Salivary and serum concentrations of monocyte chemoattractant Protein‐1, macrophage inhibitory factor and fractalkine in relation to rheumatoid arthritis and periodontitis

Background Monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), and fractalkine are chemokines that are expressed by a variety of cell types to regulate macrophage inflammatory response. The aim of the study was to examine the effects of periodontitis and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) on their serum and salivary concentrations. Methods Adults with either periodontitis (P, n = 21), or with rheumatoid arthritis (RA, n = 23), or with both diseases (RA+P, n = 23) were included in the study. Systemically and periodontally healthy individuals (n = 22) were served as controls. Saliva and serum samples were collected from all participants before the medical and periodontal examinations. Salivary and serum MCP-1, MIF, and fractalkine concentrations were measured by the Luminex technique. Total salivary protein levels were determined by the Bradford assay. Results Salivary MCP-1, MIF, and fractalkine concentrations were elevated in both RA groups (RA+P and RA) in comparison to systemically healthy controls. As related to total salivary protein levels, higher MCP-1 (P = 0.003) and fractalkine (P = 0.045) concentrations were found in controls compared to the P group. In serum, MCP-1 concentrations in the RA+P group were higher (P = 0.003) than those of group P. Elevated serum fractalkine concentrations were observed in both periodontitis groups (RA+P, P = 0.014 and P, P = 0.013) compared to controls. Conclusion In RA, MCP-1, MIF, and fractalkine concentrations are elevated in saliva. These chemokines may disrupt oral macrophage responses and potentially take part in the interaction between periodontitis and RA. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.