ZBP1 synchronized with periodontopathogenesis as the essential pattern recognition receptor
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Updated: May 13, 2025

Induction of Periodontitis via a Combination of Ligature and Lipopolysaccharide Injection in a Rat Model
Published on: February 17, 2023
Yu Chen1, Yuehua You2, Yi Xie3
1Department of Dentistry, People's Hospital of Longhua, Shenzhen, 518109, China; Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
Background:
Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease impacting quality of life. Understanding its pathogenesis is key to developing effective treatments. This study aimed to identify key pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) involved in periodontitis and elucidate their roles in disease progression.
Methods:
Periodontal tissues from healthy individuals and those with periodontitis were analyzed using RNA-sequencing, quantitative real-time PCR(qRT-PCR), and immunohistochemical analysis. Paired tissues collected before and after non-surgical treatment were analyzed via 4D-microDIA proteomics and Western blot.
Results:
RNA-sequencing showed significantly higher expression of Z-DNA binding protein 1(ZBP1) and absent in melanoma 2(AIM2) in periodontitis tissues compared to healthy controls, confirmed by qRT-PCR. Post-treatment proteomics indicated significant downregulation of ZBP1, with a non-significant trend for AIM2. Immunohistochemical staining localized ZBP1 to the middle and superficial layers of the gingival epithelium and around deep pockets in periodontitis, while AIM2 was detected in the junctional epithelium and extended throughout the pocket epithelium in periodontitis.
Conclusions:
ZBP1 is highlighted as a key PRR in periodontitis, with significant regulatory potential. AIM2 may play a secondary role. Their distinct spatial distributions suggest involvement in specific microenvironments within periodontal tissues, mediating responses to microbial and inflammatory challenges. ZBP1 may be a critical receptor initiating periodontitis.
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