Perio-Inflammation in Auto-Antibodies and T-Cell Mediated Oro-Pharyngeal Mucositis

Dear Colleagues,

The ever-evolving literature on the role of chronic systemic inflammation in many systemic pathologies (cardiovascular diseases, preterm birth/low birth weight, obesity, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, Alzheimer's diseases) have shown a one-to-one correlation with chronic oral infections, and mainly with periodontal diseases. Chronic inflammation is characterized by an unlimited production of cytokines, growth factors and reactive oxygen/nitrogen compounds which, in the end, favor a "loss of function" following destruction, fibrosis and/or tissue and organ necrosis.

Periodontal inflammation is mainly mediated by neutrophils, monocytes/macrophages, T and B lymphocytes. The activation of the different T lymphocyte subgroups is crucial for the onset and progression of the periodontal lesion. Cytokines secreted by T lymphocytes can induce clonal activation of B lymphocytes, which act as APC cells and produce antibodies that recognize bacterial components, protecting periodontal tissues, however, the release of autoantibodies directed against collagen, fibronectin and laminin can, in turn, contribute to the local destruction of the gum tissue.

The complex mechanism and interaction between T and B cells in extra-oral sites are respectively the pathogenetic processes of two large groups of chronic diseases with oral involvement or with a rapid onset on the oral mucosa: blistering oro-pharyngeal IgG/IgA mediated diseases (Pemphigus vulgaris, Mucous Membrane Pemphigoid, IgA disease, Multiform Erythema are the most frequent) and cell-mediated interface mucositis (True Lichen Planus, drug-related lichenoid lesions, Graft versus host disease oral lichenoid lesions, Lupus Systemic Erythematous lichenoid lesions and Oral Dysplasia are the most frequent).

We particularly welcome articles providing new insights into (i) clinical/lab researches on the the correlation between periodontal diseases and T and B cell-mediated diseases; (ii) perio inflammation index evaluations in T and B cell-mediated diseases; (iii) clinical management of patients with T or B mediated perio/mucositis inflammation.

We welcome both solicited and unsolicited submissions that will contribute to this goal.

Prof. Dr. Stefania Leuci
Prof. Dr. Gianrico Spagnuolo
Guest Editors

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