Targeting the complement system in the management of periodontal disease

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease triggered by microbial antigens colonizing the root surface and pocket epithelium. While mechanotherapy aimed at debridement of root surface biofilms remains the primary treatment, adjunctive therapies targeting host immune responses have gained attention in recent years. The complement system, a key component of innate immunity, plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of periodontal disease by amplifying inflammatory responses and modulating immune cell activity.