Abstract
Porphyromonas gingivalis is a well-known periodontal pathogen that has also been linked to systemic diseases. In this study, our results revealed that P. gingivalis exacerbated inflammation, as indicated by weight loss, decreased colon length, and increased colonic tissue inflammation. Furthermore, P. gingivalis increased the population of Th17 cells in the spleen and upregulated the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines in mice. Additionally, P. gingivalis aggravated the gut microbiota dysbiosis by reducing the beneficial bacteria like S24-7. In addition, we discovered that paeoniflorin, a widely recognized biologically active phytochemical, had the potential to mitigate the exacerbated inflammation caused by P. gingivalis. Specifically, paeoniflorin treatment rebalanced immune cell populations, reduced the levels of inflammatory cytokines, and reshaped the composition of the gut microbiota. In summary, our findings suggest that paeoniflorin holds promise as a potential therapeutic agent for alleviating the inflammatory effects induced by P. gingivalis.IMPORTANCEPorphyromonas gingivalis may reach the gastrointestinal tract and establish colonization. By investigating its effects on mice with mild intestinal inflammation, this study highlights a concerning link between oral pathogens and broader health implications. P. gingivalis not only exacerbates inflammation, causing weight loss and colonic tissue damage, but also induces significant changes in the gut microbiota. The identification of paeoniflorin as a potential therapeutic agent adds a promising dimension to addressing these issues. Paeoniflorin shows promise in rebalancing immune responses, reducing inflammation, and reshaping the gut microbiota. This study not only deepens our understanding of the intricate connections between oral and systemic health but also suggests a potential avenue for developing therapeutic strategies to mitigate the impact of P. gingivalis on overall well-being.