title: Epigenetics and Periodontitis: A Contemporary Review.
abstract: Periodontitis is characterized by infection and inflammation of the tooth supporting structures. Few signs of susceptibility and recurrence after treatment are seen due to the outgrowth of various pathogenic microorganisms. Many studies have been done to understand the genetic basis of periodontal disease. An increased risk for periodontitis has been shown with the variations in genes related to the inflammatory response. Interestingly, some of the genes regulated by epigenetic modifications are modified in response to environmental stimuli. Conditions such as cancer, autoimmune or inflammatory diseases have been dispensed by epigenetic mechanisms. The understanding of these molecular mechanisms and the early detection of susceptibility may guide in future periodontal disease treatment and prevention.
authors.affiliation: Reader, Department of Periodontology, Meenakshi Ammal Dental College and Hospital , Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India .
authors.forename: Geetha
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Ari
authors.affiliation: Postgraduate Student, Meenakshi Ammal Dental College and Hospital , Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India .
authors.forename: Sandhya
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Cherukuri
authors.affiliation: Professor and Head, Department of Periodontology, Meenakshi Ammal Dental College and Hospital , Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India .
authors.forename: Ambalavanan
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Namasivayam
keywords: DNA methylation; Future implications; Histone modification