Detection of Virulence Factors of Porphyromonas gingivalis and Periodontal Diseases in Chronic Disease Patients

Abstract Background: Porphyromonas gingivalis is a prominent pathogen associated with periodontal diseases, particularly in patients with chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension. Objectives: This study aims to investigate the virulence factors of P. gingivalis and their correlation with periodontal disease severity in these patient populations. Materials and Methods: A total of 100 patients diagnosed with chronic periodontal disease were selected, with equal representation of males and females suffering from either diabetes or hypertension. Clinical samples were collected from subgingival pockets using sterile instruments and cultured on selective anaerobic media, specifically Kanamycin-Vancomycin Blood Agar (KVBA), to isolate P. gingivalis . The protease activity, particularly from gingipains, was assessed through a series of biochemical assays, measuring absorbance at 405 nm to quantify enzyme concentrations. Results: Results indicated a significant increase in protease levels in samples from diabetic patients compared to those with hypertension, suggesting a stronger association between P. gingivalis virulence and periodontal disease severity in diabetes. Statistical analysis revealed a notable correlation between the concentration of proteases and the type of chronic disease, highlighting the role of P. gingivalis in exacerbating periodontal conditions. Conclusion: Results of this study indicated a significant increase in protease levels in samples from diabetic patients compared to those with hypertension, suggesting a stronger association between P. gingivalis virulence and periodontal disease severity in diabetes.