The trefoil factor family 1 (TFF-1) and 3 (TFF-3) are upregulated in the saliva, gingival crevicular fluid and serum of periodontitis patients

Objective This study aimed to investigate the levels of trefoil factor family (TFF)-1, TFF-3 and interleukin (IL)-1 beta in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF), saliva and serum of patients with gingivitis, stage 3 periodontitis and healthy individuals. Materials and Methods A total of 100 individuals consisting of 25 periodontally healthy, 25 gingivitis and 50 stage 3 periodontitis, were enrolled in the study. Clinical periodontal examinations were recorded and GCF, saliva and serum samples were obtained. TFF-1, TFF-3 and IL-1 beta were measured by ELISA. Results TFF-1 and TFF-3 levels in both GCF, saliva and serum were higher in periodontitis patients than healthy controls (p < .001) and gingivitis group (p < .01). The levels of these peptides in all biofluids were similar between gingivitis and healthy control groups (p > .05). GCF, saliva and serum IL-1 beta levels were also higher in periodontitis patients than the controls (p < .01). Periodontitis patients had elevated GCF and saliva IL-beta levels than gingivitis group (p < .001). Conclusion Elevated TFF-1 and TFF-3 levels both locally and systemically in periodontitis in parallel to increased IL-1 beta levels might suggest that these peptides are involved in host response during the periodontal tissue destruction.

Automated summary

This study found elevated levels of TFF-1, TFF-3, and IL-1 beta in periodontitis patients compared to healthy controls and gingivitis group across GCF, saliva, and serum samples. These findings suggest the involvement of these peptides in host response during periodontal tissue destruction.