Evaluation of mRNA expression of the transcription factors of Th1 and Th2 subsets (T-bet and GATA-3) in periodontal health and disease - A pilot study in south Indian population.

Background: Based on their respective pro- or anti-inflammatory cytokine profiles, the Th1/Th2 paradigm explains pathogenic mechanisms involved in periodontal disease. Establishment of Th1 and Th2 subsets from a naive T-cell precursor depends on transcriptional regulation. The aim of this study was to compare the expression of master transcription factor regulators T-bet and GATA-3, respectively, to indicate the predominance of Th1 and Th2 subsets in the presence and absence of periodontal disease.