Bacteria in Arteries Linked to Plaque Rupture and Heart Attacks, New Research Suggests
Tampere, Finland – A new study from the University of Tampere indicates a potential link between bacterial infection within arterial plaque and the risk of heart attack. Researchers have discovered DNA from several oral bacteria present in atherosclerotic plaque,suggesting thes microorganisms may contribute to plaque instability and rupture,ultimately leading to cardiac events.
For years, a connection between bacteria and coronary artery disease has been suspected, but definitive evidence has been lacking. This research offers a compelling step forward, identifying the physical presence of bacterial DNA within the dangerous buildup in arteries. The findings, published recently, could pave the way for novel preventative and treatment strategies for heart disease, a leading cause of death globally.
Pekka Karhunen, lead author of the study, explains that the bacteria typically reside dormant within biofilms inside the plaque. However,secondary infections – such as viral illnesses – may “wake up” the bacteria,triggering an immune response and subsequent inflammation that weakens the plaque structure. “These bacteria may require a ‘double whammy’ to cause heart disease,” Karhunen stated.
When plaque ruptures, it can form blood clots that obstruct blood flow, resulting in a heart attack. Researchers caution that the study does not yet establish a definitive causal relationship, but suggest potential future treatments could include short-term antibiotic therapy for heart attack patients with evidence of bacterial involvement, potentially improving patient outcomes. The term “prognosis,” as defined in the study, refers to estimating a patient’s likely future health status based on their current condition and treatment.
For more details, visit the Free Health Network: https://health.ltn.com.tw/ and the study’s associated Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/healthLTN/.