Distribution of human lactoferrin in periodontal pockets

摘要

Periodontopathic bacteria endotoxin permeates dental root surfaces exposed to periodontal pockets, eliciting an inflammatory response. Human lactoferrin (hli) inhibits interaction between LPS and CD14; thus, hLf released by neutrophils may participate in the inflammatory response. The present study examined the distribution of hLf in periodontal pockets and its roles in the pathogenesis of periodontitis. Nineteen teeth not salvageable by periodontal treatment were extracted with informed consent of the patients. Five extracted teeth were incubated with anti-hLf antibody and Alexa 532-conjugated secondary antibody; subsequently, fluorescence was measured. Powdered samples were prepared from 14 extracted roots. Samples were partitioned into 3 groups based on location: layers I, II, and III (from the root surface to the pulp cavity). Samples were then washed with PBS; hLf and endotoxin levels in the supernatant were measured.