Research Question and Objective
Oral diseases, such as dental caries and periodontitis, are not only major contributors to global oral health burden but are also strongly associated with various systemic comorbidities including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. While genetic and environmental factors are known to play a role, the underlying mechanisms linking oral diseases with systemic conditions remain poorly understood. This study aims to leverage the comprehensive datasets of the UK Biobank to:
!Identify novel biomarkers and modifiable risk factors through integrated multi-omics (genomics, proteomics, metabolomics), environmental, and lifestyle analyses
!Clarify causal relationships between oral diseases, systemic comorbidities, and their shared molecular mechanisms
!Develop machine learning models for early risk prediction and personalized intervention strategies
Scientific Rationale
Circulating proteins, metabolites, and imaging biomarkers provide valuable insights into the molecular pathways linking oral health with systemic diseases. Evidence suggests that oral microbiota dysbiosis, chronic inflammation, and immune dysfunction may serve as biological bridges between oral and systemic health. Environmental factors-such as smoking, air pollution, and dietary patterns-as well as lifestyle behaviors-such as physical activity and oral hygiene-may further modulate these pathways.
However, most current studies focus on isolated omics layers or environmental exposures, without considering the complex interplay between oral diseases and systemic conditions. By integrating genomic, proteomic, and metabolomic data with high-resolution environmental exposure records and objectively measured lifestyle metrics (e.g., accelerometer-derived physical activity), this research will uncover novel biological pathways, refine risk stratification, and inform precision prevention and treatment strategies.
