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Gum Disease Bacteria Linked to Breast Cancer Spread
20 Mar
Summary
- Oral bacteria from gum disease can invade breast tissue.
- This bacterium accelerates tumor growth and DNA damage.
- It may increase cancer cell aggressiveness and therapy resistance.
A concerning link has been identified between oral health and breast cancer progression. Researchers discovered that a bacterium prevalent in gum disease can migrate from the mouth to breast tissue.
This oral pathogen has been shown to cause DNA damage and promote the growth and spread of existing tumors. It may also enhance cancer cell aggression and reduce sensitivity to therapies.
The study utilized mouse models and human breast cancer cells to illustrate these effects. Introducing the bacterium into breast ducts led to noncancerous changes, inflammation, and DNA damage.
Furthermore, the research pinpointed a biological mechanism where the bacterium damages cellular DNA, activating error-prone repair systems. This process can introduce mutations and increase a protein linked to tumor movement and treatment resistance.
Cells with BRCA1 mutations, common in some breast cancers, were found to be more susceptible. While more research is needed, the findings suggest that maintaining good oral hygiene could be relevant to breast cancer risk.
