Research project Gingivitis is a common condition, but only some individuals develop periodontitis, a disease that has impact on the quality of life and is associated with several systemic diseases. It is unknown why only some are affected or what, in the inflammatory process, that causes destruction of tooth supporting tissues. Our aim is to identify risk individuals and unravel the mechanisms behind tissue degradation in order to slow down disease progression, prevent tooth loss and diminish systemic effects.
In this project we use our patient cohort, PerioGene North, to identify genetic and biological factors related to periodontitis. The data material has been collected at dental clinics in northern Sweden between 2007-2019 and includes detailed clinical data as well as blood, DNA and registry data from 500 individuals with periodontitis and 500 healthy controls. The results of our research may, in the long term, enable precision diagnostics and pave way for the development of drugs that can slow down the degradation of tooth supporting tissues.
In individuals with periodontitis, a dysbiotic microflora on the tooth surfaces promotes the development of a destructive inflammation that progressively destroys the connective tissue and alveolar bone that supports the teeth. Also, microbial products and inflammatory proteins disseminate into the bloodstream. Most individuals with gingivitis never develop periodontitis, while others are highly susceptible and loose tooth supporting tissues despite a low infectious load. The prevalence of severe periodontitis in Sweden is around ten percent and has not changed since the 1970s, despite significant investments in the field of preventive dental care. In addition to tooth loss and reduced quality of life, research shows a link between periodontitis and several systemic diseases such as cardiovascular disease and rheumatoid arthritis.
There is currently no genetic marker that can identify people at risk of developing the disease or provide knowledge about the association with other diseases. As a result, periodontitis remains undetected until irreversible tissue damage has occurred. For individuals who do not respond to conventional treatment, there are no additional treatments that can slow down the disease progression. Identification of risk markers and development of new treatment strategies requires studies based on large and well characterized patient materials with blood samples, which are limited today.
PerioGene North is a unique cohort in which 500 people with severe periodontitis and 500 controls have undergone a complete dental examination and provided a blood sample. The study also includes detailed information about known risk factors and registry data on general health and medication.
If we discover factors that are crucial for developing periodontitis, we may also be able to identify risk individuals, gain a better understanding of the mechanisms involved in the disease pathogenesis and its association to other diseases. In this way, our studies can contribute to the development of precision diagnostics and new treatment methods which, in the long run, can improve the oral and general health of the population.
