Oral mucosal lipids are antibacterial against Porphyromonas gingivalis, induce ultrastructural damage, and alter bacterial lipid and protein compositions

Abstract

Researchers in the USA have identified five naturally occurring molecules that kill bacteria responsible for periodontal disease. The molecules are part of the diverse but sparsely documented countermeasures that the body uses to fight oral pathogens. Led by Philip Wertz and Carol Fischer of the University of Iowa, the researchers characterized the effects of naturally secreted lipids known as sphingoid bases and short-chain fatty acids, which are toxic to many bacteria, on Porphyromonas gingivalis, a key contributor to periodontitis. The two particularly potent molecules that they identified, phytosphingosine and sapienic acid, both killed this bacterium by inflicting severe damage to its outer membrane. Since these lipids are produced by the body and active at physiological concentrations, they may offer a safe and effective alternative to antibiotics for fighting P. gingivalis infection.

Keywords

antimicrobial lipid / fatty acid / Porphyromonas gingivalis / sphingoid base / sphingolipid / ultrastructure

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