Can bioengineered chewing gum help prevent oral, head and neck cancers? Pa. researchers are hopeful

Scientists at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine have created a bioengineered chewing gum designed to prevent oral, head, and neck cancers. The gum incorporates a natural antiviral protein called FRIL, derived from hyacinth beans (Lablab purpurpeus), alongside an antimicrobial peptide called protegrin. This combination targets harmful viruses like HPV and bacteria such as *Porphyromonas gingivalis* and *Fusobacterium nucleatum*, all linked to cancer development. The gum works by aggregating virus particles, preventing them from infecting human cells. Early lab tests show it reduces HPV viral load in saliva by 93% and eliminates nearly all targeted bacteria when used with the antimicrobial peptide. Researchers aim to investigate its potential as both a preventive tool and a treatment to stop cancerous lesions from spreading. The gum is produced by growing hyacinth beans in a lab, converting them into powder, and manufacturing it into a flavored, elastic chewing gum. Dr. Henry Daniell, the lead researcher, envisions it as an affordable, over-the-counter product to reduce cancer risks before exposure to harmful pathogens. A clinical trial at Penn Medicine will further test the gum’s effectiveness against HPV, with hopes it could also protect intimate partners of cancer patients from transmission. Co-investigator Dr. Marc Herschel notes reducing viral loads could improve outcomes for future patients with cancerous lesions. Beyond cancer prevention, Daniell suggests broader applications, including protecting astronauts from infections in space or preventing disease spread in high-risk environments. The gum’s development marks a potential breakthrough in oral health and cancer research.