From toothbrush to cardiologist - a shocking connection discovered

Oral Bacteria Attacks the Heart: Japanese Scientists Reveal Unexpected Cause of Arrhythmia

Researchers from Hiroshima University have made an alarming discovery: a common oral cavity bacterium Porphyromonas gingivalis, which causes gum inflammation, can penetrate the heart and trigger serious rhythm disturbances, including atrial fibrillation. The sensational research results have been published in the prestigious scientific journal Circulation.

In experiments on laboratory mice, scientists clearly demonstrated that this bacterium migrates to the left atrium, where it causes the development of fibrosis - the formation of scar tissue that disrupts the normal propagation of electrical signals in the heart. By the 18th week of the experiment, infected rodents showed a six-fold increase in the probability of developing arrhythmias compared to the control group.

To confirm the relevance of these findings for humans, researchers analyzed tissue samples from 68 patients with atrial fibrillation who had undergone cardiac surgery. The analysis confirmed the presence of P. gingivalis in heart tissues, with bacterial concentration significantly higher in patients with severe forms of periodontitis. Notably, this same bacterium has previously been found in the brain, liver, and other human organs.

Scientists come to an important conclusion: thorough oral hygiene and timely treatment of gum diseases can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications. In the future, the scientific team plans to develop collaboration between cardiologists and dentists for effective prevention of such conditions and to develop an interdisciplinary model for monitoring patients at risk.