The cytolethal distending toxin induces receptor activator of NF-kappaB ligand expression in human gingival fibroblasts and periodontal ligament cells.

ABSTRACT: Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans is associated with localized aggressive periodontitis, a disease characterized by rapid loss of the alveolar bone surrounding the teeth. Receptor activator of NF-kappaB Ligand (RANKL) and osteoprotegerin (OPG) are two molecules that regulate osteoclast formation and bone resorption. RANKL induces osteoclast differentiation and activation, whereas OPG blocks this process by acting as a decoy receptor for RANKL. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of A. actinomycetemcomitans on the expression of RANKL and OPG in human gingival fibroblasts and periodontal ligament cells. RANKL mRNA expression was induced in both cell types challenged by A. actinomycetemcomitans extract, whereas OPG mRNA expression remained unaffected. Cell surface RANKL

SUBMITTER: Belibasakis GN 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC538937 | biostudies-literature | 2005 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature