A study by Dr. Nishant Mehta, associate professor at PGIMER (Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research), Chandigarh, India, found that prolonged use of smokeless tobacco alters the oral microbiome, promoting the growth of bacteria capable of breaking down nicotine. The research suggests these “nicotinophilic” microbes adapt to repeated nicotine exposure by using it as an energy source. The findings indicate that these microbial changes could potentially be harnessed to support future tobacco cessation strategies.
Presented at the 29th IAPHD National Conference (NATCON 2025) in Mangaluru, the study earned the Best Paper Award. Researchers analyzed saliva samples from smokeless tobacco users using advanced molecular techniques and confirmed that certain oral bacteria can actively metabolize nicotine. While further research is needed, experts say the study offers a new biological perspective on nicotine dependence and oral health.