A new breakthrough from Penn Dental Medicine highlights how innovation can take unexpected forms while addressing some of the most complex challenges in health care. Researchers have developed a bioengineered chewing gum designed to reduce harmful microbes linked to oral cancer, offering a promising new approach to prevention and treatment.
Led by Dr. Henry Daniell, the research focuses on targeting three key microbes associated with head and neck cancers, including HPV and two types of harmful bacteria. In early studies, the chewing gum significantly reduced these cancer linked microbes while preserving the beneficial bacteria that support oral health.
Based at Pennovation Works, where the team operates its greenhouse and research efforts, this work reflects the power of combining advanced science with a collaborative innovation environment.
The results are especially notable given the limited progress of many recent cancer therapies. As Daniell noted, “most recently approved cancer drugs have not significantly improved quality of life or five year survival rates,” underscoring the urgent need for new, more effective approaches.
By combining bioengineering with a simple, accessible delivery method, this work points to a future where treatment and prevention can be both more targeted and more widely available. The research also opens the door to potential use cases beyond treatment, including reducing transmission of cancer linked infections.
Read more about Penn Dental's research.
