Depression Could Be Linked To Bacteria In Your Mouth: Study
Several studies have established the importance of a mix of microbes in the mouth, particularly bacteria, as it is connected to overall health. Now, new research has revealed that a lack of diversity in the bacteria in your mouth could be linked to depression. Depression is a complex mental health disorder characterised by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness and loss of interest in activities.
The latest study, led by researchers at NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing, found that a lower diversity of microbes in the mouth is associated with depression.
The mouth is home to a diverse community of microbes, including bacteria, viruses and fungi. These microorganisms play a crucial role in oral health and overall well-being.
"Having a better understanding of the relationship between the oral microbiome and depression could not only help us learn about the mechanisms underlying depression, but could contribute to the development of new biomarkers or treatments for mood disorders," Bei Wu, vice dean for research at NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing and the senior author of the study, said in an official release.
The study has been published in the journal BMC Oral Health.
To conduct the study, the researchers examined survey and biological data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The researchers analysed questionnaires that measured symptoms of depression with saliva samples by using data from more than 15,000 US adults aged 18 and older. The samples were collected between 2009 and 2012.
People with less diversity in their oral microbiomes were more likely to have symptoms of depression, the researchers found. Smoking, drinking alcohol, and dental care can change the makeup of bacteria in the mouth.
"It's possible that the oral microbiome influences depressive symptoms through inflammation or changes to the immune system. Conversely, depression can drive changes including dietary intake, poor oral hygiene, increased smoking and drinking, or the use of medications-all of which have the potential to alter the oral microbiome," said Wu.
"We need more research to understand the direction and underlying pathways of this relationship. This work is part of a broader effort to understand how the oral microbiome influences not only mental health, but also cognitive decline and the onset of dementia," she added.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
NDTV
10 hours ago
- NDTV
Depression Could Be Linked To Bacteria In Your Mouth: Study
Several studies have established the importance of a mix of microbes in the mouth, particularly bacteria, as it is connected to overall health. Now, new research has revealed that a lack of diversity in the bacteria in your mouth could be linked to depression. Depression is a complex mental health disorder characterised by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness and loss of interest in activities. The latest study, led by researchers at NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing, found that a lower diversity of microbes in the mouth is associated with depression. The mouth is home to a diverse community of microbes, including bacteria, viruses and fungi. These microorganisms play a crucial role in oral health and overall well-being. "Having a better understanding of the relationship between the oral microbiome and depression could not only help us learn about the mechanisms underlying depression, but could contribute to the development of new biomarkers or treatments for mood disorders," Bei Wu, vice dean for research at NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing and the senior author of the study, said in an official release. The study has been published in the journal BMC Oral Health. To conduct the study, the researchers examined survey and biological data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The researchers analysed questionnaires that measured symptoms of depression with saliva samples by using data from more than 15,000 US adults aged 18 and older. The samples were collected between 2009 and 2012. People with less diversity in their oral microbiomes were more likely to have symptoms of depression, the researchers found. Smoking, drinking alcohol, and dental care can change the makeup of bacteria in the mouth. "It's possible that the oral microbiome influences depressive symptoms through inflammation or changes to the immune system. Conversely, depression can drive changes including dietary intake, poor oral hygiene, increased smoking and drinking, or the use of medications-all of which have the potential to alter the oral microbiome," said Wu. "We need more research to understand the direction and underlying pathways of this relationship. This work is part of a broader effort to understand how the oral microbiome influences not only mental health, but also cognitive decline and the onset of dementia," she added.
