Matrix Matalloproteinase-8 Gene Polymorphism in Chronic Periapical Lesions

Background/Aim: Increased levels of matrix metalloproteinase-8 (MMP-8) have been associated with risk of developing chronic periapical lesion (CPL). Gene polymorphisms are contributing factors in the pathogenesis of the inflammation. The aim of this study was to analyze polymorphism in the gene MMP-8 and its association and influence on clinical manifestation of CPL.

Methods: A total of 240 unrelated Macedonian subjects were included in the present study. Polymorphism -799 C/T in the gene MMP-8 detected with restriction enzyme BgIII was studied in 120 patients with CPL and 120 controls without any signs of chronic or acute inflammatory process in the jaw. The amplification of the region of selected gene was made with polymerase chain reactionrestriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP).

Results: Our results showed that there were differences in the allele and genotype frequencies of the MMP8 -799 C/T polymorphisms between patients with CPL and controls (p < 0.05). Also this study suggests that MMP-8 polymorphism -799 C/T was a risk for expression of CPL (OR=8.27<3.44<OR<20.26).

Conclusion: The detection of this genetic polymorphism is relevant for obtaining providential treatment of patients who are at high risk of chronic periapical inflammation.