Trans-resveratrol (3,5,4′-trihydroxy-trans-stilbene) (RES) is a plant polyphenol that has been well documented for its anti-oxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging properties. Moreover, compelling evidence presented in the abundance of pre-clinical studies using ligature-induced periodontitis models has positioned RES as a theoretically viable candidate for the reduction of the chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and tissue destruction seen in periodontitis (PD). However, the instability of RES under physiological conditions, as well as its rapid hepatic clearance, has presented as a challenge to its ubiquitous application as an oral therapeutic in clinical practice. Fortunately, with the application of nanotechnology, the pharmacological profile of RES repositions the phytochemical from an herb-based supplement, useful as an adjunct therapy, to a stable and potent nanomedicine, demonstrating efficacy for the prevention and treatment of PD and its associated systemic diseases. This chapter explores the details of the potential for nano-RES as a viable therapeutic for PD.

Periodontitis is a globally prevalent inflammation-mediated disease that can result in varying degrees of destruction to the tissues supporting the teeth. The microbial pathogenic dysbiosis, oxidative stress, and deregulated inflammation, found in patients with periodontitis, make it a multifaceted condition that is difficult to fully resolve. Further to this, periodontitis has been associated with other systemic inflammatory conditions. Trans-resveratrol (3,5,4′-trihydroxy-trans-stilbene) is a plant-derived molecule present in many foods, which have been shown to exhibit antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and regenerative properties. However, trans-resveratrol has been reported to have physicochemical shortcomings, which make its clinical translation a challenge. This review outlines a critical analysis of identified samples from the scientific literature that was conducted to assess the potential of RES as a viable therapeutic for periodontitis. The potential for the improvement of the limiting pharmacological profile of trans-resveratrol via nanoformulation is also explored.