Researchers in Japan recently discovered that the unpleasant smell of bad breath may be due to the interaction between two common types of bacteria in the mouth. In a study published in mSystems, the research team from Osaka University looked into how these bacteria produce methyl mercaptan (CH3SH), a chemical compound known for causing a strong, unpleasant odor.
The team focused on two bacteria in particular: Fusobacterium nucleatum and Streptococcus gordonii. They found that when these two bacteria interact, they produce more CH3SH than they would on their own. This compound is produced when bacteria in the mouth break down particles of food, blood, and other substances. In most cases, the result is an unpleasant, sulfur-like smell.
To better study how these bacteria interact, the researchers created a special environment that could test bacteria interactions more realistically than before. This setup allowed them to observe how the bacteria affect each other, both directly (through physical contact) and indirectly (by releasing active substances).
The study revealed that S. gordonii releases a substance called ornithine. When F. nucleatum senses this ornithine, it increases its production of polyamine, a molecule that requires an amino acid called methionine. As F. nucleatum uses more methionine, it produces even higher amounts of CH3SH.
In short, this study highlights how the interaction between these two bacteria plays a major role in producing the compounds that cause bad breath. The researchers believe that by understanding this bacterial teamwork, they may be able to develop new ways to treat or prevent bad breath. Since bad breath can also be a sign of periodontal (gum) disease, managing it early might help people avoid more serious oral health issues.
Source: ScienceDaily