They are one step closer to finding a solution.
The enigma surrounding the origins of bad breath has confounded many, but recent research conducted by Japanese scientists has provided valuable insights into its underlying causes and potential remedies.
Led by Takeshi Hara from Osaka University, the team uncovered a significant link between certain chemicals produced by oral bacteria and the development of malodorous breath. Specifically, they identified methyl mercaptan, also known as CH3SH, as a key culprit in the odorous process.
To delve deeper into this phenomenon, the researchers engineered a sophisticated laboratory setup known as a “co-culture system.” This system mimicked the intricate interactions between various bacterial species commonly found in the human mouth, allowing the team to observe how these microbes contribute to the production of foul-smelling compounds.
Their experiments yielded intriguing results, highlighting a pivotal relationship between two prominent oral bacteria: Streptococcus gordonii and Fusobacterium nucleatum. It was discovered that S. gordonii emits a chemical signal known as ornithine, which stimulates F. nucleatum to increase its production of CH3SH, thus exacerbating bad breath.
Masae Kuboniwa, a senior researcher involved in the study, expressed excitement over these findings, emphasizing the critical role played by F. nucleatum in the generation of malodorous compounds in response to signals from S. gordonii.
While the research is still in its nascent stages, the team is hopeful that their discoveries will pave the way for the development of effective treatments for bad breath. Moreover, given the established association between gum disease and halitosis, the insights gleaned from this study may also hold promise for mitigating or preventing this common oral affliction.
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