Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have developed a chewing gum that significantly lowers levels of human papillomavirus (HPV) and two bacteria associated with head and neck cancers.
Led by Professor Henry Daniell, the team tested the gum on saliva and mouth samples from patients diagnosed with head and neck cancer. The gum reduced HPV presence by 93% in saliva and by 80% in oral samples.
The gum incorporates a natural protein derived from lablab beans, known for its antiviral properties. This protein was combined with an additional agent to target the harmful bacteria, bringing their levels close to zero after just one dose.
Key findings include:
- Effective reduction of HPV and cancer-linked bacteria in oral samples.
- Preservation of beneficial oral bacteria, unlike some conventional cancer treatments.
- Potential use as an adjunct therapy alongside existing cancer treatments or as a preventive measure to limit infection spread.
Daniell highlighted the rising global incidence of oropharyngeal cancers linked to HPV and noted that infections involving the targeted bacteria can worsen patient outcomes. While promising, the researchers caution that the gum is not a cure or preventive for cancer itself but could fill treatment gaps, particularly given the aggressive nature of head and neck cancers and challenges in early detection.
Further clinical trials are planned to explore the gum’s role as a supplementary treatment or prophylactic tool.
