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The active compound \u2014 guanidinoethylbenzylamino imidazopyridine acetate \u2014 selectively blocks the growth of harmful bacteria such as Porphyromonas gingivalis. (iStock)<\/p>\nThe active compound \u2014 guanidinoethylbenzylamino imidazopyridine acetate \u2014 selectively blocks the growth of harmful bacteria such as Porphyromonas gingivalis. (iStock)<\/p>\n
Researchers in Germany have developed a targeted approach<\/a> to preventing periodontitis by selectively inhibiting disease-causing bacteria while preserving the healthy oral microbiome.<\/p>\n Scientists at the Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology (IZI) identified a compound that blocks the growth of key periodontal pathogens such as Porphyromonas gingivalis, without eliminating beneficial bacteria that maintain microbial balance in the mouth.<\/p>\n \u201cRather than simply killing gingivitis pathogens, it inhibits their growth,\u201d said Stephan Schilling, head of molecular drug biochemistry and therapy development at Fraunhofer IZI, noting the strategy supports long-term microbial stability.<\/p>\n Periodontitis affects a significant portion of the global population and has been linked to systemic conditions including diabetes, cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer\u2019s disease. The oral microbiome itself contains more than 700 bacterial species, though only a small subset contributes to disease.<\/p>\n Related: Selective toothpaste therapy: The therapeutic value of various toothpaste ingredients<\/a><\/p>\n Related: Scientists explore using hair keratin in toothpaste to repair tooth enamel<\/a><\/p>\n