Bioengineered Chewing Gum: A Novel Approach to Combat Oral Cancer

Researchers led by Henry Daniell at the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Dental Medicine have developed a bioengineered chewing gum that significantly reduces the levels of three microbes associated with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). This cancer, which arises in the mucosal linings of the mouth and throat, poses a serious health challenge due to its aggressive nature and poor prognosis when diagnosed late. The study, recently published in *Scientific Reports*, highlights the gum's potential as an effective and affordable adjunct therapy for HNSCC.

Bioengineered Chewing Gum: A New Weapon Against Oral CancerFighting oral cancer with bioengineered chewing gum

The research builds on previous work involving a chewing gum made from lablab beans, which contains the antiviral protein FRIL. The study focused on three key microorganisms: human papilloma virus (HPV), Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg), and Fusobacterium nucleatum (Fn). These microbes are not merely incidental but are actively involved in the progression of HNSCC. Daniell's team found that extracts from the bioengineered gum reduced HPV levels by 93% in saliva and 80% in oral rinse samples. Furthermore, when the gum was enhanced with protegrin, an antimicrobial peptide, Pg and Fn levels dropped to nearly undetectable amounts after a single dose.

Bioengineered Chewing Gum: A New Weapon Against Oral CancerFighting oral cancer with bioengineered chewing gum

The findings suggest that this gum could serve as a non-invasive, patient-friendly adjunct therapy that targets microbial contributors to cancer progression. Unlike conventional treatments such as radiation, which can harm beneficial oral bacteria, the bioengineered gum selectively reduces harmful microbes while preserving the oral microbiome. This preservation is crucial for maintaining oral health and immunity.

Bioengineered Chewing Gum: A New Weapon Against Oral Cancer

The study involved a multidisciplinary collaboration among Penn Dental Medicine, the University of Kansas Medical Center, UCLA, and the Veterans Administration Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System. Funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, and the National Cancer Institute underscores the commitment to advancing innovative cancer therapies.

Fighting oral cancer with bioengineered chewing gum

While the results are promising, further clinical trials are necessary to validate the effectiveness of the bioengineered gum in broader patient populations. Critics may point to the need for more extensive research to ensure that these findings translate into practical treatments. Daniell advocates for advancing this technology into human trials, emphasizing its potential as both an adjunct therapy and a preventive measure for at-risk populations.

Bioengineered Chewing Gum: A New Weapon Against Oral Cancer

• “The global increase in oropharyngeal cancer is linked to HPV infection,” — Henry Daniell, W.D. Miller Professor, University of Pennsylvania

Fighting oral cancer with bioengineered chewing gum

• “Our findings support the value of advancing these therapies to clinical trials as adjuvants with current treatments or as prophylaxis to prevent infection and transmission.” — Henry Daniell

Fighting oral cancer with bioengineered chewing gum

The development of this bioengineered chewing gum represents a significant step forward in the fight against oral cancer, merging scientific innovation with practical patient care. As research progresses, it holds the promise of more effective, less toxic cancer prevention and management strategies.

Bioengineered Chewing Gum: A New Weapon Against Oral Cancer