 1) Among the hundreds of bacterial species in the oral microbiome, some well-known representatives include Streptococcus mutans, associated with dental caries, and Porphyromonas gingivalis, linked to periodontal disease [3]. Other notable bacteria include the nitrogen-fixing Fusobacterium nucleatum, which plays a critical role in the development of dental plaque, and the highly diverse Actinomyces species, involved in the formation of dental biofilms [2]. The balance between pathogenic and commensal bacteria is essential for maintaining oral health, and disruptions in this equilibrium can lead to oral infections and other complications [1]. For instance, dysbiosis, an imbalance in the microbial community, can result in the overgrowth of pathogenic species, contributing to periodontitis and other oral diseases [5]. Advances in molecular techniques, such as oligotyping, have allowed scientists to explore the human oral microbiome at a higher resolution, uncovering its complex structure and interactions [4]. This deeper understanding has led to the development of novel strategies for promoting oral health, as well as the prevention and treatment of oral diseases [2]. The relationship between the oral microbiome and cognitive function is an emerging area of research. While a direct link is yet to be firmly established, there is evidence suggesting that chronic oral infections, such as periodontitis, can contribute to systemic inflammation and the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which may in turn affect cognitive function [5]. Some studies have identified specific oral pathogens, such as Porphyromonas gingivalis, in the brains of Alzheimer's disease patients, implying a potential connection between the oral microbiome and neurodegenerative disorders [2]. These findings highlight the need for further investigation to better understand the interplay between oral health, the microbiome, and overall well-being.

Alzheimer's Disease Overview

(Figure 2) Illustration of a health brain compared to a brain of an Alzheimer's patient[https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alzheimers-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20350447


Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia, affecting millions of people worldwide and posing significant public health challenges [6]. It is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by cognitive decline, memory loss, and impaired daily functioning [7]. The exact cause of AD remains unclear, but it is believed to involve a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors [8]. At the cellular level, two hallmark features of AD are the presence of extracellular amyloid plaques and intracellular neurofibrillary tangles [7]. Amyloid plaques are primarily composed of aggregated amyloid-β (Aβ) peptides, which result from the cleavage of amyloid precursor protein (APP) by β- and γ-secretases [8]. The accumulation of Aβ peptides is thought to play a critical role in the pathogenesis of AD, although the exact mechanisms by which they contribute to neurodegeneration remain under investigation [6]. Increasing evidence suggests that bacteria may play a role in the development of AD. One hypothesis is that certain bacterial infections, particularly those involving the oral cavity, can induce systemic inflammation and the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which may contribute to neuroinflammation and the accumulation of amyloid plaques [8]. In fact, some studies have identified specific oral pathogens, such as Porphyromonas gingivalis, in the brains of AD patients, supporting the potential link between oral microbiome dysbiosis and AD [7]. Given the significant public health burden of AD, understanding the potential role of bacteria and other factors in its pathogenesis is critical for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies [6].

