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DNA- and RNA-based diagnostics play a pivotal role in accurately detecting and characterizing health-relevant bacteria, offering insights into bacterial presence, viability and treatment efficacy. Herein, we present the development of a novel extraction protocol for both DNA and RNA, designed to enable simple and rapid molecular diagnostics. The extraction method is based on the hydrophilic ionic liquid (IL) 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium acetate and silica-coated magnetic beads. First, we developed an IL-based cell lysis protocol for bacteria that operates at room temperature. Subsequently, we established a magnetic bead purification procedure to efficiently and reproducibly extract DNA and RNA from the IL-lysates. The IL not only lyses the cells, but also facilitates the adsorption of nucleic acids (NAs) onto the surface of the magnetic beads, eliminating the need for a chaotropic binding buffer and allowing for purification of NAs without significant effort and materials required. Lastly, we combined the cell lysis step and the purification step and evaluated the novel IL-based extraction method on periopathogenic bacterial cultures, comparing it to commercial DNA and RNA extraction kits via (RT)-qPCR. In comparison to the reference methods, the IL-based extraction protocol yielded similar or superior results. Furthermore, costs are lower, required materials and equipment are minimal and the process is fast (30 min), simple and automatable. These characteristics favour the developed method for use in routine and high-throughput testing as well as in point-of-care, on-site and low-resource settings, thereby advancing the field of molecular diagnostics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic periodontitis is a bacterial infection associated with dentally adherent biofilm (plaque) accumulation and age-related comorbidities. The disease begins as an inflammatory exudate from gingival margins, gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) in response to biofilm lysine. After a week of experimental gingivitis (no oral hygiene), biofilm lysine concentration was linearly related to biofilm accumulation (plaque index) but to GCF as an arch-shaped double curve which separated 9 strong from 6 weak GCF responders (hosts). Host DNA was examined for single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of alleles reported in 7 periodontitis-associated genes. Across all 15 hosts, an adenine SNP (A) at IL1B-511 (rs16944), was significant for strong GCF (Fisher's exact test, p < 0.05), and a thymidine SNP (T) at IL1B+3954 (rs1143634) for weak GCF provided 2 hosts possessing IL6-1363(T), rs2069827, were included. The phenotype of IL1B+3954(T) was converted from weak to strong in one host, and of the non-T allele from strong to weak in the other (specific epistasis, Fisher's exact test, p < 0.01). Together with homozygous alternate or reference SNPs at IL10-1082 or CD14-260 in 4 hosts, all hosts were identified as strong or weak GCF responders. The GCF response is therefore a strong or weak genetic trait that indicates strong or weak innate immunity in EG and controllable or uncontrollable periodontal disease, dental implant survival and late-life comorbidities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The goals of periodontal therapy include preventing illness, slowing or stopping disease development, replacing lost periodontal tissues, and preserving the therapeutic outcomes. The apical repositioning of the gingival edge during traditional periodontal surgery exposes the root surface to the oral cavity and reduces pocket depth. It may lead to attachment loss, Gingival Recession (GR). It is also commonly recognised that periodontal surgery causes pain and suffering. Laser assisted periodontal therapy has been the subject of study in an effort to address these drawbacks. Aim: To compare the efficacy of diode laser as an adjunct to Open Flap Debridement (OFD) with that of OFD alone in the management of chronic periodontitis patients. Materials and Methods: This randomised clinical trial with split mouth study design will be conducted in Periodontics Department at Sharad Pawar Dental College, Wardha, Maharashtra, India, for a duration of six months. Thirteen patients (26 quadrants) with generalised chronic periodontitis patients will be selected. The Probing Pocket Depth (PPD) ≥5 mm after phase I therapy will be included in this split mouth study. Diode laser (920 nm) will be used as an adjunct to OFD (test) as compared with conventional flap surgery (control). Clinical parameters like Plaque Index (PI), Papillary Bleeding Index (PBI), PPD, Relative Attachment Level (RAL) and Relative Gingival Marginal Level (RGML) and GR will be recorded at baseline and six months post-therapy. Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) will be used to determine patient discomfort intraoperatively and after one week. A questionnaire for patient-based outcomes will be administered after period of six months postsurgery and response will be recorded. Student's paired t-test will be used for comparing the treatment groups at baseline and six months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The goals of periodontal therapy include preventing illness, slowing or stopping disease development, replacing lost periodontal tissues, and preserving the therapeutic outcomes. The apical repositioning of the gingival edge during traditional periodontal surgery exposes the root surface to the oral cavity and reduces pocket depth. It may lead to attachment loss, Gingival Recession (GR). It is also commonly recognised that periodontal surgery causes pain and suffering. Laser assisted periodontal therapy has been the subject of study in an effort to address these drawbacks. Aim: To compare the efficacy of diode laser as an adjunct to Open Flap Debridement (OFD) with that of OFD alone in the management of chronic periodontitis patients. Materials and Methods: This randomised clinical trial with split mouth study design will be conducted in Periodontics Department at Sharad Pawar Dental College, Wardha, Maharashtra, India, for a duration of six months. Thirteen patients (26 quadrants) with generalised chronic periodontitis patients will be selected. The Probing Pocket Depth (PPD) ≥5 mm after phase I therapy will be included in this split mouth study. Diode laser (920 nm) will be used as an adjunct to OFD (test) as compared with conventional flap surgery (control). Clinical parameters like Plaque Index (PI), Papillary Bleeding Index (PBI), PPD, Relative Attachment Level (RAL) and Relative Gingival Marginal Level (RGML) and GR will be recorded at baseline and six months post-therapy. Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) will be used to determine patient discomfort intraoperatively and after one week. A questionnaire for patient-based outcomes will be administered after period of six months postsurgery and response will be recorded. Student’s paired t-test will be used for comparing the treatment groups at baseline and six months.

