Effect of Treatment of Chronic Periodontitis on Levels of MMP-9

Objectives: Periodontitis is a typical inflammatory disease and is influenced by inflammatory factors. Some inflammatory biomarkers, such as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) were found to have important influences on periodontitis. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect on MMP-9 levels in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) and in plasma by phase I periodontal therapy. Materials and Methods: GCF and plasma samples were collected from 16 patients with periodontitits at baseline and after the one-month period of phase I periodontal therapy. Periodontal parameters were also recorded at the time of sample collection. The MMP-9 levels were measured with commercial ELISA kit. Results: All patients showed statistically significant reductions in periodontal parameters following the phase I periodontal therapy. In all patients, the reduction of GCF [(total amount, p=0.003) and concentration (p=0.029)] and plasma [concentration, (p=0.018)] MMP-9 levels after therapy were statistically significant compared to baseline levels. The changes of gingival index and MMP-9 level in GCF had significantly positive relationship. Conclusion: There were significant differences in GCF and plasma MMP-9 levels between before and after periodontal therapy. Further studies with larger sample size are necessary to understand the more definite relationship between periondotitis and MMP-9. This study was supported by Chung-Ho Memorial Hospital Grant.