Bioengineered chewing gum may offer a way to fight HPV and other microbes
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A bioengineered bean gum reduced HPV by 93% and nearly eliminated two cancer-linked bacteria.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania developed a chewing gum from lablab beans containing the antiviral protein FRIL and the antimicrobial peptide protegrin. In tests on oral samples from head and neck cancer patients, the gum lowered HPV levels by 93% in saliva and 80% in oral rinse, and brought levels of Porphyromonas gingivalis and Fusobacterium nucleatum near zero. Beneficial mouth bacteria were preserved, unlike with radiation therapy. The gum could serve as an adjunct cancer therapy or preventive measure.
What commenters are saying
Commenters noted the gum is made from lablab beans, not plastic, countering concerns about microplastics. They drew comparisons to xylitol gum, which reduces cavity-causing bacteria. Mastic gum was mentioned as a jaw-exercise alternative. A correction clarified that chewing gum possession is legal in Singapore, though commercial sale is banned. Some questioned the net health benefit and asked about availability.