Lablab bean gum reduces HPV load by 93% and kills oral cancer-linked bacteria, study finds
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A chewing gum derived from lablab bean protein reduced human papillomavirus (HPV) levels in saliva by up to 93% in laboratory tests, according to a study published in Scientific Reports. The gum also nearly eliminated two types of cancer-associated bacteria—P. gingivalis and F. nucleatum—while preserving beneficial oral microbes. The results are still preclinical, with human trials yet to begin.
HPV Reduction
Researchers created the gum using the FRIL protein extracted from lablab beans, known for natural antiviral properties. They collected saliva and oral rinse samples from head and neck cancer patients. The gum extract reduced the HPV viral load by 93% in saliva samples and by 80% in rinse samples. The findings appear in Scientific Reports.
Bacterial Elimination
An antimicrobial peptide added to the gum specifically attacked Porphyromonas gingivalis and Fusobacterium nucleatum—both implicated in cancer development. The treatment almost entirely eradicated these pathogens while sparing beneficial bacteria, a contrast to conventional radiotherapy which often disrupts the entire oral microbiome.
What's Next
The research team plans to advance to clinical trials to confirm the gum's efficacy and safety in humans. It remains unclear whether the gum can translate into a viable cancer treatment adjunct or a tool to reduce HPV transmission in real-world settings.
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Lablab bean gum reduces HPV load by 93% and kills oral cancer-linked bacteria, study finds
