Are antimicrobial peptides related to cyclosporine A-induced gingival overgrowth?

Abstract

ObjectiveThe aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of cyclosporine-A (CsA) medication on gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) LL-37, human neutrophil peptide (HNP)1-3 and adrenomedullin (ADM) levels. DesignCsA-treated renal transplant recipients with GO (CsA GO+) and without GO (CsA GO−), tacrolimus-medicated renal transplant recipients (n=20/group), systemically healthy subjects with gingivitis (n=21) and individuals free of periodontal and systemic diseases (n=20) were included in the present study. Periodontal parameters were recorded and GCF samples were obtained from the study participants. GCF LL-37, HNP1-3 and ADM levels were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. ResultsGCF LL-37 total amount was higher at GO+ sites than the other study sites (p<0.05). Total amount of GCF HNP1-3 was higher in immunosuppressive treatment groups than healthy and gingivitis groups, regardless of GO presence (p<0.05). GCF ADM total amount was similar in all study groups. GCF volume, papillary bleeding index and hyperplastic index (p<0.05) were significantly correlated with GCF LL-37 total amounts (p<0.05), but not with GCF HNP1-3 and ADM total amount at GO+ sites (p>0.05). ConclusionNeutrophil infiltration due to extended inflammation might have increased GCF LL-37 levels at GO+ sites and contributed to the pathogenesis of CsA-induced GO.