Exploring the role of Th1 cytokines: interleukin-17 and interleukin-18 in periodontal health and disease.

There are conflicting data regarding the role of interleukin (IL)-17 in periodontal health and disease. However, IL-18 levels are known to increase with the severity of periodontal disease. The present study was performed to explore the role of these proinflammatory cytokines in periodontal disease progression, and also to clarify the effect of periodontal treatment on their concentration.

Crevicular fluid levels of plasma glutathione peroxidase (eGPx) in periodontal health and disease.

Background & Objectives: Reactive oxygen species (ROS) have been implicated in numerous human diseases, including periodontal diseases. Plasma glutathione peroxidase (eGPx) as an important antioxidant, has a protective role against ROS and is an established marker of oxidative stress. The present study evaluated the levels of eGPx in GCF to further probe into the role of oxidants and antioxidants in periodontal disease.

Gingival crevicular fluid levels of neopterin in healthy subjects and in patients with different periodontal diseases.

Background: Neopterin, a metabolite of guanosine, belongs to the class of chemical compounds known as pteridines and is an early and valuable marker of cellular immunity. Recently, it was shown to be associated with the initiation and progression of periodontal disease. The aim of the present study was to assess the relationship between clinical parameters and concentrations of neopterin within gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) from inflamed gingiva and periodontitis sites before and after the treatment of periodontitis.

Gingival crevicular fluid levels of leukotriene B4 in periodontal health and disease.

Background: Leukotriene B(4) (LTB(4)) is a membrane-derived lipid mediator formed from arachidonic acid. LTB(4) is among the most potent stimulants of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) and, thus, participates in tissue injury by recruiting PMNs in a pathophysiologic scenario of periodontal diseases. The aim of the present study was to assess the relationship between clinical parameters and concentrations of LTB(4) within gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) from inflamed gingiva and periodontitis sites before and after the treatment of periodontitis.