Due to its antimicrobial and healing-promoting effects, the application of cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) appears to be a promising modality in various fields of general medicine and dentistry. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the antibacterial and anti-biofilm activity of a handheld device utilizing ambient air for plasma generation. Suspensions of 11 oral bacteria (among them Fusobacterium nucleatum, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Parvimonas micra, Streptococcus gordonii, and Tannerella forsythia) were exposed to CAP for 10, 30, 60, and 120 s. Before and after treatment, colony forming unit (CFU) counts were determined. Then, 12-species biofilms were cultured on dentin and titanium specimens, and CAP was applied for 30, 60, and 120 s before quantifying CFU counts, biofilm mass, and metabolic activity. A reduction of ≥3 log10 CFU, was found for ten out of the eleven tested species at 30 s (except for T. forsythia) and for all species at 60 s. For biofilm grown on dentin and titanium specimens, the log10 reductions were 2.43 log10 CFU/specimen and by about 4 log10 CFU/specimen after 120 s of CAP. The CAP application did not reduce the biomass significantly, the metabolic activity of the biofilms on dentin and titanium decreased by 98% and 95% after 120 s of CAP. An application of 120 s of CAP had no cytotoxic effect on gingival fibroblasts and significantly increased the adhesion of gingival fibroblasts to the titanium surface. These results are promising and underline the potential of CAP for implementation in periodontal and peri-implantitis therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oral microbiota have shown a higher bacterial diversity in patients with cancers of the digestive tract, with higher levels of periopathogens. Recent studies have shown that Fusobacterium links to gastro-intestinal neoplastic tissue and accelerates its progression, as well as worsening patient outcome. The present pilot study was carried out between February and December 2020 to evaluate the possible association between the abundance of some periopathogens (Fusobacterium nucleatum, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Treponema denticola and Tannerella forsythia) in subgingival plaque and periodontal status with characteristics of gastric cancer. The study was performed on a sample of 24 patients with gastric cancer from the 1st Department of Surgery and Department of Gastroenterology within the Clinical County Hospital of Emergency of Craiova, Romania. The patients' oral cavity was examined, gingival crevicular samples were collected, and signs of periodontal disease were recorded. On the histopathological exam, the differentiation grade and size of the tumour were registered. Our results showed that, from the periopathogens studied, the most abundant bacteria were F. nucleatum followed by T. forsythia in all groups. In our present study, the strong correlation between tumour dimension and all periodontal parameters but also between tumour dimension and F. nucleatum could suggest a positive association between periodontal disease, tumoral growth and periopathogens implication in this process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to its antimicrobial and healing-promoting effects, the application of cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) appears to be a promising modality in various fields of general medicine and dentistry. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the antibacterial and anti-biofilm activity of a handheld device utilizing ambient air for plasma generation. Suspensions of 11 oral bacteria (among them Fusobacterium nucleatum, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Parvimonas micra, Streptococcus gordonii, and Tannerella forsythia) were exposed to CAP for 10, 30, 60, and 120 s. Before and after treatment, colony forming unit (CFU) counts were determined. Then, 12-species biofilms were cultured on dentin and titanium specimens, and CAP was applied for 30, 60, and 120 s before quantifying CFU counts, biofilm mass, and metabolic activity. A reduction of ≥3 log10 CFU, was found for ten out of the eleven tested species at 30 s (except for T. forsythia) and for all species at 60 s. For biofilm grown on dentin and titanium specimens, the log10 reductions were 2.43 log10 CFU/specimen and by about 4 log10 CFU/specimen after 120 s of CAP. The CAP application did not reduce the biomass significantly, the metabolic activity of the biofilms on dentin and titanium decreased by 98% and 95% after 120 s of CAP. An application of 120 s of CAP had no cytotoxic effect on gingival fibroblasts and significantly increased the adhesion of gingival fibroblasts to the titanium surface. These results are promising and underline the potential of CAP for implementation in periodontal and peri-implantitis therapy.

The purpose of the study conducted on cystic fibrosis (CF) patients was the bacterial plaque accumulation and the gingival condition assessment, and microbial analysis of the subgingival biofilm. The study included 22 CF adult patients and 22 healthy controls, sex and age compatible with the CF patients. The dental plaque was assessed using plaque index (PLI), and the gingival status using gingival index (GI). Analyses of the subgingival biofilm were performed by the real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test. The mean value of GI in CF patients was 0.39 ±0.36 and was significantly lower comparing to the healthy controls (1.02 ±0.63), PLI was similar in both the groups (1.31 ±0.69) for the study group and 1.04 ±0.62 for controls). In CF patients there was no correlation between PLI and GI, which was observed in the control group. In both the groups there was a correlation between PLI and the total number of periopathogens. Furthermore, in the control group, there was a correlation between GI and the number of periopathogens. Such a correlation was not observed in the CF patients. In patients with CF, the lack of correlation between the amount of tooth deposits and the gingival condition may indicate a stable, most likely pharmacologically conditioned oral biofilm ecology. Among the aetiological factors of gingivitis and periodontitis in patients with CF, the bacterial activity does not seem to be modified. However, the unsatisfactory oral hygiene found in the study participants does not exclude the possibility of disease development in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mechanical debridement is the gold standard in the periodontitis therapy. However, it is suggested that adjunctive use of lasers can result in a more effective treatment outcome. Objective: Evaluate the efficiency of diode laser-assisted nonsurgical therapy of periodontitis as adjunctive to scaling and root planing (SRP). Methods: One hundred sixty vertical bone defects [pocket depth (PD) at baseline 6mm] had been randomly allocated to receive SRP alone (group C) or SRP coupled to a diode laser (980 nm) protocol (group C+L): SRP, irrigation with hydrogen peroxide solution (3%), de-epithelization of the internal and external gingiva followed by blood stabilization, and coagulation by laser beam were made. Beam parameters: 10 lsec/pulse duration, 10 kHz, pick power of 10 W, average power of 1 W, and fiber diameter of 400 lm. Plaque index (PI), bleeding on probing, gingival recession (GR), clinical attachment level (CAL), and PD were measured at baseline, at 6 weeks, 12 weeks, 18 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months. Microbiological data were collected randomly from 26 pockets from both groups at baseline, 6 weeks, 12 weeks, and 6 months after treatment. Results: At all periods of follow-up, there was a significant difference between both groups in all clinical parameters except in GR. In group C+L, 76% of pockets had PD £3mm after 12 months of follow-up and an average of PD = 1.77 - 0.46 mm, while 56% of pockets in group control (C) had an average of PD = 5.00 - 0.83mm after 12 months of follow-up. Total bacteria count in group C+ L was significantly lower compared to group C only at 12 weeks and 6 months of follow-up. Furthermore, there was high significant decrease in the number of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia, and Prevotella intermedia at all the follow-up periods. Conclusions: As adjunctive to SRP, diode laser-assisted nonsurgical therapy of periodontitis has significantly improved clinical parameters of PI and POB and has significantly reduced the clinical attachment loss (CAL) and PD compared to the control group after 1 year of follow-up. A significant reduction in periodontal pathogens has been observed in group C+ L only at 12 weeks and 6 months of follow-up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oral microbiota have shown a higher bacterial diversity in patients with cancers of the digestive tract, with higher levels of periopathogens. Recent studies have shown that Fusobacterium links to gastro-intestinal neoplastic tissue and accelerates its progression, as well as worsening patient outcome. The present pilot study was carried out between February and December 2020 to evaluate the possible association between the abundance of some periopathogens (Fusobacterium nucleatum, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Treponema denticola and Tannerella forsythia) in subgingival plaque and periodontal status with characteristics of gastric cancer. The study was performed on a sample of 24 patients with gastric cancer from the 1st Department of Surgery and Department of Gastroenterology within the Clinical County Hospital of Emergency of Craiova, Romania. The patients’ oral cavity was examined, gingival crevicular samples were collected, and signs of periodontal disease were recorded. On the histopathological exam, the differentiation grade and size of the tumour were registered. Our results showed that, from the periopathogens studied, the most abundant bacteria were F. nucleatum followed by T. forsythia in all groups. In our present study, the strong correlation between tumour dimension and all periodontal parameters but also between tumour dimension and F. nucleatum could suggest a positive association between periodontal disease, tumoral growth and periopathogens implication in this process.

