Genetics and Aggressive Periodontal Disease: An Update Review

Abstract

ABSTRACT Periodontitis is an inflammatory condition of supporting tissues of teeth, for which several risk and susceptibility factors are proposed. Periodontal disease results when balance between host factors and etiologic agents is disrupted. Bacteria have a primary role in the initiation of periodontal disease, and a range of host related factors influence the clinical presentation and rate of progression of disease. Genetic variations that modify immunological reactions identify the disease susceptibility in various individuals. Many studies have proved the effect of various single or composite nucleotide polymorphisms to susceptibility, progression or severity of periodontal diseases. Despite these studies, association between periodontal disease and candidate genes is still not clear. The reports of familial nature of chronic periodontitis are less frequent as compared to aggressive periodontitis. The striking familial aggregation of trait in aggressive periodontitis is consistent with significant genetic etiology. In this paper, an attempt has been made to summarize recent views on various genes involved in the pathogenesis and progression of aggressive periodontal disease. Data were identified by searches of the Medline, and Pubmed. Articles published in English were selected, and most up-to-date or relevant references were chosen.