Volume 4, Issue 4 p. 242-250
Perspective

Inflammation and Alzheimer's disease: Possible role of periodontal diseases

Angela R. Kamer

Corresponding Author

Angela R. Kamer

Department of Periodontology and Implant Dentistry, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY, USA

Corresponding author. Tel.: 212-998-9868; fax: 212-995-4603.

E-mail address: [email protected]

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Ronald G. Craig

Ronald G. Craig

Department of Periodontology and Implant Dentistry, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY, USA

Department of Basic Sciences and Craniofacial Biology, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY, USA

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Ananda P. Dasanayake

Ananda P. Dasanayake

Department of Epidemiology and Health Promotion, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY, USA

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Miroslaw Brys

Miroslaw Brys

Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY, USA

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Lidia Glodzik-Sobanska

Lidia Glodzik-Sobanska

Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY, USA

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Mony J. de Leon

Mony J. de Leon

Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY, USA

Nathan Kline Institute, Orangeburg, NY, USA

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First published: 21 December 2007
Citations: 235

Abstract

The molecular and cellular mechanisms responsible for the etiology and pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) have not been defined; however, inflammation within the brain is thought to play a pivotal role. Studies suggest that peripheral infection/inflammation might affect the inflammatory state of the central nervous system. Chronic periodontitis is a prevalent peripheral infection that is associated with gram-negative anaerobic bacteria and the elevation of serum inflammatory markers including C-reactive protein. Recently, chronic periodontitis has been associated with several systemic diseases including AD. In this article we review the pathogenesis of chronic periodontitis and the role of inflammation in AD. In addition, we propose several potential mechanisms through which chronic periodontitis can possibly contribute to the clinical onset and progression of AD. Because chronic periodontitis is a treatable infection, it might be a readily modifiable risk factor for AD.