Overview
- Researchers reported at the American Heart Association meeting that Porphyromonas gingivalis was found more often in human aortic valves with calcific disease than in other valves.
- In mouse experiments repeated exposure to P. gingivalis caused the bacteria to accumulate in aortic valves and increased calcium deposits in the valve leaflets.
- Preventive antibiotic treatment in mice lowered valve calcification, showing a proof-of-concept that targeting the bacteria can reduce disease in animals.
- Cell studies showed P. gingivalis activates the inflammatory protein IL-1β, and mice lacking IL-1β developed much less valve calcification, pointing to IL-1β as a possible drug target.
- The results are preliminary and not yet peer reviewed or proven in people, but they raise the possibility that better periodontal care or inflammation‑targeted therapies could one day help prevent a condition now treated only with valve replacement.