Periodontitis-Induced Elevations in Trimethylamine N-Oxide Levels: Implications for Liquid Biopsy-Based Diagnostics

Ceran Serdar C., Güney Z., Balcı N., Altıngöz S. M., Kurgan Ş., Serdar M. A.

The International Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research (IADR), California, United States Of America, 13 - 16 March 2024, pp.1-2, (Summary Text)

  • Publication Type: Conference Paper / Summary Text
  • City: California
  • Country: United States Of America
  • Page Numbers: pp.1-2
  • Istanbul Medipol University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Objectives

Periodontopathogens can enter the systemic circulation through ulcerated pocket epithelium or because of ingestion of saliva microbiota. Ingested periodontopathogens disrupt the balance of the intestinal microbiota and increase the synthesis of pro-inflammatory active molecules like Trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO). TMAO is a pro-inflammatory metabolite resulting from the bacterial metabolism of choline-rich foods and has been shown to contribute to vascular inflammation and endothelial dysfunction. Therefore, it is considered a predictive factor for heart disease. The aim of our study is to evaluate possible changes in serum and saliva TMAO levels and the potential use of salivary TMAO levels in determining the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Methods

Saliva and serum samples were collected from 24 Stage III Grade B periodontitis patients and 24 periodontally healthy control individuals. Clinical periodontal parameters (probing pocket depth, bleeding on probing, clinical attachment level) were recorded. Samples were analyzed for TNF-α by Enzyme-Linked ImmunoSorbent Assay (ELISA) and for TMAO by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS).

Results

Salivary and serum TMAO levels and salivary TNF-α levels were statistically significantly higher in the periodontitis group compared to the control group (p=0.003, p=0.004, and p= 0.031; respectively). Salivary and serum TMAO levels were significantly positively correlated with salivary TNF-α levels (p<0.05). Serum TMAO levels were significantly positively correlated with salivary TMAO levels (p<0.001). Clinical periodontal parameters were significantly positively correlated with salivary biochemical parameters. Salivary TMAO was the most accurate biomarker in differentiating between periodontitis and controls.

Conclusions

Considering TMAO's role as a metabolite linked to an increased propensity for atherosclerosis development, salivary TMAO analysis holds considerable promise for monitoring cardiovascular events.

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