Time of India
3 days ago
- Time of India
Regulating Hope: India's ART Act, Global Best Practices, and the Drive for Research Excellence
Assisted Reproductive Technology ( ART ) has transformed fertility care, bringing renewed hope to countless individuals and couples facing infertility. In response to the growing demand and complexity of ART services, India introduced the Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Act, 2021—an important step toward creating a safe, ethical, and accountable environment for reproductive treatments. By setting clear standards and oversight mechanisms, the Act lays a strong foundation for responsible practice. As the field continues to evolve, there is an opportunity to build on this progress by enabling a supportive ecosystem for research, innovation, and collaboration—ensuring that India remains responsive to emerging technologies while upholding the rights and well-being of all stakeholders. The ART Act: India's Regulatory Milestone The Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Act, 2021 was introduced to regulate and supervise ART clinics and banks across India, aiming to prevent misuse and ensure that all procedures are carried out in a safe and ethical manner. To achieve this, the Act established a comprehensive, multi-tiered regulatory framework comprising the National and State ART and Surrogacy Boards , a National Registry, and designated authorities at both the central and state levels. These bodies are responsible for overseeing the registration, functioning, and monitoring of ART clinics and banks, enforcing prescribed standards, and maintaining a central database to support transparency and informed policy-making. Among the Act's key provisions are the mandatory registration of all ART clinics and banks, the requirement for written informed consent from all parties involved, and strict protocols for record-keeping and reporting. Additionally, the Act regulates the sourcing, storage, and handling of gametes, explicitly prohibits sex selection and the commercial sale of gametes or embryos, and includes safeguards to protect the rights and welfare of children born through ART procedures. Together, these measures address a wide range of ethical, medical, and legal concerns, while fostering responsible advancements in the field of reproductive medicine. Global Perspectives United States The US model relies on a combination of federal oversight (primarily through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration) and state-level regulation. Accreditation by professional bodies such as the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) and the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART) ensures high standards of practice and transparent outcome reporting. However, there is significant variability in access and donor anonymity laws across states. Spain Spain is recognized for its progressive, patient-centric approach. The country's national law guarantees broad access to ART, including for single women and same-sex couples. Donor anonymity is strictly enforced, and a comprehensive national registry tracks all procedures and outcomes. Spain's robust oversight has made it a global destination for fertility care. China China's ART sector is tightly regulated by the government, with access limited to married couples. Clinics and banks operate under strict licensing, and there are clear restrictions on embryo storage and use. The centralized approach ensures uniform standards but limits individual choice. Japan Japan's regulatory environment is evolving, with guidelines issued by professional societies and increasing government involvement. Donor anonymity is maintained, and there is a cautious approach to expanding ART services, reflecting societal consensus and ethical considerations. India's take on Research and Innovation India's approach to research and innovation in assisted reproductive technology (ART), including emerging fields like genetic testing and embryo research is evolving. India's in vitro fertilization (IVF) industry is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by rising infertility rates, technological advancements, and increased awareness of fertility treatments. Guidelines and Regulation of ART-Related Research and ICMR India has established regulatory frameworks for ART through the Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Act, 2021, and the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021, which set out ethical and safety standards for ART practices. The ART Act includes strict guidelines on embryo use, prohibiting embryos from being used for purposes other than ART or research, and bans the transfer of gametes/embryos outside India for research or as a source of stem cells. Embryo donation for research is allowed only in specific cases and with written consent. Genetic testing and pre-implantation genetic testing (PGT) are mandated in certain cases to screen embryos for genetic diseases or when medically indicated, reflecting a cautious but proactive approach to integrating new technologies. However, research involving human germline gene therapy, reproductive cloning, and clinical trials with xenogeneic cells is not permitted. In vitro genome modification of embryos (not carried to term) is allowed, but only up to 14 days of fertilization. As of 2025, India does not have specific laws regulating human embryo gene editing. Instead, oversight is provided through guidelines issued by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). According to the National Guidelines for Stem Cell Research, genome editing—including methods like CRISPR-Cas9—on stem cells, germ-line cells, gametes, or embryos is allowed only for in vitro studies. Such research must be reviewed by the IC-SCR, IEC, and IBSC, and approved by the RCGM. Clinical application of germline gene editing is currently strictly prohibited. Need to Incentivize Research and Innovation There is broad recognition among policymakers and experts of the need to incentivize research and innovation in the medical field, especially in fertility and ART. The government has launched the National Policy on Research and Development and Innovation in Pharma-MedTech Sector and the PRIP (Promotion of Research and Innovation in Pharma MedTech Sector ) scheme, which aims to: Create a regulatory environment that facilitates innovation and research in product private and public investment in innovation through fiscal and non-fiscal industry-academia collaboration and support research in priority areas, including stem cell therapy and complex generics. Nitiz Murdia – Managing Director Indira IVF says, 'Experts and stakeholders in the fertility sector highlight the need for greater awareness, expanded access, insurance coverage, and government-backed initiatives to address India's fertility challenges and to support the growth of ART services and research'. References: This article is written by Nitiz Murdia, Managing Director at Indira IVF (DISCLAIMER: The views expressed are solely of the author and does not necessarily subscribe to it. shall not be responsible for any damage caused to any person/organisation directly or indirectly)
