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Correlations between gingival crevicular fluid enzymes and the subgingival microflora
H Suido1, J J Zambon, P A Mashimo
1Department of Oral Biology, School of Dental Medicine, State University of New York, Buffalo 14214.
Journal of Dental Research
|August 1, 1988
Summary
Enzyme levels in subgingival plaque correlate with Bacteroides gingivalis, a key bacterium in adult periodontitis. Measuring specific enzyme activities aids in diagnosing this condition.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Biochemistry
- Periodontology
Background:
- Bacteroides gingivalis is a Gram-negative bacterium linked to adult periodontitis.
- This microorganism produces significant amounts of specific enzymes.
- Understanding these enzymes is crucial for periodontitis pathogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the presence and levels of specific enzymatic activities in subgingival samples from periodontitis patients.
- To correlate enzyme levels with clinical periodontal indices and microbiological findings.
- To assess the diagnostic utility of enzyme measurements for B. gingivalis-associated periodontitis.
Main Methods:
- Subgingival plaque samples were collected from adults with moderate periodontitis.
- Enzymatic activity against specific substrates was measured.
- Microbiological analysis included darkfield and immunofluorescence microscopy for bacterial identification.
- Clinical periodontal indices were assessed.
Main Results:
- A significant positive correlation was found between N-benzoyl-D,L-arginine-beta-naphthylamide hydrochloride degrading enzyme levels and subgingival B. gingivalis presence (r = 0.55).
- Enzyme activities strongly correlated with total bacterial cell counts (r values ranging from 0.69 to 0.76).
- Significant differences in enzyme levels were observed between sites with varying gingival inflammation severity and B. gingivalis proportions.
Conclusions:
- Measurement of specific enzymatic activities in subgingival samples is a valuable diagnostic tool.
- This approach can aid in the diagnosis of B. gingivalis-associated periodontitis.
- Enzyme profiling offers insights into the role of B. gingivalis in periodontal disease progression.