The role of HBD-2, HBD-3, and calprotectin in the relationship between chronic periodontitis and atherosclerosis

Abstract

This study was carried out to compare individuals diagnosed with atherosclerosis and periodontal periodontitis based on the degree of change in the human beta-defensins (HBD) HBD-2, HBD-3, and calprotectin. Atherosclerosis is the most frequently observed cardiovascular disease. Dental and periodontal infections are known to provide a considerable basis for atheroma plaque formation. The study group consists of a total number of 40 subjects, with 20 patients diagnosed with atherosclerosis and chronic periodontitis and 20 systemically healthy patients diagnosed with chronic periodontitis. Clinical periodontal and blood parameters and HBD-2, HBD-3, and calprotectin biomarkers in the gingival crevicular fluid were measured. In both groups, following clinical periodontal treatment, a statistically significant decrease in white blood cells (WBC), low-density lipoproteins (LDL), fibrinogen, creatinine, and platelets (PLT), a statistically significant increase in high-density lipoproteins (HDL) in blood samples, statistically meaningful decrease in HBD-2, HBD-3, and calprotectin in the gingival crevicular fluid were achieved. Blood values and HBD-2, HBD-3, calprotectin amounts in the gingival crevicular fluid were increased significantly in the test group compared to the control group. A positive correlation was observed between decreases in HBD-2, HBD-3, calprotectin, and clinical periodontal indices. Regression in systemic inflammation was observed after clinical periodontal treatment. It is concluded that nonsurgical periodontal treatment of chronic periodontitis positively affects atherosclerosis prognosis.