Amyloid Plaque and Neurofibrillary Tangles

Amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles are two hallmark pathological features of Alzheimer's disease. Both amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles have been associated with synaptic dysfunction, neuronal loss, and impaired brain function [9] [10]. Amyloid plaques are extracellular deposits composed primarily of β-amyloid (Aβ) peptides, which are derived from the proteolytic cleavage of the amyloid precursor protein (APP). The aggregation of Aβ peptides into insoluble fibrils leads to the formation of amyloid plaques [11]. These plaques can disrupt synaptic communication, leading to neuronal dysfunction and ultimately cell death [12]. In addition, activated microglia and astrocytes, which are glial cells involved in the brain's immune response, have been shown to surround amyloid plaques, contributing to the inflammatory response in Alzheimer's disease [13]. Neurofibrillary tangles, on the other hand, are intracellular aggregates of hyperphosphorylated tau protein. Tau is a microtubule-associated protein that helps maintain the stability of microtubules in neuronal axons. In Alzheimer's disease, abnormal hyperphosphorylation of tau leads to the formation of paired helical filaments, which aggregate into neurofibrillary tangles [10]. These tangles disrupt the neuronal cytoskeleton, impairing axonal transport and ultimately leading to neuronal death [9]. While amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles are characteristic of Alzheimer's disease, they can also be found in the brains of cognitively normal older adults, suggesting a complex relationship with the natural aging process [10]. It is important to note that the presence of these pathological features does not necessarily lead to clinical symptoms, as other factors, such as synaptic resilience and compensatory mechanisms, can influence cognitive function in the aging brain [12]. Recent evidence has suggested that oral bacteria, particularly those associated with periodontal disease, can contribute to the development of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles in Alzheimer's disease. For instance, Porphyromonas gingivalis, a keystone pathogen in periodontitis, has been detected in the brains of Alzheimer's patients, and its toxic proteases (gingipains) have been found to co-localize with tau and Aβ [14]. This suggests a possible link between oral bacteria and the pathological features of Alzheimer's disease. Oral bacteria, particularly those related to periodontal disease, may contribute to the development of these pathological features, emphasizing the importance of oral health in maintaining cognitive function throughout aging.

Inflammatory Mediators

(Figure 3) A overview of the inflammatory mediators involved , including the production of cytokines, chemokines, and prostaglandins, and their role in perpetuating the neuroinflammatory response. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.exger.2021.111273

The connection between oral bacteria and Alzheimer's disease (AD) has been increasingly explored in recent years, with a particular focus on the role of inflammatory mediators in this relationship. Oral bacteria, particularly periodontal pathogens, can stimulate the host immune system, leading to the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Some of the main periodontal pathogens implicated in this process are Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia, and Treponema denticola [15]. These pathogens have been found to trigger the immune system, resulting in the release of cytokines such as interleukin-1 (IL-1), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) (Pritchard et al. 2017). The pro-inflammatory cytokines produced in response to oral bacteria can lead to systemic inflammation, which is thought to contribute to the pathogenesis of AD [16]. Systemic inflammation has been linked to several key features of AD pathology, including the accumulation of amyloid-β (Aβ) peptides and the formation of neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) [17]. Yang et al. (2021) investigated the oral microbiome and inflammation in individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), a precursor to AD. The study found that MCI participants had an altered oral microbiome composition compared to cognitively normal individuals, as shown in (Figure 3). Additionally, MCI participants exhibited higher levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-6 and TNF-α. These findings suggest that the oral microbiome may be involved in the inflammatory processes contributing to the development of AD. Further research has indicated that the presence of periodontal pathogens in the bloodstream may lead to the production of inflammatory mediators, which can cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and enter the central nervous system (CNS) [18]. Once inside the CNS, these inflammatory mediators may contribute to neuroinflammation. [19].

Narengaowa et al. (2021) [19] proposed that the oral-gut-brain axis could be a potential mechanism by which oral bacteria contribute to AD. In this proposed model, oral bacteria could reach the gut and impact the gut microbiome composition. The gut microbiome, in turn, could contribute to the production of inflammatory mediators, which would affect the CNS and potentially lead to the development of AD. The production of pro-inflammatory cytokines by oral bacteria is a key factor connecting the oral microbiome with the development and progression of AD. The underlying mechanisms may involve systemic inflammation, the crossing of inflammatory mediators through the BBB, and the influence of the oral-gut-brain axis. Further research is needed to fully understand the role of inflammatory mediators in this relationship and to explore potential therapeutic approaches targeting oral bacteria and inflammation in AD prevention and treatment.

Proteases

(Figure 4) Overview of the results showing association between P. gingivalis and Alzheimer's disease (AD) through the detection of P. gingivalis-derived gingipains (proteases) in AD brains. [https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.aau3333

The potential connection between oral bacteria and Alzheimer's disease (AD) is not limited to the production of inflammatory mediators. Recent research has also focused on specific proteases produced by oral bacteria and their possible involvement in the development and progression of AD. In this section, we will discuss the role of these proteases and the underlying mechanisms that may link them to AD. Porphyromonas gingivalis, a key periodontal pathogen, produces a group of proteases known as gingipains [14]. Gingipains, which include lysine-specific gingipain (Kgp) and arginine-specific gingipains (RgpA and RgpB), are thought to play a critical role in the virulence and pathogenicity of P. gingivalis [14]. Importantly, Dominy et al. (2019)[14] found that gingipains were present in the brains of AD patients, suggesting a potential link between P. gingivalis and AD pathology. Figure 4 demonstrates the presence of P. gingivalis-derived gingipains. The presence of gingipains in the AD brain may contribute to neuroinflammation and neuronal damage through multiple mechanisms. One such mechanism involves the cleavage of host proteins by gingipains, which could lead to the production of toxic protein fragments that promote inflammation and neuronal injury [20]. Additionally, gingipains may contribute to the formation of amyloid-β (Aβ) plaques, a hallmark of AD pathology, by cleaving amyloid precursor protein (APP) in a manner that promotes Aβ production [20]. Other oral bacteria, such as Treponema denticola and Tannerella forsythia, also produce proteases that could potentially contribute to AD pathology [21]. These proteases might have similar effects on the host's proteins, promoting inflammation and neurotoxicity [21]. However, further research is needed to fully understand the role of proteases from different oral bacteria in AD development and progression. Research by Panza et al. (2019)[22] suggests that targeting oral bacteria and their proteases could be a promising therapeutic approach for AD. In their review, the authors discuss the potential benefits of antibacterial therapies in preventing or treating AD, with a focus on the role of proteases. They argue that inhibiting bacterial proteases, such as gingipains, could help reduce the neuroinflammatory response and limit the production of toxic protein fragments, thereby potentially mitigating AD progression. In conclusion, proteases produced by oral bacteria, such as gingipains from P. gingivalis, may play a significant role in the development and progression of AD. These proteases could contribute to neuroinflammation and neuronal damage by cleaving host proteins and promoting the formation of toxic protein fragments and Aβ plaques. Further research is needed to better understand the precise mechanisms by which oral bacterial proteases contribute to AD pathology and to explore potential therapeutic strategies targeting these proteases for AD prevention and treatment.

Periodontal Disease

The oral microbiome is a complex ecosystem of microorganisms that inhabit the oral cavity, playing a crucial role in maintaining oral health [23]. Imbalances in the oral microbiome can lead to various oral diseases, including periodontal disease, which is characterized by inflammation and destruction of the supporting structures of the teeth [24]. Periodontal disease is a multifactorial disease involving interactions between the oral microbiome and the host's immune system [25]. Specific bacterial strains have been implicated in the initiation and progression of periodontal disease, such as Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia, and Treponema denticola [25]. These pathogenic bacteria form biofilms on tooth surfaces, which can lead to the destruction of periodontal tissues and alveolar bone loss [23]. The progression of periodontal disease can result in tooth mobility, tooth migration, and ultimately tooth loss [26]. As a consequence of tooth loss, occlusal imbalance can occur, which refers to the disruption of the normal contact and force distribution between the upper and lower teeth during mastication [26]. Occlusal imbalance may lead to further oral health issues, such as temporomandibular joint disorders, increased tooth wear, and changes in the overall structure and function of the remaining dentition [26]. Periodontal disease not only affects the oral microbiome and local oral health but also has broader implications for overall health. The presence of periodontal pathogens, such as P. gingivalis, can lead to systemic inflammation and contribute to the pathogenesis of other chronic inflammatory diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and even Alzheimer's disease [27]. The oral microbiome is intimately connected to periodontal health, and alterations in the oral microbiome can lead to the development of periodontal disease. Periodontal disease, in turn, can result in tooth loss and occlusal imbalance, further impacting oral health and overall well-being. Maintaining a balanced oral microbiome through proper oral hygiene and regular dental checkups is essential to prevent periodontal disease and its consequences on occlusal balance and systemic health.

Occlusal Imbalance

(Figure 5) Tooth loss that is a result of periodontal disease. [https://cuckfielddental.co.uk/gum-disease/

Occlusal imbalance, characterized by an improper alignment of the teeth, has been suggested to contribute to cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease through multiple mechanisms. A poor oral microbiome can lead to periodontal disease, which in turn may result in tooth loss, malocclusion, and eventually, occlusal imbalance. There is a wide range of recent research that looks at the relationship between occlusal imbalance and cognitive decline. The research looks at the various potential mechanisms that connect the two. Regarding the potential consequences of occlusal imbalance, De Cicco et al. (2016)[28] found that occlusal disharmony could negatively impact nerve function, leading to reduced cortical responsiveness in the somatosensory cortex of rats. Furthermore, Tramonti Fantozzi et al. (2019) [29] reported that occlusal disharmony led to changes in the expression of genes related to neuroplasticity in the rat hippocampus, indicating a potential mechanism through which occlusal imbalance could contribute to cognitive decline. Tooth loss, which can result from periodontal disease (Figure 5), has also been implicated in cognitive decline through multiple mechanisms. Goto et al. (2020) [30] found that losing molars in rats led to reduced cerebral blood flow in the somatosensory cortex, resulting in neuronal death and potentially impairing cognitive function. Luo et al. (2019) [31] also reported that rats with molar loss exhibited decreased spatial cognitive performance, which was associated with reduced hippocampal neurogenesis. Takeda et al. (2016) [32] demonstrated that tooth loss and a powdered diet could alter mRNA expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the hippocampus of adult mice. BDNF is a gene which is a critical component in neuronal survival, synaptic plasticity, and cognitive function [33] [34]. Another interesting connection is that tooth loss has been associated with brain atrophy [35], apoptosis [36], and alterations in hormone regulation [37]. These can contribute to cognitive decline and the development of Alzheimer's disease. Overall, a poor oral microbiome and subsequent periodontal disease may lead to occlusal imbalance and tooth loss, which can have detrimental effects on cognitive function through various mechanisms, including inflammation, neuroplasticity, cerebral blood flow, and gene expression. Maintaining good oral health and addressing occlusal imbalance may, therefore, play a crucial role in preventing cognitive decline and the development of Alzheimer's disease.

Conclusion

This page highlights the intricate relationship between oral health, particularly the oral microbiome, and the development of Alzheimer's disease. The oral cavity is home to a diverse range of microorganisms, including bacteria that play a crucial role in maintaining overall oral health. An imbalance in the oral microbiome, particularly the presence of pathogens associated with periodontal disease, can contribute to systemic inflammation, which has been implicated in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease. The presence of oral bacteria, such as Porphyromonas gingivalis, has been linked to the formation of hallmark Alzheimer's pathological features, including amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. A thorough understanding of the mechanisms through which oral bacteria and their byproducts contribute to Alzheimer's disease could lead to novel preventive and therapeutic strategies. Research investigating the role of oral microbiome dysbiosis in Alzheimer's pathogenesis is still in its early stages, and there is much to be explored. Future work could focus on elucidating the molecular pathways involved in the interaction between oral bacteria and Alzheimer's pathology, as well as on identifying potential biomarkers for early detection and intervention. The development of novel therapeutics targeting specific oral pathogens or their toxic byproducts could help mitigate Alzheimer's disease progression. Longitudinal studies examining the impact of oral health interventions on cognitive function and Alzheimer's risk are also warranted to determine the potential benefits of improved oral hygiene and periodontal care. Ultimately, the recognition of oral health as an important factor in the development and progression of Alzheimer's disease underscores the need for a multidisciplinary approach to prevention and treatment. By integrating dental care into the broader healthcare landscape, and by fostering collaboration between dental and medical professionals, we can work towards improving the quality of life for individuals at risk of or suffering from Alzheimer's disease, and potentially uncover new avenues for the prevention and treatment of this neurodegenerative disorder.

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Authored for BIOL 238 Microbiology, taught by Joan Slonczewski, 2023, Kenyon College