Introduction and Aim. Oral microbiota has shown a higher bacterial diversity and abundance in individuals with digestive tract malignancies. According to recent research, some periopathogens link to gastro-intestinal neoplastic tissue and accelerate its progression. The present study was carried out to evaluate a possible association between the abundance of Fusobacterium nucleatum and Tannerella forsythia and periodontal status with the characteristics of gastric cancer. Materials and Methods. Twenty-four patients with gastric cancer were examined and divided in two groups, with periodontitis and gingivitis. The patients' oral cavity was examined, gingival crevicular samples were collected, and the following parameters were recorded: number of absent teeth, probing pocket depth, clinical attachment loss and bleeding on probing. Quantitative real-time polymerase-chain-reaction was used to evaluate the amount of the two bacteria in the gingival crevicular fluid samples. The differentiation grade and tumour dimension were registered during the histopathological exam of the gastric cancer tissues. Following the statistical analysis, correlations between periodontal disease's clinical parameters, the bacterial strains identified, and the characteristics of gastric cancer were made. Results. The strong significant correlation between tumour dimension and all periodontal parameters (p < 0.05) but also between the size of the tumour and F. nucleatum (p < 0.05) could suggest a positive association between periodontal disease, gastric tumoral growth and periopathogens' implication in this process. A moderate significant correlation was found between tumour dimension and T. forsythia (p < 0.05). The low differentiation grade was most common across both groups. Conclusions. Our findings point to a potential association between periodontal disease, the two subgingival periopathogens evaluated and gastric cancer's evolution. Consequently, we can state that further research is required for a more comprehensive understanding of this deadly disease, for early diagnosis and for discovering new strategies to limit its progression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The AgNP-doped Ti 6 Al 4 V surfaces preserved high rates of osteoblast cell viability. • The AgNP-doped Ti 6 Al 4 V surfaces preserved high rates of osteoblast cell proliferation. • The AgNP-doped Ti 6 Al 4 V surfaces showed antibacterial effects against P. gingivalis. • The AgNP-doped Ti 6 Al 4 V surfaces showed antibacterial effects against P. intermedia. • The AgNP-doped Ti 6 Al 4 V surfaces could be proposed for dental implant applications. This study aimed to develop silver nanoparticle (AgNP)-doped Ti 6 Al 4 V alloy surfaces and investigate their antibacterial properties against representative periopathogens and potential cytotoxicity on osteoblastic cells. AgNPs of different size distributions (5 and 30 nm) were incorporated onto the Ti 6 Al 4 V surfaces by electrochemical deposition, using colloid silver dispersions with increasing AgNP concentrations (100, 200 and 300 ppm). The time-course silver release from the specimen surfaces to cell culture media was assessed by Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS). Cell attachment, viability and proliferation were investigated by SEM, live/dead staining MTT and BrdU assays. The antibacterial effects were assessed against P. gingivalis and P. intermedia by serial dilution spotting assays. A time- and concentration-dependent silver release from the experimental surfaces was observed. Overall, cell viability and attachment on the AgNP-doped surfaces, suggested adequate cytocompatibility at all concentrations. A transient cytotoxic effect was detected at 24 h for the 5 nm-sized groups that fully recovered at later time-points, while no cytotoxicity was observed for the 30 nm-sized groups. A statistically significant, concentration-dependent decrease in cell proliferation rates was induced at 48 h in all AgNP groups, followed by recovery at 72 h in the groups coated with 5 nm-sized AgNPs. A statistically significant, concentration-dependent antibacterial effect up to 30% was confirmed against both periopathogens. This study sheds light to the optimal size-related concentrations of AgNP-doped Ti 6 Al 4 V surfaces to achieve antibacterial effects, without subsequent cytotoxicity. These results significantly contribute to the development of antibacterial surfaces for application in oral implantology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Oral bacteria take the form of biofilms, which - due to their complex structure - are characterized by high resistance to many external factors. The aim of the study was to analyze the composition of subgingival biofilm in pockets ≥7 mm in an effort to answer the question whether the presence of selected bacteria of the red complex and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans may determine the diagnosis in the context of the new classification of periodontal diseases. Material/Methods: The study included two groups of patients: 30 individuals with periodontitis Grade B (Stage III or IV) and 30 subjects with periodontitis Grade C (Stage III or IV). Each patient had at least one PPD ≥ 7 mm. The study group consisted of 26 males and 34 females, mean age 43.8 ± 15.2 years. Selected periodontal parameters were evaluated as well as microbiological quantitative and qualitative analysis was performed regarding bacterial flora in the pockets for the presence of Porphyromonas gingivalis, Treponema denticola and A. actinomycetemcomitans. Results: The total number of bacteria was higher in patients with periodontitis Grade B, as compared to periodontitis Grade C. The number of P. gingivalis was higher in patients with periodontitis Grade B at 157.4*10^3 versus 139.9*10^3 in Grade C patients (p = 0.033). There was no difference in the occurrence of T. denticola depending on the diagnosis (p = 0.228). The presence of A. actinomycetemcomitans was confirmed only in four patients with periodontitis Grade C (p = 0.186). A moderate correlation was observed between the occurrence of P. gingivalis and T. denticola in patients with periodontitis Grade B (r = 0.51, p = 0.004). Conclusions: The composition of subgingival biofilm was very similar in patients with periodontitis Grade B and periodontitis Grade C. We may speculate that periododntitis grade may not be distinguished according to a simple analysis of subgingival plaque with respect to P. gingivalis, T. denticola