By CAFMI From npj Aging (Open Access)
Role of Oleic Acid in Reducing Periodontal Inflammation
Periodontal disease, driven by the bacterium Porphyromonas gingivalis, is a common chronic inflammatory condition that worsens with age and is linked to systemic diseases such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. This study investigates how oleic acid (OA), a key component of the Mediterranean diet known for its anti-inflammatory and microbiome-modulating properties, affects the systemic consequences of periodontal infection in aged individuals. Using aged mouse models infected with P. gingivalis, the researchers found that dietary supplementation with OA significantly reduced local periodontal inflammation and bone loss. Beyond the oral cavity, OA decreased systemic inflammation markers and oxidative stress, suggesting it helps counteract the widespread effects of chronic infection in aging.
Enhancement of Stress Resistance and Microbiome Balance
The study revealed that oleic acid improved markers of oxidative stress and enhanced the body’s stress resistance mechanisms, including increased antioxidant enzyme activity. These effects contribute to protecting tissues from damage caused by inflammation and infection. Additionally, P. gingivalis infection disrupted the gut microbiome, reducing beneficial bacteria and increasing harmful species. Oleic acid supplementation reversed these changes by restoring microbial diversity and supporting beneficial gut bacteria, thereby promoting microbiome homeostasis. This dual action on stress pathways and microbiome balance highlights OA’s potential to mitigate systemic complications from periodontal disease, especially in the elderly where immune and microbial imbalances are common.
Clinical Implications for Primary Care Practice
For primary care clinicians, these findings emphasize the potential role of dietary interventions as adjunctive strategies for managing periodontal disease and its systemic effects in aging patients. Encouraging increased intake of oleic acid-rich foods, such as olive oil and nuts, may support periodontal health, reduce systemic inflammation, and improve overall resilience to chronic infections. While further clinical trials are needed, integrating nutritional guidance into routine care could offer a low-risk approach to complement traditional periodontal treatments. Ultimately, OA supplementation represents a promising avenue to enhance patient outcomes by addressing both local oral and systemic health in older adults.
Read The Original Publication Here
