New knowledge of the pathogenesis of periodontal disease

The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between the accumulation of interleukins IL-1ß, TNF-α, IL-8, and chemokine RANTES (Regulated upon Activation Normal T-cell Expressed and Secreted) in gingival fluid and periodontal support tissues in patients with periodontitis. A review is also provided of apoptotic processes as events of major importance, highlighting the presence of TUNEL cells and ultrastructural morphologic changes associated with cell apoptosis. There appears to be further evidence to support the important role of inflammation control. Cytokines may be considered as markers of the progression and severity of periodontitis as well as indicators of an appropiate response to treatment. However, further studies are needed to support and characterize this concept.