# Effects of Oleanolic Acid Derived from Wine Pomace on Periodontopathic Bacterial Growth in Healthy Individuals: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Study

## TL;DR

This study shows that oleanolic acid from wine pomace reduces harmful bacteria in the mouth, which could help prevent periodontal disease.

## Contribution

The study demonstrates the dose-dependent effect of oleanolic acid on reducing periodontopathic bacteria in healthy individuals.

## Key findings

- Oleanolic acid significantly reduced Porphyromonas gingivalis in a dose-dependent manner.
- High-dose oleanolic acid also reduced Tannerella forsythia, though not statistically significant.
- The results suggest oleanolic acid may help maintain a healthy oral microbiome.

## Abstract

Periodontal disease is caused by oral pathogenic bacteria and is associated with systemic disease and frailty. Therefore, its prevention is crucial in extending healthy life expectancy. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of orally administered oleanolic acid, extracted from wine pomace, on periodontopathic bacterial growth in healthy individuals. In this randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel-group comparison study, 84 healthy adults were assigned to a placebo (n = 29), low-dose (n = 29, 9 mg oleanolic acid), or high-dose (n = 26, 27 mg oleanolic acid) groups. The number of oral bacteria in their saliva, collected before and 5 h after administration, was determined using the polymerase chain reaction-invader technique. The proportion of periodontopathic bacteria among the total oral bacteria in the saliva was calculated. Oleanolic acid significantly decreased the proportion of Porphyromonas gingivalis among the total oral bacteria in a dose-dependent manner (p = 0.005 (low-dose) and p = 0.003 (high-dose) vs. placebo, Williams’ test). Moreover, high-dose oleanolic acid decreased the proportion of Tannerella forsythia (p = 0.064 vs. placebo, Williams’ test). Periodontopathic bacteria are closely associated with the development and progression of periodontal disease; thus, the continuous daily intake of oleanolic acid derived from pomace may be helpful in maintaining a healthy oral microbiome by controlling the proportion of periodontopathic bacteria.