The Roles and Interactions of Porphyromonas gingivalis and Fusobacterium nucleatum in Oral and Gastrointestinal Carcinogenesis: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Epidemiological studies have spotlighted the intricate relationship between individual oral bacteria and tumor occurrence. Porphyromonas gingivalis and Fusobacteria nucleatum, which are known periodontal pathogens, have emerged as extensively studied participants with potential pathogenic abilities in carcinogenesis. However, the complex dynamics arising from interactions between these two pathogens were less addressed. This narrative review aims to summarize the current knowledge on the prevalence and mechanism implications of P. gingivalis and F. nucleatum in the carcinogenesis of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), colorectal cancer (CRC), and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). In particular, it explores the clinical and experimental evidence on the interplay between P. gingivalis and F. nucleatum in affecting oral and gastrointestinal carcinogenesis. P. gingivalis and F. nucleatum, which are recognized as keystone or bridging bacteria, were identified in multiple clinical studies simultaneously. The prevalence of both bacteria species correlated with cancer development progression, emphasizing the potential impact of the collaboration. Regrettably, there was insufficient experimental evidence to demonstrate the synergistic function. We further propose a hypothesis to elucidate the underlying mechanisms, offering a promising avenue for future research in this dynamic and evolving field.

Alcohol and Periodontal Disease: A Narrative Review

“…Individuals consuming a high quantity of alcohol relentlessly promote dysbiosis of the oral microbiome [78] and encourage periodontal pathogenic microbes' accumulation [79] and tooth pocket formation more than non-alcoholics [10]. Porphyromonas gingivalis and Fusobacteria nucleatum are the most notorious periodontal pathogenic microbes [80]. It has been reported that the accumulation of these pathogens ( P. gingivalis and F. nucleatum) was substantially higher among heavy alcoholic drinkers than in non or occasional alcoholics [28,81,82].…”

Effects of Oleanolic Acid Derived from Wine Pomace on Periodontopathic Bacterial Growth in Healthy Individuals: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Study

“…As teeth are required for eating and communication, tooth loss results in physical health risks, including undernutrition and sarcopenia, as well as social frailty [4][5][6]. Furthermore, these bacteria are associated with various systemic diseases [7,8], including heart disease [9], respiratory infections [10], diabetes [11], tumors [12], brain disease [13], and risk of poor pregnancy outcomes [14]. Therefore, they significantly impact physical and mental health.…”