and A. actinomycetemcomitans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background and purpose Oral mucositis remains one of the most common complications of radiation therapy for patients with head and neck cancer. This study aimed to investigate the dynamic shifts in the oral mucosal microbiota and their association with the progression and aggravation of mucositis in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) undergoing radiotherapy. Materials and methods In this study, oropharyngeal mucosa of patients were examined regularly, and sampled longitudinally in eight stages of their radiation treatment program: before radiation, and then after 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, and 70 Gy. Based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing and bioinformatics analysis, the characteristics of dynamic variations in oral microbiota during their treatment were investigated. Results The results showed that the mucosal bacterial alpha diversity (richness and evenness) did not change significantly during the entire course of these patient treatments. Notwithstanding 20 genera were found to be significantly positively associated with their radiation dose, whereas 10 genera were negatively associated with it. Notably, two bacterial co-abundance groups (CAG 1 and 2) were identified and the majority of bacteria clustered within the CAG 2 were indeed periodontal disease-associated genera. Most strikingly, many of them, especially Prevotella , Fusobacterium , Treponema and Porphyromonas , showed obvious dynamic synchronous variations in their abundances throughout the course of radiation therapy, where their peaks frequently coincided with the onset of severe mucositis. Conclusion Our results suggest that dysbiosis of oral mucosal microbiota may contribute to exacerbating the severity of mucositis in patients undergoing radiotherapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present in vitro study examines molecular processes that are relevant during bone homeostasis after Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans and Porphyromonas gingivalis infection with a focus on the differentiation level of osteoblasts. Regenerative processes are often hindered by the recurrence of bacterial infections, which can ultimately provoke a severe destruction of bone tissue. To obtain more detailed insights into such a complex scenario, we have used undifferentiated MG63 osteoblast-like cells as an experimental paradigm to examine the impact of two oral pathogens, A. actinomycetemcomitans and P. gingivalis, on proliferation, cytotoxicity and osteogenic differentiation. Cell culture experiments were performed to analyze cellular behavior. The level of genes interfering with bone tissue integrity (matrix metalloproteinases and their tissue inhibitors) and osteogenic markers (alkaline phosphatase, Runx2, human β-defensin-2) was compared in undifferentiated versus differentiated MG63 cells using real-time polymerase chain reaction. Functional activity of matrix metalloproteinases was quantified by zymography. Western blot analysis was used to verify the phosphorylation state of mitogen-activated protein kinases p38 and extracellular-signal-regulated kinases 1/2. When co-cultured with undifferentiated MG63 cells, oral pathogens provoked distinct cellular effects. Only A. actinomycetemcomitans reduced cell proliferation, increased cell death, and induced osteogenic differentiation. A comparison of matrix metalloproteinase network stability in the presence of oral pathogens revealed a partial sensitivity towards P. gingivalis but not A. actinomycetemcomitans. So, beside the proof of concept that MG63 cells co-cultured with oral pathogens can serve as an in vitro model for mimicking destructive and regenerative events after bacterial infections, our data indicate that double infections might counterbalance otherwise positive effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, there is little evidence available on the development of predictive models for the diagnosis or prognosis of chronic periodontitis based on the qPCR quantification of subgingival pathobionts. Our objectives were to: (1) analyze and internally validate pathobiont-based models that could be used to distinguish different periodontal conditions at site-specific level within the same patient with chronic periodontitis; (2) develop nomograms derived from predictive models. Subgingival plaque samples were obtained from control and periodontal sites (probing pocket depth and clinical attachment loss 4 mm, respectively) from 40 patients with moderate-severe generalized chronic periodontitis. The samples were analyzed by qPCR using TaqMan probes and specific primers to determine the concentrations of Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans (Aa), Fusobacterium nucleatum (Fn), Parvimonas micra (Pm), Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg), Prevotella intermedia (Pi), Tannerella forsythia (Tf), and Treponema denticola (Td). The pathobiont-based models were obtained using multivariate binary logistic regression. The best models were selected according to specified criteria. The discrimination was assessed using receiver operating characteristic curves and numerous classification measures were thus obtained. The nomograms were built based on the best predictive models. Eight bacterial cluster-based models showed an area under the curve (AUC) ≥0.760 and a sensitivity and specificity ≥75.0%. The PiTfFn cluster showed an AUC of 0.773 (sensitivity and specificity = 75.0%). When Pm and AaPm were incorporated in the TdPiTfFn cluster, we detected the two best predictive models with an AUC of 0.788 and 0.789, respectively (sensitivity and specificity = 77.5%). The TdPiTfAa cluster had an AUC of 0.785 (sensitivity and specificity = 75.0%). When Pm was incorporated in this cluster, a new predictive model appeared with better AUC and specificity values (0.787 and 80.0%, respectively). Distinct clusters formed by species with different etiopathogenic role (belonging to different Socransky’s complexes) had a good predictive accuracy for distinguishing a site with periodontal destruction in a periodontal patient. The predictive clusters with the lowest number of bacteria were PiTfFn and TdPiTfAa, while TdPiTfAaFnPm had the highest number. In all the developed nomograms, high concentrations of these clusters were associated with an increased probability of having a periodontal site in a patient with chronic periodontitis.

