Matrix metalloproteinase 9 level changes in gingival crevicular fluid samples of teeth with acute and chronic apical periodontitis

Abstract

Background: This study investigates the influence of dental pulp and periapical status on
inflammatory mediators, particularly matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which contribute to tissue
destruction around the teeth and the development of periodontitis. This study aimed to compare
MMP‑9 levels in the gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) between the cases of acute apical periodontitis,
chronic apical periodontitis, and healthy controls before and after root canal treatment (RCT).
Materials and Methods: This prospective, cohort study involved 19 samples each of acute and
chronic periodontitis cases, both before and after RCT, along with 18 samples from healthy control
teeth. The samples were collected from the GCF using paper cones. After 2 weeks of RCT, the
process was repeated. MMP‑9 levels were measured using the enzyme‑linked immunosorbent assay
technique. Statistical analysis was performed using the paired t‑test and analysis of variance test
and the significance level was set at < 0.05.
Results: Before treatment, there was no significant difference in MMP‑9 levels between the
healthy (0.476 μg/μL) and acute (0.48 μg/μL) groups; however, significant differences were observed
between the healthy and chronic (0.534 μg/μL) groups. In addition, MMP‑9 levels differed significantly
between the acute and chronic groups before treatment. Post‑treatment, the healthy group showed
no notable difference compared to either patient group. However, a significant difference was
observed between the acute (0.445 μg/μL) and chronic (0.491 μg/μL) groups after treatment.
Conclusion: Our findings suggest that MMP‑9 levels in GCF increase during periapical inflammation
and decrease after endodontic treatment. MMP‑9 may serve as a potential diagnostic biomarker
for pulp and periapical inflammation, enhancing our understanding of these clinical conditions and
informing future therapeutic strategies.
Key Words: Gingival crevicular fluid, matrix metalloproteinase‑9, periapical periodontitis

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Amirabbas Moshari: Pubmed,Google Scholar