Plaque Caused By Bacteria Can Trigger Heart Attack

London, A bacteria that causes plaque can escape from mouth into the bloodstream and increase the risk of heart attack, according to a new study which emphasizes the need for regular brushing and flossing.

Researchers at the University of Bristol and the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI), have found that if not kept in check the oral bacteria, called Streptococcus, can easily enter into the bloodstream.

"Poor dental hygiene can lead to bleeding gums, providing bacteria with an escape route into the bloodstream, where they can initiate blood clots leading to heart disease," said Professor Howard Jenkinson from the University of Bristol.
Once let loose in the bloodstream, the bugs can use a protein on their surface, called PadA, as a weapon to force platelets in the blood to bind together and form clots.

Inducing blood clots is a selfish trick used by bacteria, Professor Jenkinson told the Society for General Microbiology''s autumn meeting in Nottingham.

He said: "When the platelets clump together they completely encase the bacteria. This provides a protective cover not only from the immune system, but also from antibiotics that might be used to treat infection."

"Unfortunately, as well as helping out the bacteria, platelet clumping can cause small blood clots, growths on the heart valves (endocarditis), or inflammation of blood vessels that can block the blood supply to the heart and brain."

The research, Professor Jenkinson said, highlights a very important public health message.

"People need to be aware that as well keeping a check on their diet, blood pressure, cholesterol and fitness levels, they also need to maintain good dental hygiene to minimize their risk of heart problems," he said.

The researchers are now using a brand-new blood flow model, developed by Dr Steve Kerrigan at the RCSI, School of Pharmacy, Dublin, that mimics conditions in the human circulatory system.

"We are currently investigating how the platelet-activating function of PadA can be blocked. This could eventually lead to new treatments for cardiovascular disease which is the biggest killer in the developed world," Professor Jenkinson added.

source: in.msn