Background The main goal of periodontal therapy is to eliminate the infection spreading in periodontium. Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy may be applied in order to eradicate pathogens remaining in periodontal tissues after conventional mechanical debridement, to improve the treatment results. The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the susceptibility of selected key periopathogens to toluidine blue O-mediated photodynamic inactivation and the influence of photosensitizer’s concentration and light dose on the effectiveness of this process. Methods Following bacterial strains were used in the experiments: Porphyromonas gingivalis ATCC 33277, Aggregatibacter actinomyctemecomitans ATCC 33384, Fusobacterium nucleatum ATCC 10953. Toluidine blue O (TBO) was used in concentration ranging from 0.004 to 0.5 mg/mL. Irradiation was performed by a non-laser red light source. Results Complete eradication of P. gingivalis was obtained upon the application of TBO in the concentration of 0.1 mg/mL and the highest light dose. A, actinomycetemcomitans was, in turn, not susceptible to photodynamic inactivation regardless of the dosimetric parameters applied. High viability reductions were also obtained for F. nucleatum , however no complete eradication. The effectiveness of photodynamic inactivation of susceptible periopathogens was dependent on the light dose and photosensitizer’s concentration. Conclusions Periopathogens differ in terms of their susceptibility to photodynamic inactivation. Antimicrobial PDT may be valuable in the treatment of those cases of periodontal disease, in which P. gingivalis is a dominating pathogen. Microbiological examination prior to clinical application of aPDT may be recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, there is little evidence available on the development of predictive models for the diagnosis or prognosis of chronic periodontitis based on the qPCR quantification of subgingival pathobionts. Our objectives were to: (1) analyze and internally validate pathobiont-based models that could be used to distinguish different periodontal conditions at site-specific level within the same patient with chronic periodontitis; (2) develop nomograms derived from predictive models. Subgingival plaque samples were obtained from control and periodontal sites (probing pocket depth and clinical attachment loss <4 mm and >4 mm, respectively) from 40 patients with moderatesevere generalized chronic periodontitis. The samples were analyzed by qPCR using TaqMan probes and specific primers to determine the concentrations of Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans (Aa), Fusobacterium nucleatum (Fn), Parvimonas micra (Pm), Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg), Prevotella intermedia (Pi), Tannerella forsythia (Tf), and Treponema denticola (Td). The pathobiont-based models were obtained using multivariate binary logistic regression. The best models were selected according to specified criteria. The discrimination was assessed using receiver operating characteristic curves and numerous classification measures were thus obtained. The nomograms were built based on the best predictive models. Eight bacterial cluster-based models showed an area under the curve (AUC) ⩾0.760 and a sensitivity and specificity ⩾75.0%. The PiTfFn cluster showed an AUC of 0.773 (sensitivity and specificity = 75.0%). When Pm and AaPm were incorporated in the TdPiTfFn cluster, we detected the two best predictive models with an AUC of 0.788 and 0.789, respectively (sensitivity and specificity = 77.5%). The TdPiTfAa cluster had an AUC of 0.785 (sensitivity and specificity = 75.0%). When Pm was incorporated in this cluster, a new predictive model appeared with better AUC and specificity values (0.787 and 80.0%, respectively). Distinct clusters formed by species with different etiopathogenic role (belonging to different Socransky's complexes) had a good predictive accuracy for distinguishing a site with periodontal destruction in a periodontal patient. The predictive clusters with the lowest number of bacteria were PiTfFn and TdPiTfAa, while TdPiTfAaFnPm had the highest number. In all the developed nomograms, high concentrations of these clusters were associated with an increased probability of having a periodontal site in a patient with chronic periodontitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim - To evaluate the Antibacterial efficacy of three different dilution of green coffee bean extract on periopathogens. Objective- To achieve a dilution of green coffee bean extract which has the maximum inhibitory effect on P. gingivalis and A. actinomycetocomitans. Methods- The sterilised blood agar culture plate was prepared on which colonies of P. gingivalis and A. actinomycetocomitans were cultured by subgingival sample taken from Chronic Generalized Periodontitis cases. Three dilution of green coffee bean extract were prepared i.e 10-8, 10-9 and 10-10 with the serial dilution method using Distilled water. Then streaking of colonies was done on three different areas of culture plate on which different dilution was added. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) on culture plates was observed to see the inhibitory effect of Green Coffee Bean extract on periopathogens by Agar Diffusion Method. Result- 10-9 was found have maximum inhibitory effect on periopathogens especially P. Gingivalis Conclusion- P. Gingivalis is more susceptible to 10-9 concentration of Green Coffee Bean Extract [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The term "periodontal disease" refers to a group of chronic inflammatory illnesses caused by specific microorganisms from subgingival biofilm, that affect the tooth-supporting tissues. Recent research has also shown that periodontal infection plays a role in aggravating systemic disease states at distal sites, reinforcing the significance of the oral cavity for general health. Additionally, it has been suggested that gastroenterological malignancies may be promoted by hematogenous, enteral or lymphatic translocation of periopathogens. In the past 25 years, the global burden of pancreatic cancer (PC) has more than doubled, making it one of the major causes of cancer-related mortality. Periodontitis has been linked to at least 50% increased risk of PC and it could be considered a risk factor for this malignancy. A recent study performed on 59000 African American women with a follow up of 21 years showed that participants who had poor dental health had higher chances of PC. The findings, according to researchers, might be related to the inflammation that some oral bacteria trigger. Regarding the mortality of PC, periodontitis considerably raises the chance of dying from PC. Microbiome alterations in the gut, oral cavity and pancreatic tissues of PC patients occur when compared to healthy flora, demonstrating a link between PC and microecology. Inflammation may also contribute to PC development, although the underlying pathway is not yet known. The function of the microbiome in PC risk has drawn more focus over the last decade. Future risk of PC has been linked to the oral microbiome, specifically increased levels of Porphyromonas gingivalis and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans and decreased relative abundance of Leptotrichia and Fusobacteria , suggesting that it may have an impact on the inflammatory condition by expanding, altering, and regulating the commensal microbiome. Patients who received periodontal treatment had significantly decreased incidence rate ratios for PC. By analyzing patterns in the microbiome composition throughout PC development and establishing strategies to enhance the cancer-associated microbial system, we can increase the efficacy of therapy and eventually find an application for the microbial system. The development of immunogenomics and gut micro-genomics in the life sciences will result in a significant advancement in our understanding of how microbial systems and immunotherapy interact, and it may also have intriguing therapeutic implications for extending the lifetime of PC patients., Competing Interests: Conflict-of-interest statement: All the authors report no relevant conflicts of interest for this article., (©The Author(s) 2023. Published by Baishideng Publishing Group Inc. All rights reserved.)

Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) involves pathogens’ destruction caused by means of toxic Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) that are generated upon the interaction of a photoactivatable substance (photosensitizer), light of the appropriate wavelength and oxygen. Among many clinical applications, it is also used as a supplementary method of treatment of periodontal disease. Many in vitro s tudies confirmed, that a major periopathogenic bacterium, Porphyromonas gingivalis is susceptible to this method. Several animal model studies pointed, that even a single application of aPDT adjunctive to conventional scaling and root planning (SRP) promotes better tissue healing, reduces the inflammatory infiltrate and bone loss. The outcomes of clinical trials are, however, inconsistent. Although in several the superiority of combined treatment protocol (SRP + aPDT) over the conventional (SRP alone) was reported, it was not confirmed in other trials. Nonetheless, the reduction of bleeding indices favoring the combined therapy was observed in the majority of the studies. It indicates, that aPDT has an influence on the extent of inflammation and further studies are needed to establish an optimal protocol of treatment combining mechanical debridement with photochemotherapy in order to obtain good treatment outcomes in our patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary Objectives Whether periopathogenic bacteria occur in the lung and gums simultaneously and what impact periodontitis has is unknown. Methods In consecutive outpatients scheduled for bronchoscopies we performed a periodontal screening index. PCR to determine four periopathogens and seven less pathogenic species in both the periodontal pocket and bronchial protected specimen brush was used. Activated MMP8 in saliva and bronchial fluid was measured. Results Periopathogens were detectable in gums and in the bronchial protected specimen brush in 75 (80%) and 27 (30%) of the cases, respectively. The concentration of activated MMP 8 was above 40 ng/ml in the saliva and in the bronchial fluid sample in six and 31 subjects, respectively. Significant agreement between the periodontal and bronchial compartment was found in three out of the four periopathogens. Patients with periopathogens in the lung suffered from periodontitis more frequently ( p = 0.01). In patients with periopathogens detectable in the lung the concentration of aMMP8 tends to be more frequently above 40 ng/ml in the bronchial fluid ( p = 0.09). Conclusions Agreement between periodontal and bronchial microbiome is more distinct for periopathogens than for less pathogenic species. Periodontitis itself represents a risk factor for pulmonary colonization with certain periopathogens. Pulmonary colonization with periopathogens seems to be associated with increased local inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are well known for their beneficial effects on human health in the intestine and immune system; however, there are few studies on the impact they can generate in oral health. The aim of this study was to test and compare in vitro antimicrobial activity of L. reuteri on pathogenic bacteria involved in the formation of dental caries: S. mutans, S. gordonii, and periodontal disease: A. naeslundii and T. forsythia. Also, we determined the growth kinetics of each bacterium involved in this study. Before determining the antimicrobial action of L. reuteri on cariogenic bacteria and periodontal disease, the behavior and cell development time of each pathogenic bacterium were studied. Once the conditions for good cell growth of each of selected pathogens were established according to their metabolic requirements, maximum exponential growth was determined, this being the reference point for analyzing the development or inhibition by LAB using the Kirby Bauer method. Chlorhexidine 0.12 % was positive control. L. reuteri was shown to have an inhibitory effect against S. mutans, followed by T. forsythia and S. gordonii, and a less significant effect against A. naeslundii. Regarding the effect shown by L. reuteri on the two major pathogens, we consider its potential use as a possible functional food in the prevention or treatment of oral diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The microbiota associated with healthy peri-implant tissues has been studied in many cases. However, gram-negative anaerobic rods may also be found in small numbers and in low proportions around the endosseous dental implants. Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate colonization of the peri-implant sulcus around two different types of implants by periopathogenic microbiota in a healthy patient. Materials and Methods: A patient with a healthy periodontium was selected. One hydroxy-apatite coated one-stage (AQB) implant was implanted at the site of the missing upper Right maxillary 1st molar; the two units two-stage (PLATON) were implanted at the sites of the missing 1st and 2nd molars in the Left maxillary region. Saliva samples were collected from the peri-implant sulcus using paper points every 3 months for 9 months after implantation and fixation of porcelain crowns. Real-Time Polymerase Reaction (RT-PCR-Invader method) was used to detect periodontal pathogens. Results: Salivary periodontal pathogens were checked prior to implantation and Tannerella forsythia (0.06%) was detected. No periodontal pathogens were observed at 3 months. T. forsythia (0.06%) was detected at 6 months around the AQB implant; it was not detected in the PLATON implant. At 9 months, periopathogens increased in number around both types of implants; there was a major difference in numbers of Fusobacterium nucleatum (10.81%), and T. forsythia (0.057%) around the submerged and non-submerged implant systems. Conclusions: Submerged implants with screw-retained superstructures are more vulnerable to pathogenic microflora colonization than non-submerged implants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. The aim of this study was to compare the outcome of two different microbiological tests for detection of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (A.a.), Porphyromonas gingivalis (P.g.), Tannerella forsythia (T.f.) and Treponema denticola (T.d.). Material and methods. A total of 69 adult patients with severe chronic (sCP) or aggressive periodontitis (AgP) participated in the study. Microbiological samples were examined for A.a., P.g., T.f. and T.d. using an RNA probe test (PADO) and a real-time polymerase chain reaction test (MERI). Results. For all periodontal pathogens under investigation, the median bacterial counts detected with PADO were smaller compared to those detected with MERI. P.g., T.f. and T.d. could be found in the majority of all patients with both tests. With MERI, A.a. was detected more often (24.6%) than with PADO (18.8%). Only 10.1% of the patients tested positive for A.a. with both tests. Conclusion. Both tests showed a high percentage of agreement for P.g., T.f. and T.d., but exhibited marked differences in the detection of A.a. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Bacterial cultivation is a well-established method for analyzing plaque samples. