The Role of Porphyromonas Gingivalis in Atherosclerosis

The Role of Porphyromonas Gingivalis in Atherosclerosis

Miniaci Performing Arts Center

Porphyromonas ginigivalis is one of the major pathogens primarily responsible for several periodontal diseases such as adult and juvenile periodontitis. Recent studies have found that a form of P. gingivalis has been recognized within the buildup of fatty material and cholesterol of atherosclerotic plaque located in blood vessels. This strongly suggests that P. gingivalis may also be linked to the origin and development of coronary heart disease. The purpose of this literature review project is to elucidate the possible roles that P. gingivalis has in cardiovascular disease by interpreting the procedures and conclusions of several studies on how the invasion of this periodontal pathogen can influence the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis. One study exhibited that the initial adherence between P. gingivalis and platelets may be assisted by the pathogen’s fimbriae and that the bacterium’s vesicles may contain platelet aggregation-inducing activity. Another study focused on the bacterium’s fimbriae and how it can activate the expression of endothelial surface-associated cell adhesion molecules through the analysis of fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) and confocal microscopy. A further study tested and illustrated the role that periodontitis exhibited in the accumulation of lipid deposition in New Zealand White rabbits by supplying a cholesterol-rich diet inducing periodontitis. This provided direct evidence that periodontitis can be an agent in the development of atherosclerosis.