Clinical, radiographic and biochemical assessment of IL-1/TNF-α antagonist inhibition of bone loss in experimental periodontitis

Objectives: To assess clinical, radiographic, and biochemical markers as diagnostic indicators of disease activity by comparing ligature‐induced bone loss in the presence or absence of IL‐1/TNF‐α antagonist inhibition of bone loss in a primate model. Material and Methods: 6 animals with a naturally‐occurring gingivitis were evaluated over a 6‐week time period following the placement of silk ligatures and initiation of a soft diet. Three animals received intrapapillary injections of soluble receptors (blockers), capable of blocking the biologic activity for both IL‐1 and TNF‐α, and 3 animals received vehicle (control) injections. Injections were given 3× per week over the course of the study. Clinical assessments included a gingival index and quantification of gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) levels. Collected GCF samples were then used in the biochemical assessment of pyridinoline (PYD) and bone alkaline phosphatase (BAP). Radiographic assessment was made using computer‐assisted subtraction radiography to measure both bone density (CADIA) values and linear changes in crestal bone height. Results: Significant (p