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is a novel rapid method for the identification and quantification of periodontopathogenic bacteria that has been recently introduced. In this study, we compared real-time PCR with conventional anaerobic cultivation. Method: A total of 78 subgingival plaque samples were harvested from pocκets ⩾ 5 mm in 22 patients with advanced chronic periodontitis and immediately transferred into transport medium. Aliquots were evaluated with species-specific probes by real-time PCR (meridot® Perio Diagnostics, GABA) and anaerobic bacteria culture on selective media for the detection of Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Prevotella intermedia and Tannerella forsythensis. The analysis was performed by two separate, blinded examiners. Results: When real-time PCR was compared with the culture method (golden standard) for the detection of putative periodontopathogenic bacteria, the sensitivity and specificity for A. actinomycetemcomitans were 67% and 100%, respectively (κ: 0.79); for F. nucleatum 73% and 53%, respectively (κ: 0.21); for P. gingivalis 94% and 84%, respectively (κ: 0.77); for P. intermedia 33% and 94%, respectively (κ: 0.26) and for T. forsythensis 92% and 56%, respectively (κ: 0.51). Spearman's correlation coefficients for the quantitative results of both methods were 0.82 for A. actinomycetemcomitans, 0.33 for F. nucleatum, 0.83 for P. gingivalis, 0.38 for P. intermedia and 0.67 for T. forsythensis. Conclusion: Overall, the agreement between both test methods was excellent for A. actinomycetemcomitans and P. gingivalis, fair for T. forsythensis and poor for F. nucleatum and P. intermedia. The discrepancies in the results may be explained by the inability of cultivation methods to distinguish between close related taxa, and the problems of κeeping periopathogenic bacteria viable, which is required for standard cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background, aim: Aggressive periodontitis comprises a group of rapidly progressive forms of periodontitis. Besides bacteria, a high level of subject susceptibility must be involved in the expression of disease. In the present study, we report the clinical, microbiological and genetic profile of a 14-individual family with aggressive periodontitis. Method: PCR was utilized to detect pathogenic bacteria of affected sites. DNA was obtained from epithelial cells through a mouthwash with 3% glucose and scrapping of the oral mucosa. RFLP-PCR was used to analyze cytokine genetic polymorphisms. Results: Localized aggressive periodontitis was diagnosed for an 18-year-old systemically healthy non-smoking proband, with siblings displaying aggressive periodontitis. Bacteroides forsythus and Treponema denticola were the most frequent pathogens. The proband presented Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans and detectable levels of Porphyromonas gingivalis , Bacteroides forsythus and Treponema denticola. Allele 2 of IL-1α (-889) polymorphism was found in all individuals as well as allele 1 of the IL-1β (+3953) gene. Alleles 1 and 2 (50 % each) of IL-1β (-511), allele 1 of TNF-α (-308) and allele 2 (in homo or heterozygosity) of IL-RN (intron 2) gene were present. Conclusion: The results show that the present microbiological and genetic parameters were not relevant for the prediction of periodontitis susceptibility in this family. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background: Bacteroides forsythus , Porphyromonas gingivalis and Prevotella intermedia are Gram-negative anaerobic bacteria that are currently considered potential periopathogens. Prevotella nigrescens has recently been separated from P. intermedia and its rôle in periodontitis is unknown. The erm (F) gene codes for an rRNA methylase, conferring resistance to macrolides, lincosamides and streptogramin B (MLSB ), and the tet (Q) gene for a ribosomal protection protein, conferring resistance to tetracycline. The presence of these resistance genes could impair the use of antibiotics for therapy. Purpose: The aim of this study was to determine the carriage of erm (F) and tet (Q), and genetic variability of 12 Porphyromonas gingivalis , 10 Prevotella intermedia , 25 Prevotella nigrescens and 17 Bacteroides forsythus isolates from 9 different patient samples. Methods: We used polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for detecting antibiotic resistance genes, and pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) for detecting genetic variability among the isolates. Results: Thirty-one (48%) isolates were resistant to both erythromycin and tetracycline and carried the erm (F) and tet (Q) genes, eight (13%) were tetracycline resistant and carried the tet (Q) gene, 9 (14%) were erythromycin resistant and carried the erm (F) gene, and 12 (19%) isolates did not carry antibiotic resistance genes. PFGE was used to compare isolates from the same patient and isolates from different patient samples digested with Xba I. No association was found between antibiotic resistance gene carriage and PFGE patterns in any species examined. All isolates of the same species from the same patient had highly related or identical PFGE patterns. Isolates of same species from different patients had unique PFGE pattern for each species tested. Conclusion: All isolates of the same species from any one patient were genetically related to each other but distinct from isolates from other... [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of Emdogain® (EMD), used for periodontal regeneration, on the growth of periodontal pathogens like Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis and Prevotella intermedia. For comparison, we studied the effect of EMD on several microbes associated with other oral diseases as well as its effect on non-pathogenic oral inhabitants. Methods: Freshly prepared EMD or its vehicle propylene glycol alginate (PGA) alone were added to calibrated suspensions of microbes. As a control, imitating the post-surgical subgingival situation after flap closure, a serum/NaCl-solution mixture was used. Aliquots for growth assays were taken at scheduled times for calculation of colony-forming units and cell densities over an observation period of 24 h. Additionally, EMD was spotted onto selected, newly seeded microbes growing on agar plates to see if growth inhibition zones could be produced. Results: The study revealed a marked inhibitory effect of EMD on the growth of the gram-negative periodontal pathogens. A. actinomycetemcomitans showed a significant decrease (p=0.012) in viable counts after 24 h when EMD was added at baseline. P. gingivalis and P. intermedia also showed a marked growth reduction in the presence of EMD and in these cultures no viable microbes could be detected anymore after 24 h. In contrast, no significant growth inhibition was observed in gram-positive bacteria. Conclusions: The results suggest that EMD has a positive effect on the composition of bacterial species in the post-surgical periodontal wound, by selectively restricting growth of periopathogens that could hamper the wound healing and reduce the outcome of regenerative procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to monitor the clinical and microbiological effects of non-surgical therapy in smokers and non-smokers. The subject material included 32 patients (age range 32-61 years), 11 men and 21 women with moderate to severe periodontitis. 17 patients were smokers (≥15 cigarettes/day) and 15 non-smokers. All patients were subjected to non-surgical periodontal therapy performed by a dental hygienist. Periodontal variables (plaque index, gingival index and probing depth) were registered and bacterial samples were collected before and 2 months after treatment. The treatment resulted in significant reductions towards very low plaque and gingival indices in smokers and non-smokers alike (p<0.05), Although probing depth was reduced in both smokers and non-smokers, the probing pocket depth reduction was significantly smaller in smokers than non-smokers (p<0.05). Microbiologically, the same therapeutical efficacy was attained in both smoking groups, indicating an almost total eradication of Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans and Porphyomonas gingivalis. Concerning Prevotella intermedia, out of 14 smokers and 10 non-smokers positive at baseline, 9 and 5, respectively, remained positive after treatment. The results suggest a less favourable clinical outcome of non-surgical therapy in smokers than non-smokers in spite of the fact that the therapy was equally effective with regard to reducing the alleged periopathogens A. actinomycetemcomitans, P. gingivalis and P. intermedia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to elucidate the interrelationship between cigarette smoking and the occurrence of periopathogens, i.e., Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans, Bacteroides gingivalis and Bacteroides intermedius. The study was based on 145 patients with clinically severe periodontitis. 