The association of MMP-9 and IL-18 gene promoter polymorphisms with gingivitis in adolescents.

Objective: Interleukin 18 (IL-18) is shown to be a proinflammatory cytokine that regulates the expression of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9). The aim of this study was to test for differences between Czech adolescents with and without gingivitis in relation to MMP-9 and IL-18 polymorphisms.

Design: A total of 298 Caucasian children, aged 11-13 years, were examined to assess gingival health.

Association of interleukin-6 (IL-6) haplotypes with plaque-induced gingivitis in children.

Objectives: The proinflammatory cytokine interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a key regulator of the host response to microbial infection and major modulator of extracellular matrix catabolism and bone resorption. The aim of this case-control study was to test differences between children with and without gingivitis in the distribution of IL-6 alleles at positions -174, -572, and -597 and their haplotypes.

Material And Methods: A total of 455 Caucasian children, aged 11 to 13 years, were enrolled in this study.