DEL1: taking the bite out of periodontitis

An international team of researchers has used the endothelial protein DEL1 to treat periodontitis in mice.¹ Despite the therapeutic angle, the near-term utility of DEL1 is more likely to be as a diagnostic and risk marker for the disease.

Periodontitis results from a chronic inflammatory response to bacterial plaque and tartar deposits on the teeth. The consequent neutrophil infiltration of the gingiva (gums) damages gingival tissues and tooth-supporting alveolar bone, which leads to tooth loss...