Oral Health and Alzheimer’s: Scientific Insights and Viome’s Approach

• Research has identified Porphyromonas gingivalis, a bacteria linked to gum disease, in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients, suggesting a potential connection between oral health and neurodegeneration.

• Cortexyme Inc.’s study found that P. gingivalis can lead to Alzheimer’s-related brain changes in mice, and an experimental drug targeting bacterial toxins showed cognitive improvement in early trials.

• Viome is leveraging microbiome analysis and RNA sequencing to provide personalized oral health solutions, aiming to reduce harmful bacteria and chronic inflammation linked to Alzheimer’s.

Recent research has unveiled a surprising potential factor in the development of Alzheimer’s disease: gum disease. A study has confirmed that Porphyromonas gingivalis, the bacteria responsible for periodontitis, is present in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients. While scientists are still debating whether the bacteria directly cause the disease or are simply associated with it, the findings add to the growing body of evidence that microbial infections may play a significant role in neurodegenerative conditions.

The Study and Its Implications

The research, conducted by Cortexyme Inc., found that P. gingivalis was present in the brains of deceased Alzheimer’s patients and even in the spinal fluid of living individuals with the disease. The study also demonstrated that in mice, infection with P. gingivalis led to hallmark Alzheimer’s-related brain changes, such as neuron death and an increase in the beta-amyloid protein. Furthermore, an experimental drug that targeted bacterial toxins (gingipains) reduced bacterial presence in the brain and showed signs of improving cognitive function in initial human trials. Cortexyme’s clinical trials are ongoing, with hopes that targeting gingipains could lead to an effective Alzheimer’s treatment.

Although some experts remain skeptical that P. gingivalis is the root cause of Alzheimer’s, many agree that oral health plays a crucial role in brain health. Nearly 50% of U.S. adults have gum disease, which could make this potential connection particularly significant. As cases of Alzheimer’s continue to rise, prioritizing oral health as a preventive measure becomes increasingly relevant.

Viome’s Role in Combating Alzheimer’s Through Oral Health

Viome, a leading health and wellness company specializing in microbiome analysis, uses advanced technology to explore the link between oral and gut health and overall well-being. Using artificial intelligence and RNA sequencing, Viome analyzes individual microbiomes to deliver personalized health recommendations. I first encountered their ringing the alarm bells at a MedTech fund launch in Palo Alto, where they highlighted numerous reasons why oral health is crucial to overall health.

In addressing the potential role of P. gingivalis in Alzheimer’s, Viome has developed oral microbiome testing kits that help detect harmful bacteria in the mouth, including those linked to gum disease and neurodegeneration. By identifying imbalances in the oral microbiome, Viome provides actionable insights, including dietary changes, probiotic recommendations, and targeted supplements to reduce harmful bacteria and promote beneficial microbes.

Additionally, Viome’s research focuses on reducing chronic inflammation—a key factor in Alzheimer’s progression—by optimizing gut and oral microbiota. Since inflammation has been strongly linked to neurodegenerative diseases, Viome’s approach aims to address the root causes rather than just the symptoms. Unlike traditional dental checkups, Viome’s microbiome testing provides a deeper, more personalized look at an individual’s unique bacterial composition and how it may impact long-term health.

Viome operates in the microbiome health and wellness space, competing with several companies that offer microbiome analysis and personalized health recommendations. Thryve (now Ombre) and Biohm Health focus on gut microbiome testing using DNA sequencing of stool samples, with Biohm also analyzing fungi and offering probiotic supplements. DayTwo specializes in microbiome-based nutrition for metabolic health, using AI-driven insights to recommend personalized meal plans for diabetes management.

Zoe takes a broader approach, combining microbiome testing with blood sugar and fat analysis to optimize metabolic health through diet. Floré by Sun Genomics offers whole-genome sequencing and custom-made probiotics tailored to an individual’s microbiome profile, while Psomagen provides microbiome, genetic, and epigenetic testing for comprehensive health insights. Unlike its competitors, Viome differentiates itself by using RNA sequencing rather than DNA sequencing and focusing on both oral and gut microbiomes to provide a more holistic approach to personalized health.

The Future of Alzheimer’s Prevention

As more studies explore the connection between oral health and Alzheimer’s, it is becoming clear that taking care of one’s mouth is not just about preventing cavities—it could be a crucial factor in long-term brain health. Companies like Viome are paving the way for innovative, science-backed solutions that empower individuals to take control of their health and potentially reduce their risk of neurodegenerative diseases.

Dr. Edward Zuckerberg, Chief Dental Officer at Viome, notes, "While P. gingivalis itself can't cross the blood-brain barrier, these outer membrane vesicles carrying toxic proteins called gingipains are able to cross the blood-brain barrier. Once in the brain, they interfere with neuronal transmission, which is a driver of dementia."

While the debate over the exact role of P. gingivalis in Alzheimer’s continues, one thing remains certain: prioritizing oral hygiene through regular brushing, flossing, a balanced diet, and microbiome health management may be one of the simplest yet most effective ways to protect the brain. With cutting-edge research and personalized health solutions, the future of Alzheimer’s prevention looks increasingly promising.

The link between oral health and Alzheimer’s disease is opening up exciting investment opportunities, with companies using advanced microbiome analysis to create personalized solutions that could help reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases. As research continues to grow, businesses focused on improving both oral and gut health are well-positioned to lead the way in preventive care, making them a strong bet in a rapidly expanding market.