Diabetes and the Oral Microbiome (IMAGE) University of Pennsylvania Caption Researchers found that diabetes (panel on right) shifts the oral microbiome, transforming it into a more inflammatory environment and promoting bone loss, characteristics of the gum disease periodontitis. Credit University of Pennsylvania Usage Restrictions In context of reporting License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.