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Association of NLRP3 (rs4612666) polymorphism in gingival crevicular fluid with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis and
Saumya Verma1, Dax Abraham2, Vineeta Sharma3
1Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, Manav Rachna Dental College, Manav Rachna International Institute of Research and Studies, Faridabad, Haryana, India.
Objectives:
This study investigated the association between the NLRP3 rs4612666 single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and the clinical presentation of symptomatic irreversible pulpitis (SIP) and asymptomatic apical periodontitis (AAP) using gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) samples from a North Indian population.
Methods:
In this observational case-control study, 48 participants were divided into three groups (n = 16 each): SIP, AAP, and healthy controls. GCF samples were collected for DNA extraction, followed by genotyping of the NLRP3 rs4612666 SNP using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP). Genotypic and allelic frequencies were compared across groups, and Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (HWE) was assessed.
Results:
The heterozygous TC genotype predominated in both the SIP (62.5 %) and AAP (68.8 %) groups, whereas the control group exclusively exhibited the TT genotype. The CC genotype was absent in all groups. The C allele was more frequent in AAP (43.8 %) than in SIP (18.8 %). Genotypic and allelic distributions differed significantly between the disease groups and controls (p < 0.001). Deviation from HWE in the AAP group (p = 0.0361) suggests potential genetic susceptibility to chronic inflammation.
Conclusion:
These findings suggest an association between the C allele of the NLRP3 rs4612666 SNP and increased inflammatory response in endodontic disease. Genetic screening may aid in early risk assessment and support personalized treatment planning.
Clinical Relevance:
Identifying NLRP3 rs4612666 polymorphism in patients may help predict susceptibility to chronic pulpal and periapical inflammation. This genetic insight can aid in risk-based diagnosis and guide personalized endodontic treatment planning.
