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Periodontitis in the baboon: a potential model for human disease
D R Miller1, T B Aufdemorte, W C Fox
1Department of Periodontics, Wilford Hall Medical Center, Lackland AFB, San Antonio, Texas, USA.
Journal of Periodontal Research
|November 1, 1995
Summary
Baboons develop naturally occurring periodontitis that worsens with age, showing increased probing depth and attachment loss. This makes them a potential animal model for studying human periodontal disease.
Area of Science:
- Periodontology
- Comparative Anatomy
- Animal Models
Background:
- Periodontal diseases are multifactorial, necessitating suitable animal models for research.
- Non-human primates closely resemble humans, making them valuable for periodontal studies.
- Baboons (Old World monkeys) are underutilized in periodontal research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the baboon as a potential animal model for human periodontal disease.
- To assess the prevalence and severity of periodontal disease in baboons based on age and gender.
Main Methods:
- Periodontal examinations were conducted on 116 baboons (ages 5-30 years).
- Clinical parameters included probing depth, attachment level, mobility, plaque index, and gingival index.
- Radiographs were taken for 25 animals and correlated with clinical findings.
Main Results:
- A significant increase in probing depth and attachment level was observed with age (p=0.0001).
- Furcation involvement prevalence and severity increased with age; mobility was uncommon.
- Plaque and gingival indices remained high and increased significantly with age.
- Radiographs indicated horizontal and isolated vertical bone loss.
- Naturally occurring periodontitis increased in severity with age.
Conclusions:
- Baboons exhibit naturally occurring periodontitis that progresses with age.
- The baboon's periodontal disease progression and characteristics suggest suitability as a model for human periodontal disease research.