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New study reveals key role of bacterial vesicles in periodontitis development
Last reviewed: 09.08.2025
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Scientists from the Institute of Systems Biomedicine and the Hospital of Stomatology of Peking University presented a review demonstrating that outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) of Gram-negative bacteria play a central role in the mechanisms of the onset and progression of periodontitis. The work was published in Frontiers in Microbiology.
What are OMVs and why are they important?
OMVs are nanoparticles actively secreted by pathogenic oral bacteria. Previously, periodontitis was associated primarily with bacterial biofilms and their accumulation in the gingival sulcus. New data show that OMVs can act independently of the presence of living bacterial cells, delivering pro-inflammatory and destructive molecules to the gum tissue.
The main "loaders" of inflammation
- Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) and proteases: disrupt intercellular connections and stimulate the production of proinflammatory cytokines.
- Bacterial DNA and toxins: activate cellular stress and immune response pathways, promoting chronic inflammation.
- Biofilm strengthening and antibiotic resistance: OMVs stimulate the formation of dense microbial communities and accelerate the horizontal transfer of resistance genes.
Mechanisms of interaction with host tissues
The review highlights several pathways through which OMVs influence periodontitis progression:
- Activation of proinflammatory signaling cascades in gingival epithelial cells and fibroblasts.
- Evasion of immune surveillance: OMVs suppress the phagocytic activity of macrophages and disrupt antigen presentation.
- Modulation of the composition of polymicrobial communities, which creates a “vicious circle” of repeated inflammation and tissue destruction.
Gaps in knowledge and future directions
The authors point out that it is not yet clear enough:
- Which host receptors recognize OMVs and trigger a response?
- How do vesicles spread from biofilm foci into the deep layers of dental tissues?
- To what extent are OMVs involved in systemic complications of periodontitis, such as increased risk of cardiovascular disease?
Promising treatment strategies
Scientists propose several new approaches to combat periodontitis at the OMV level:
- Antibodies or vaccines against key proteins on the surface of OMVs, blocking interaction with host cells.
- Vesicle biogenesis inhibitors are molecules that prevent their formation in bacteria.
- Sorbents or nanomaterials that bind OMVs in the oral cavity and remove them with the saliva flow.
Conclusion
This study opens a “second wind” in understanding the pathogenesis of periodontitis, shifting the focus from the bacteria themselves to their extracellular vesicles. Targeting OMVs may be the next step in developing effective therapies that can not only suppress bacteria but also neutralize their inflammatory “messengers.”