Origins and effects of aMMP-8

Bacteria of the dental biofilm (hard and soft dental plaque) release bacterial proteins that can irritate gums. As a result, the immune system of the periodontal tissue releases endogenous mediators (interleukins and prostaglandins, for example), which react defensively by setting in motion an inflammatory cascade. A component of this oral immune response is the discharge of defense cells (granulocytes = polymorphnuclear neutrophils) and the activation of MMP-8 to aMMP-8.

One goal of active MMP-8 is to make gingival tissue so permeable for the defense cells that they find their way to the attacking bacteria in the biofilm at the gum line. Depending on a variety of factors (genetic, acquired and environmental factors), this process can lead to a chronic overreaction to the bacterial attack.

The activated matrix metalloproteinase-8 (aMMP-8) then overexpressed, degrades the gingiva and, later, the jawbone (collagenolytic effect). Teeth may become loose and, eventually, fall out or need to be removed. The same pathogenesis can also occur in cases of dental implants and lead to peri-implantitis.