AIM2 and IFI16 as nucleic acid sensors in Periodontitis-Driven systemic inflammation: emerging evidence and therapeutic implications.

OBJECTIVES

This review aims to investigate the roles of Absent in Melanoma 2 (AIM2) and Interferon Gamma Inducible Protein 16 (IFI16), as innate immune sensors for cytosolic double-stranded DNA (dsDNA), in the pathogenesis of periodontal disease. Furthermore, this article discusses the significance of these proteins in the interplay between periodontal disease and systemic health conditions.

DATA SOURCES: This review comprehensively analyzes the involvement of AIM2 and IFI16 in the pathogenesis of periodontal disease, particularly their roles in inflammasome formation and the promotion of IL-1 secretion, through a review of relevant literature. A literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases. Search terms included "AIM2," "IFI16," "periodontitis," "inflammasome," and "systemic inflammation." Only English-language original research articles and reviews were included.

STUDY SELECTION: Studies related to AIM2 and IFI16, especially those examining their roles in periodontitis and systemic diseases, were selected for analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Evidence indicates that several inflammasomes, including AIM2 and IFI16, are involved in the pathogenesis of periodontal disease. Polymorphisms in AIM2 and IFI16 genes are linked to an increased severity of periodontal disease. These inflammasomes respond to pathogen or tissue "danger" signals by creating multiprotein complexes that cleave the proinflammatory mediator IL-1 into its active form. The study highlights the pivotal role of AIM2 and IFI16 in periodontitis and systemic diseases, particularly in how they shift from homeostasis to disease states in both periodontitis and systemic conditions.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Given that periodontitis is an inflammatory dysbiosis illness affecting overall health, research into inflammasomes like AIM2 and IFI16 is not only significant for understanding the pathogenesis of periodontal disease but also holds clinical relevance in preventing and treating related systemic conditions.