Analysis of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP-8 and MMP-2) activity in gingival crevicular fluid from children with Down's syndrome

Yamazaki‐Kubota T, Miyamoto M, Sano Y, Kusumoto M, Yonezu T, Sugita K, Okuda K, Yakushiji M, Ishihara K. Analysis of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP‐8 and MMP‐2) activity in gingival crevicular fluid from children with Down’s syndrome. J Periodont Res 2010; doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐0765.2009.01214.x. © 2009 John Wiley & Sons A/S Background and Objective: High levels of colonization by periodontopathic bacteria and a high prevalence of chronic inflammatory periodontal disease have been reported in children with Down’s syndrome. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are mediators of extracellular matrix degradation and remodelling, and are deeply involved in the course of periodontal disease. To clarify the relationship between Down’s syndrome and periodontitis, we investigated levels of MMP‐2 and MMP‐8 in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) and detection of periodontopathic bacteria from subgingival plaque. Material and Methods: Samples of GCF and plaque were isolated from central incisors. Levels of MMPs were evaluated by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, and periodontopathic bacteria were detected by polymerase chain reaction. Results: Levels of MMP‐2 and MMP‐8 in Down’s syndrome patients were higher than those in healthy control subjects. In the Down’s syndrome group, increases in these MMPs were observed in GCF from patients with an oral hygiene index score of