Adipokines in Periodontal disease – Culprits or Accomplice?

Abstract

Periodontitis is a disease of periodontium resulting from pathogenic microorganisms combined with other risk factors. For many years, the relationship of obesity with periodontal disease has been debated. Recently, obesity is considered a risk factor for periodontitis. The pathomechanistic association studies have shown a link between adipose tissue secreted adipokines and periodontal disease, although the inherent mechanisms are obscure. Thus, this review aims to get an overview of the association between adipokines and periodontal disease. Adipokines, bioactive molecules secreted by adipose tissue, regulate energy outflow and insulin sensitivity apart from modulation of inflammation and healing. Obesity causes chronic low-grade inflammation and increases adipokines. Recent studies have also shown that adipokines, such as leptin, adiponectin, and visfatin, could play a role in periodontal disease progression and may be used as biomarkers. They increase the production of pro-inflammatory factors, creating a hyperinflammatory state that affects systemic diseases and enhances the risk for periodontitis and compromises healing post periodontal therapy. Understanding the function of adipokines may better help us interpret the triad of obesity with periodontitis and type 2 diabetes. Moreover, periodontal disease treatment may imply positive effects on the overall health of the individual.