Erythrocyte Membrane Fatty Acids and Periodontitis Risk: A Population, Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking...

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Nutritional Science
• Periodontology

Background:

• Erythrocyte membrane fatty acid composition reflects dietary intake and metabolic state.
• Periodontitis is a common inflammatory disease affecting gum health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between erythrocyte membrane fatty acid profiles and periodontitis risk.
• To explore potential underlying mechanisms using network pharmacology and molecular docking.

Main Methods:

• A case-control study involving 108 periodontitis patients and 144 controls.
• Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry quantified 38 erythrocyte membrane fatty acids.
• Network pharmacology and molecular docking identified key fatty acids and their targets, including interleukin-6 (IL-6).

Main Results:

• Twenty-four fatty acids were detected, with 15 selected to form a composite score strongly associated with periodontitis risk (OR=2.77).
• Positive associations were observed between various saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fatty acids and periodontitis risk.
• Network analysis identified IL-6 as a key hub gene, with strong binding affinity to the 15 selected fatty acids.

Conclusions:

• Erythrocyte membrane fatty acid profiles are significantly associated with periodontitis risk.
• The association may be mediated by IL-6 inflammatory pathways.
• Findings suggest novel targets for nutritional interventions in periodontal health.