The oral-lung microbiome dysbiosis: Unravelling its role in implications for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) pathogenesis.

Abstract

Background: The impact of the oral flora on the composition of the microbiome in the lungs is substantial in both healthy and diseased conditions, contributing significantly to its intricacy. There is mounting evidence from microbiological research that suggests a major ecological relationship between periodontitis, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), and oral microecosystems. An association has been established between respiratory diseases and disruptions in the symbiotic equilibrium of the oral microbiome. This study aims to explore the intricate connections between oral health and lung microflora, particularly about the pathogenesis of COPD, and to highlight the implications for future research and clinical practice.

Materials and methods: Subgingival Plaque samples were collected from a total of 120 participants with 30 healthy Control (H group),30 Periodontitis with no COPD (P group), 30 COPD with periodontally healthy (COPD) and 30 individuals with COPD and Periodontitis (COPD+ P). All participants underwent evaluation of periodontal measurements like Pocket Depth (PD), Clinical loss of Attachment (CAL), Gingival Index (GI), and Plaque Index (PI) Bacterial DNA was extracted and quantified using Real-time polymerase chain reaction. Using the One-dimensional Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and post-analysis test for multiple comparisons, the mean values of all the clinical parameters were analyzed among the four participant groups. Using the Pearson Correlation coefficient, the parameters were correlated.

Results: Statistical relevant relation was shown among Probing Depth (PD), Clinical Loss of Attachment (CAL), Plaque Index (PI) and Gingival Index (GI) in the COPD+P group. Increased prevalence of Pa (Pseudomonas aeroginosa) seen among P group and COPD+P. A substantial inverse relationship was seen between the absolute levels of Pa, CAL, PI, and lung function measures (Fev1, Fev1/FVC).

Conclusion: The importance of maintaining dental health in the prevention and treatment of respiratory disorders is highlighted by the relationships that exist between the oral microecosystem, oral hygiene, and respiratory pathologies. There is substantial potential to decrease the occurrence of respiratory illnesses by practicing good oral care and strategically managing the balance of the oral microbial flora. Therefore, future research efforts should prioritize the characterization of the precise impact of the oral microbiota on pulmonary health and use this knowledge towards developing innovative preventive and treatment measures targeted at combating respiratory infections and related diseases.