Fall Research Expo 2023

Effect of Adipokines on Post-Dental Implant Inflammation Levels

Our recent research findings demonstrate increased inflammation in overweight and obese patients following oral implant surgery, in comparison to individuals with a healthy weight. Nevertheless, the mechanisms that establish the connection between body weight and the inflammatory response, as well as recovery subsequent to implant surgery, remain elusive.

Adipokines, including leptin and adiponectin, originating from adipose tissue, have established associations with both obesity and inflammation. As a result, our study sought to explore the influence of these adipokines on inflammation levels subsequent to implant surgery.

For this study, we examined a cohort of 30 adults undergoing dental implant procedures. Sample collections were conducted both before the surgery (t=Baseline) and post-surgery ( t=0, 1, 2, 4, 6, 24, and 72 hours). Participants were randomly assigned to either the Naproxen Sodium or Acetaminophen Groups. Proinflammatory cytokines (IL-8, IL-1β) in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) and leptin and adiponectin in plasma were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). 

Our findings revealed a significant impact of BMI on post-implant inflammation. Patients with a BMI exceeding 25 kg/m^2 exhibited increased inflammation, with the peak difference observed 24 hours after the surgery. Additionally, Subjects with higher BMI were associated with lower adiponectin 24 hours post-surgery and elevated baseline and post-surgery leptin. There was also a significant reduction in plasma leptin levels from baseline to 24 hours post-surgery.

Moving forward, our subsequent research aims to leverage cell culture techniques and scratch assays to replicate the intricate process of wound healing in vitro. By introducing physiological concentrations of adiponectin and leptin as stimulants, we intend to closely monitor the resulting inflammatory responses across various adipokine concentrations. This initiative is anticipated to provide insights into the cellular mechanisms that underlie the observed influence of BMI on post-implant inflammation, potentially paving the way for tailored treatment that promote better patient outcome.

PRESENTED BY
College Alumni Society Undergraduate Research Grant
College of Arts & Sciences 2024
Advised By
Katherine N. Theken
Assistant Professor of Pharmacology
PRESENTED BY
College Alumni Society Undergraduate Research Grant
College of Arts & Sciences 2024
Advised By
Katherine N. Theken
Assistant Professor of Pharmacology

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