Genetic polymorphism studies in periodontitis and Fcγ receptors

J Periodontal Res. 2012 Jun;47(3):273-85. doi: 10.1111/j.1600-0765.2011.01437.x. Epub 2011 Nov 27.

Abstract

Periodontitis is a complex chronic subgingival plaque-induced inflammatory disease influenced by multiple factors, including genetics, behavior and the environment. Many genetic association studies have been conducted in periodontology. One of the most extensively investigated gene families is the Fcγ receptor gene family, which plays a key role in regulating host immune responses to bacteria. Unlike other genetic polymorphisms reported in periodontology, most Fcγ receptor polymorphisms reported not only have established biological functions but are reported to associate with other autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. There are, however, few recent reviews summarizing the association of this gene family with periodontitis. This article critically reviews the current understanding of genetic polymorphism studies in periodontitis, then summarizes the research status of Fcγ receptor polymorphisms and periodontitis and also of other genes involved in the regulatory network of Fcγ receptors, with special reference to their anticipated biological roles. Moreover, some possible future research directions in the related area are discussed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aggressive Periodontitis / genetics
  • Chronic Periodontitis / genetics
  • Cytokines / genetics
  • Gene Expression Regulation / genetics
  • Genetic Variation / genetics
  • Humans
  • Periodontitis / immunology*
  • Polymorphism, Genetic / genetics*
  • Receptors, IgG / genetics*

Substances

  • Cytokines
  • Receptors, IgG