Proteomics of Periodontitis-Associated Bacteria and Its Link to Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Contemporaneous Review.

Abstract

<h4>Introduction and aims</h4>Periodontitis, a chronic inflammatory disease of the periodontium, causes gingival inflammation and bone loss. Meanwhile, oral cancer synonymously known as oral squamous cell carcinoma is characterised by uncontrolled cell growth in the oral cavity. Both conditions can compromise oral function and reduce quality of life. Oral bacteria are implicated in the link between periodontitis and oral squamous cell carcinoma, but the specific molecular alterations and pathways involved in carcinogenesis are yet to be elucidated. Hence, this review aimed to explore the role of proteomes of known oral bacteria in carcinogenesis at the molecular level.<h4>Methods</h4>Relevant articles were searched through electronic databases at MEDLINE/Pubmed, EBSCOHost and Web of Science from 2017 to 2025.<h4>Results</h4>Three periodontal pathogens, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Fusobacterium nucleatum and Treponema denticola, are involved in cancer development. They express lipopolysaccharide, gingipain, FimA, mfa1, outer membrane vesicles, nucleoside disphosphate kinase, FadA and Treponema denticola chymotrypsin-like protease. They cause cancer via 5 different mechanisms: inflammation, inhibition of apoptosis, production of carcinogenic substances, cellular proliferation and cellular invasion. These occur alongside their ability to evade and escape host immune responses.<h4>Conclusion</h4>Periodontitis and oral squamous cell carcinoma are linked through periodontal pathogens, which express various proteins. This highlights the importance of maintaining periodontal health to reduce the risk of oral squamous cell carcinoma and improve disease outcomes.<h4>Clinical relevance</h4>Understanding how periodontal pathogens contribute to oral squamous cell carcinoma reinforces the need for early diagnosis and effective management of periodontitis. The identified bacterial proteins can serve as early diagnostic biomarkers for oral squamous cell carcinoma. Furthermore, clinicians should consider periodontal health not only for preserving dentition but also as part of cancer prevention strategies.