Subversion of the Oral Microbiota and Induction of Immune-Mediated Systemic Inflammation with Special Reference to Periodontitis. Current Knowledge and Perspectives

BACKGROUND

Under steady state circumstances, the oral microbiota is in equilibrium with host tissues, thus contributing to local and systemic health. Any interruption of such equilibrium leads to a condition of dysbiosis with proliferation of oral pathogens able to cause gingivitis and periodontal disease. Dysbiosis-related disease: The mechanisms of periodontitis will be described, mostly emphasizing the noxious effects exerted by oral pathogens on the periodontium either directly or indirectly via release of an array of mediators, even including pro-inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, and enzymes. The persistence of local inflammation ultimately leads to a systemic inflammation and, therefore, the link between periodontitis and obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease will be elucidated. Treatment with natural products: Some natural compounds, such as polyphenols, prebiotics and probiotics will be discussed for their ability to exert anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant activities in the context of the inflamed buccal cavity and systemically, as well as for their modulation of the altered gum-gut microbiota.