Gingival Crevicular Fluid Oxidized Low-Density Lipoprotein Levels in Health and Stage III/IV Periodontitis

Gingival Crevicular Fluid Oxidized Low-Density Lipoprotein Levels in Health and Stage III/IV Periodontitis: A Cross-Sectional Comparative Study

Periodontitis is a chronic, multifactorial inflammatory disease primarily caused by dysbiotic plaque biofilms, characterized by the progressive destruction of the supporting structures of the teeth. In advanced stages (Stage III/IV), periodontitis leads to significant attachment and bone loss, often culminating in tooth loss and a negative impact on the patient's quality of life. Recent evidence has emphasized the systemic implications of periodontal inflammation, suggesting a bidirectional relationship between periodontitis and various systemic conditions, especially cardiovascular diseases

Oxidative stress has emerged as a key pathogenic mechanism linking periodontal inflammation with systemic diseases. Among the oxidative stress-related biomarkers, oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) has gained attention due to its pro-inflammatory, atherogenic, and cytotoxic properties. oxLDL is known to accumulate in vascular walls and contributes to the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis. Its role in periodontal disease, however, remains less well characterized. Gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) is a non-invasive biological fluid that reflects the inflammatory status of the periodontal tissues. Measuring oxLDL levels in GCF may provide valuable insight into the local oxidative burden associated with periodontal destruction. It may also help elucidate the mechanistic link between periodontal and systemic inflammatory diseases. While several studies have investigated oxLDL levels in serum in patients with periodontitis, only limited data exist regarding its levels in GCF, particularly among elderly populations who are more prone to both periodontitis and oxidative stress-related diseases. Understanding these levels could provide novel biomarkers for disease severity and progression, potentially guiding future preventive and therapeutic strategies The detection of elevated oxLDL levels in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) could therefore serve as a meaningful, site-specific biomarker for disease activity and severity in older populations. Investigating this relationship could enhance our understanding of the oxidative mechanisms underpinning periodontal breakdown and help identify new diagnostic or prognostic markers, particularly in geriatric patients with complex medical profiles Aim of the Study To compare the levels of oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) between healthy individuals and patients with Stage III/IV periodontitis.

Inclusion Criteria:

• For all participants (applies to both groups):

  1. Age 30-60 years.
  2. Systemically healthy (based on medical history and physician clearance, if needed).
  3. No history of periodontal treatment within the last 6 months.

Exclusion Criteria:

• 1. History of systemic diseases affecting periodontium (e.g., uncontrolled diabetes, autoimmune diseases, osteoporosis).

  2. Current or past diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease or other neurodegenerative disorders.

  3. Use of medications affecting periodontal status (e.g., immunosuppressants, long-term corticosteroids, anticonvulsants).

  4. Antibiotic or anti-inflammatory therapy within the past 3 months. 5. Current smokers or history of smoking in the past year.