Immunological Biomarkers IL-34, MCP-1, and MIP-1α: Age and Sex Associations in Periodontitis Patients

Periodontitis is a common osteolytic disease and the leading cause of adult tooth loss. The disease's susceptibility can be influenced by systemic factors, with age and sex being significant factors. The current study assessed the correlations between interleukins and age and sex in periodontitis patients. A total of 85 periodontitis patients and 40 healthy individuals aged between 18 and 67 years were included to examine statistical correlations between interleukins and age/sex in periodontitis. Using ELISA techniques, levels of IL-34, MCP-1, and MIP-1α in serum and gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) were assessed. Statistical analyses, including the Kruskal-Wallis Test, Mann-Whitney Test, and Chi-square Test, were conducted to ascertain relationships among immunological markers, age, and sex, with significance set at P≤0.05. The results revealed significant age correlations with IL-34 concentrations in serum and GCF, notably increasing in patients aged 40-54. Conversely, no substantial age-based variances were observed in MCP-1 or MIP-1α levels within the patient group. Sex effect on IL-34 production, demonstrating higher levels in patients compared to healthy individuals. Conversely, MCP-1 and MIP-1α levels showed no significant sex-related variations within patients. In conclusion, this study underscores a positive association between age and IL-34 levels in serum and GCF among periodontitis patients. Additionally, it underscores the sex impact on IL-34 production. These findings contribute to comprehending the immunological mechanisms of periodontitis and the role of age and sex in disease susceptibility. Further exploration is needed to assess these findings' implications in tailoring personalized treatment approaches for periodontitis.