Inflammasomes in Oral Pathologies: From Periodontal Disease to Oral Cancer
摘要
Inflammasomes are multiprotein complexes that play a crucial role in the innate immune system, particularly in the regulation of inflammatory responses, and play a critical role in different oral pathologies, influencing the development and progression of conditions like periodontal disease and oral cancer by regulating inflammatory responses that contribute to tissue damage and tumorigenesis. The multiprotein inflammasome complexes have a role in the body’s innate immune response by detecting pathogens, tissue damage, and other stress signals, leading to the activation of inflammatory cytokines, primarily interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and IL-18. In the context of periodontitis, a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the tissues supporting the teeth, inflammasomes are integral in mediating the inflammatory response that drives the disease progression. Their activation is pivotal in oral health and the progression of various oral diseases, ranging from periodontal diseases to oral cancer. This review explores the involvement of inflammasomes in oral pathologies, with a focus on their role in periodontal diseases, oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs), and oral cancer. Specifically, we examine how dysregulation of inflammasome activity contributes to inflammatory conditions like gingivitis and periodontitis, and how this can transition into more severe oral diseases, such as OPMDs and cancer. This chapter will also highlight the role of epigenetic changes in inflammasome regulation, providing insight into potential diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for oral health management. This comprehensive overview underscores the importance of inflammasome research in improving our understanding and treatment of oral pathologies, pointing to future directions for clinical applications.