Hindustan Times
4 days ago
- Hindustan Times
Beyond the Numbers: Understanding the Long-Term Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
Management begins with measurement. This simple truth lies at the heart of Type 2 diabetes care. India is home to over 100 million people with diabetes¹, and many more with undiagnosed or prediabetic conditions.² While daily life with diabetes may seem manageable at first, the long-term risks associated with poorly managed Type 2 diabetes are far-reaching and often irreversible. The complications don't appear overnight. Instead, they develop gradually, fuelled by persistent fluctuations in blood sugar, delayed diagnosis, and inconsistent monitoring. That's why the right tests, taken at the right time, using devices that follow ISO standards, are critical to prevent lasting damage.³ ⁴ ⁵ Type 2 diabetes develops gradually. People usually do not have any observable signs in the beginning, and that is why it goes unnoticed for years. In the meantime, vital organs could already be incurring damage. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), long-term high blood glucose can lead to a range of serious complications, including cardiovascular disease (heart attack, stroke, atherosclerosis), neuropathy (nerve damage, especially in the limbs), nephropathy (kidney damage leading to kidney failure), retinopathy (vision loss and blindness), foot complications (ulcers, infections, potential amputations), cognitive decline (linked to Alzheimer's and vascular dementia). ⁶ ⁷ ⁸ ⁹ Many of these complications are progressive and permanent, and they are often diagnosed when the damage is already extensive. Monitoring on a regular basis (if recommended by your healthcare provider) could delay or prevent these complications. ¹⁰ ¹¹ They are both required but for distinct reasons. Periodic HbA1c measurement (every 3–6 months) and SMBG on a daily basis enable patients to grasp both the general trend and daily variations of their blood glucose, to make informed decisions about medication, food, and lifestyle. Without timely data, managing the disease becomes reactive rather than proactive, often after irreversible harm has occurred. The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is responsible for establishing precision standards for glucometer accuracy in order to ensure that patients can obtain the correct results. According to ISO 15197:2013, when your meter reads: It's not just about being compliant when you use ISO-certified equipment, it's being safe. Using glucometers that do not meet international standards can lead to inaccurate blood sugar readings, which pose serious health risks. Patients might unintentionally underdose or overdose medications, increasing the chances of hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia. Additionally, it is important to correlate SMBG results with HbA1c levels to ensure consistency between short and long-term blood glucose trends. Test timely. Choose wisely. Use standards-compliant devices. These three steps help prevent misdiagnosis and missed intervention opportunities. Even moderate blood sugar elevations over time can result in long-term harm. Here's how diabetes can impact different systems: People with uncontrolled Type 2 diabetes are twice as likely to suffer a heart attack or stroke, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). High glucose levels damage blood vessel linings and promote plaque build-up, leading to atherosclerosis. Diabetes is the leading cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and kidney failure worldwide. Damaged blood vessels in the kidneys impair filtration, causing protein to leak into urine — a sign that nephropathy is progressing. Long-standing and uncontrolled diabetes can lead to diabetic retinopathy, characterised by leaking or blocked blood vessels in the retina. If untreated, it may cause blindness. The ADA recommends annual dilated eye exams for all diabetics. Neuropathy can cause pain, numbness, and poor healing in the feet and legs. Combined with poor circulation, this raises the risk of non-healing ulcers and amputations. Uncontrolled Type 2 diabetes has been linked to a 60% increased risk of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease. Insulin resistance and vascular damage are thought to accelerate cognitive decline. Managing diabetes is not only about controlling blood sugar for today — it's about preventing the damage of tomorrow. Multiple long-term studies (such as the UKPDS and DCCT trials) have proven that consistent blood sugar control significantly reduces the risk of complications. When testing is infrequent or inaccurate, spikes and dips in blood sugar can go unnoticed — and these fluctuations contribute to something called glycaemic variability. High variability has been linked to increased risk of complications like the ones mentioned above. Despite rising numbers, many Indians still under-monitor their condition. Inadequate access to testing tools, misconceptions about the necessity of SMBG, and a general 'if I feel fine, I must be fine' attitude lead to late detection of complications. Public health experts emphasise that symptom-free does not mean risk-free. Damage to nerves, eyes, kidneys, and the heart can occur silently over years. That's why it is even more important to perform regular and timely blood sugar testing using reliable, standards-compliant devices. Type 2 diabetes is a manageable disease, but its long-term risks demand vigilance. Effective management starts with regular, structured and accurate measurement — and continues with lifestyle interventions, medication adherence, and periodic professional guidance. Test timely. Choose wisely. Readings that match ISO standards. This approach is not just good practice — it's life-saving. Note to the Reader: This article has been created by HT Brand Studio on behalf of the brand. The information does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a registered medical practitioner before making health decisions.
