Dr. Liran Levin, University of Alberta
Dr. Matthew Morris, Dalhousie University
Dr. Antonio Nanci, University of Montreal
In this latest CADR Roundtable discussion, Dr. Liran Levin, Dr. Matthew Morris, and Dr. Antonio Nanci present exciting new developments in periodontal research and discuss some of the challenges facing dental research in Canada and across the world.
They also discuss the growing body of evidence linking oral health with general health, and highlight the importance of ongoing collaboration between dentists and their medical counterparts.
Here is a brief synopsis of the current research projects the participants are working on…
Dr. Matthew Morris, Dalhousie University
OMEGA 3 FATTY ACIDS
- Research suggests that omega 3 fatty acids play a role in reducing inflammation in periodontal tissues and in overall systemic health, including arthritis, type 2 diabetes, and some coronary heart diseases.
- The hope is that omega 3 fatty acids may be a beneficial adjunct to non-surgical periodontal treatment and will promote a more preventative approach.
Dr. Liran Levin, University of Alberta
HOST MODULATION
- There are differences in susceptibility to periodontal disease between different patient populations. Some patients with a lot of plaque do not exhibit any attachment loss or inflammation, whereas others with barely any plaque present with severe bone loss.
EPITHELIAL BARRIER FUNCTION
- Currently studying the influence of epithelial barrier function on the development and progression of periodontal disease.
- Loricrin is a protein that is very abundant in the epithelium. Some down regulation of loricrin has been observed in patients with severe periodontal disease.
Dr. Antonio Nanci, University of Montreal
EXTRACELLULAR MATRIX
- There is an extracellular matrix which is critical in making the epithelium adhere to the surface of the tooth.
- The molecules that make up this matrix can be destroyed by certain bacteria and the enzymes they produce, including P Gingivalis.
- However, one component molecule of the matrix is actually bactericidal against P Gingivalis. This molecule may be part of the innate immune response of the body.
We hope you find the conversation useful. We welcome your thoughts, questions and/or suggestions about this post and other topics. Leave a comment in the box below or send us your feedback by email.
Until next time!
CDA Oasis Team
