May 4, 2017

Science Daily: Gum Disease Facilitates Rheumatoid Arthritis

Gum Disease contributes to Rheumatoid Arthritis

 

In an article published in September of 2013, Science Daily reported on a study conducted by a team of scientists from the European Union’s Gums and Joints project that uncovered how the bacterium responsible for periodontal disease worsens rheumatoid arthritis by leading to earlier onset, faster progression, and greater severity of the disease.

“The scientists found that P. gingivalis produces a unique enzyme, peptidy larginine deiminanse (PAD) which then enhances collagen-induced arthritis (CIA), a form of arthritis similar to RA produced in the lab. PAD changes residues of certain proteins into citrulline, and the body recognizes citullinated proteins as intruders, leading to an immune attack. In RA patients, the subsequent result is chronic inflammation responsible for bone and cartilage destruction within the joints.”

To read the sotry online, go to: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/09/130912203327.htm

To download the article, click HERE.