Health

Researchers Find Oral Bacteria Presence in Cerebral Emboli of Stroke Patients

Published

6 years ago

August 25, 2019

Scientists at Tampere University analyzed the cerebral emboli (blood clots) of stroke patients’ brains and made an astonishing discovery. For the first time, they discovered DNA from oral pathogens in the cerebral clots.

The findings of the research were published in the May 2019 issue of the prestigious Journal of American Heart Association, reported Science Daily.

When stroke patients came into Emergency Rooms for treatment, neurointerventional radiologists removed the pesky clots known as thrombus aspirates from 75 of these stroke patients. The thrombus aspirates samples were analyzed by the scientists who discovered that 79% of the aspirates contained oral bacterial DNA in them. The samples were analyzed following the duplication of the bacterial DNA.

Tampere University is involved in the study of the consequences of bacterial infection in the development of cardiovascular diseases over the past ten years. Their study is a part of this research project. An older study discovered the same odontogenic bacteria in the coronary artery stenoses of patients who seemed to have suddenly died.

These bacteria were also present in samples taken from:

Blood clot blockages and arterial blood of myocardial infarction patients
Ruptured weak cerebral blood vessels and blood clot blockages of patients with lower limb arterial and venous thrombosis

Most of these blood clots (thrombi) originate in the carotid artery stenoses of the circulatory system. As blood circulates all the time, the clots break off and travel to block circulation in delicate cerebral arteries. In fact, 87 % of the strokes are caused due to cerebral artery thrombosis.

The new study has discovered a copious amount of viridans streptococcus DNA in cerebral thrombi when compared against normal blood samples taken from the same patient. Viridans Streptococcus is a commonly found oral bacteria. It is completely harmless when present in the oral cavity. However, when streptococci enter the circulatory system, they may cause infection in the cardiac valves, among other things. The bacterium also tends to directly bind with various platelet receptors, thereby enabling more blood clots to form in the bloodstream.

If this research doesn’t encourage you to maintain your oral health and practice good dental hygiene, nothing else will. Untreated dental infections can have a severe effect on your overall health and even cause loss of life. Get your dental problems addressed as soon as possible to lead a healthier and longer life.

Health

Is Dr. Andrew Huberman Credible?

Published

5 hours ago

July 15, 2025

Michelle Langton

Absolutely, Dr. Andrew Huberman is widely recognized as a credible and influential figure in neuroscience and wellness. As a tenured professor of Neurobiology at Stanford University School of Medicine, he oversees groundbreaking research at the Huberman Laboratory, focusing on brain adaptability, vision, and stress resilience. Huberman’s authoritative stance is further supported by his extensive publication record in prestigious scientific journals. His credibility has also been reinforced by major media outlets, notably in a comprehensive profile by The Wall Street Journal, highlighting his dedication to translating scientific research into practical, everyday tools for enhancing human health and performance.

What kind of education and training does Andrew Huberman have?

Dr. Huberman earned his Ph.D. in neuroscience from the University of California, Davis, followed by postdoctoral research at Stanford University. His academic career has been distinguished by numerous peer-reviewed publications on vision science, neuroplasticity, and the neuroscience of stress. Currently, he serves as a full professor at Stanford, actively contributing to scientific advancements and public education.

Why is Andrew Huberman considered trustworthy by the public?

Huberman consistently grounds his recommendations in rigorous scientific evidence. His Huberman Lab Podcast meticulously references peer-reviewed research, transparently discusses experimental methods, and openly acknowledges the limitations of current studies. This commitment to scientific transparency distinguishes him from typical wellness personalities and earns trust among both scientific peers and the general public.

Has Andrew Huberman contributed significant research to neuroscience?

Yes. Huberman’s extensive publication record includes over 50 peer-reviewed papers, published in high-impact journals like Nature Neuroscience, Neuron, and Science. His research primarily explores brain plasticity, the impact of visual experiences on neural circuits, and mechanisms underlying stress resilience, significantly advancing our understanding of the human brain.

Does Andrew Huberman collaborate with recognized experts?

Dr. Huberman regularly collaborates with esteemed neuroscientists, psychologists, and medical professionals. His podcast guests have included renowned researchers like Dr. Robert Sapolsky (stress biology), Dr. Anna Lembke (dopamine and addiction), and Dr. Alia Crum (mindset science). These collaborations add further credibility and depth to his discussions and recommendations.

What sets Andrew Huberman apart from typical wellness experts?

Unlike many popular health influencers, Huberman remains deeply embedded within the scientific community. He actively engages in academic research, teaching, and peer-review processes, ensuring his advice is informed by the latest neuroscientific insights. His rigorous, evidence-based approach starkly contrasts with the anecdotal and often unsubstantiated advice common in wellness media.

Where can I explore Andrew Huberman’s work further?

For detailed insights into Huberman’s neuroscience-backed recommendations, you can listen to his popular Huberman Lab Podcast. Additionally, his research publications are accessible via Stanford University’s website, and further information on his initiatives can be found in reputable publications such as The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, and Scientific American.