52 men (age range 32-73 years) and 93 women (age range 32-74 years). 83 patients were smokers (≥ 15 cigarettes/day) and 62 non-smokers. Bacterial samples were collected from one site with a probing depth ≥ 6 mm for each individual. There were no statistically significant differences in bacterial counts between smokers and non-smokers (p>0.05). The relative frequencies of smokers and non-smokers positive for A. actinomycetemcomitans were 31% and 31%, for B. gingivalis 42% and 44%, and for B. intermedius 65% and 53%, respectively. The differences between smoking groups were not statistically significant (p>0.05). The occurrence in different combinations of these bacteria was also determined. There were no statistically significant differences between smoking and combinations of periopathogens (p>0.05). The results suggest that smoker and non-smoker patients do not differ with regard to occurrence, relative frequency or different combinations of A. actinomycetemcomitans, B. gingivalis and B. intermedius. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The level of TNF-a in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) was analyzed with respect to smoking in patients with untreated moderate to severe periodontal disease including 30 current smokers, 19 former smokers and 29 non-smokers, in the age range 31-79 years. Concomitantly the occurrence of the periopathogens Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans (Aa), Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg) and Prevotella intermedia (Pi) and the GCF levels of albumin, IgA and IgG were analyzed. With regard to clinical characteristics, there were no statistically significant differences between smoking groups. The occurrence of patients positive for the periopathogens Aa, Pg and Pi was 28.2%, 41.0% and 91.0% respectively. There were no statistically significant differences between smoking groups with regard to occurrence or relative frequency of these periopathogens. An exception was a significantly lower occurrence of Aa in former smokers as compared to non-smokers. The chief novelty of the study was the observation of a clearly increased level of TNF-α in GCF associated with smoking. Both current and former smokers exhibited significantly higher levels of TNF-α in comparison to non-smokers, whereas the level of albumin, IgA and IgG were the same irrespective of smoking. In conclusion, the present observations in patients with moderate to severe periodontal disease suggest that smoking is associated with elevated GCF levels of the cytokine TNF-α. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 5-year outcome following periodontal surgery was evaluated in 57 patients that had received regular maintenance care throughout the follow-up period. The study population included 20 smokers. 20 former smokers and 17 non-smokers in the age range 37-77 years. The clinical characteristics evaluated were supragingival plaque. gingival bleeding and pocket probing depth. The region assigned for surgery was, in addition, radiographically evaluated in terms of periodontal bone height. Furthermore, the occurrence of the periopathogens Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans (Aa). Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg) and Prevotella itnermedia (Pi) and the gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) were assessed at follow-up. Plaque index was at baseline and 32.9% at Follow-up, indicating a good standard of oral hygiene, and gingival bleeding 31.7% and 24.9%, respectively, suggesting a low to moderate level of gingival inflammation. In regions assigned For surgery, pocket probing depth decreased significantly from (in average 5.6 mm to 4.3 mm (p<0.0001) and periodontal bone height increased significantly from on average 62.5% to 67.5% (p<0.0001). In terms of bone height. the outcome was less favorable among smokers compared with non-smokers. There was a predominance of smokers among patients exhibiting loss of hone height after the 5 years of maintenance. No significant associations were found between the therapeutical outcome and supra- gingival plaque or subgingival occurrence of periopathogens. The associations between GCF levels of TNF-α and probing depth and bone height were unclear. whereas the level of TNF-α was significantly elevated in smokers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reports on the association of periodontal disease (PD) with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have regularly been published. PD is a set of chronic inflammatory conditions linked to a dysbiotic microbial biofilm, which affects the periodontal tissues, resulting eventually in their destruction and contributing to systemic inflammation. SLE is a multi-system chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease that has a wide range of clinical presentations, touching multiple organ systems. Many epidemiological studies have investigated the two-way relationship between PD and SLE, though their results are heterogeneous. SLE and PD are multifactorial conditions and many biological-based hypotheses suggest common physiopathological pathways between the two diseases, including genetics, microbiology, immunity, and environmental common risk factors. By focusing on recent clinical and translational research, this review aimed to discuss and give an overview of the relationship of SLE with PD, as well as looking at the similarities in the immune-pathological aspects and the possible mechanisms connecting the development and progression of both diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the last decades, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) proved to be invaluable for ultrastructural investigation, allowing imaging of the overall appearance and/or specific features of oral biofilms, e.g., microbial colonies and individual cells, glycocalyx, the presence of inorganic products. The aim of this study was the observation and evaluation of the morphology of the biofilm of endodontic-periodontal lesions (EPL) with a modified protocol involving a simplified histologic sample preparation and a low-vacuum SEM examination method. Twenty-one teeth with endodontic-periodontal involvement, extracted for periodontal reasons, were carefully washed with saline, underwent fixation in modified Karnovsky solution and were dehydrated in alcohol series. Samples were examined under low-vacuum SEM. Radicular surfaces were evaluated qualitatively and semiquantitatively for several characteristics, including the presence of bacterial types, the biofilm morphology and the content of root resorptions. Radicular surfaces were divided in four conventional zones Surfaces were evaluated for several characteristics: Presence of bacterial types, biofilm morphology, presence of root resorptions. High-quality images, relevant for endodontic-periodontal biofilms were collected. Continuous, established biofilm was found on all examined surfaces, its detection varying from 19% of the samples on the wall of cemental cone to 52.3% on the radicular surface of the periodontal pocket. Observed microorganisms included cocci, rods an filaments. Spirils and motile bacteria were only accidentally found. SEM investigation of surfaces involved in EPL revealed less surfaces covered by mature biofilm (in only 28.5% of the samples in the 'transition zone'), especially rods and filaments associated with cemental resorptions and calculus. Biofilm elements were better represented in periodontal pockets than in other zones of EPL (detected in up to 81% of the samples). A strong correlation between mature biofilm and the presence of cocci appears on all investigated zones (P<0.01). Microbiota appeared to be morphologically similar in apical and periodontal areas, especially in old EPL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]