Tumour necrosis factor-alpha polymorphism -308 G/a and its protein in subjects with gingivitis.

OBJECTIVE: This study examined the association between tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF- alpha) (-308 G/A) polymorphism and gingivitis, and serum and salivary TNF- alpha levels, in a Mexican population. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This study enrolled 171 subjects, divided into two groups: healthy subjects and gingivitis patients. TNF- alpha (-308 G/A) gene polymorphism was analyzed by PCR-RFLP assay. Salivary and serum samples were used to measure cytokine levels through the ELISA technique. RESULTS: TNF- alpha (-308 G/A) polymorphism was shown to have a protective effect in carriers of the A/A genotype and allele A. The G/A genotype is associated with an increase in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels in the gingivitis group. Healthy individuals had higher levels of salivary TNF- alpha and HDL-C, and increased salivary flow. Triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels were increased in the gingivitis group. No statistical differences were found in serum TNF- alpha levels. CONCLUSION: Our data demonstrate that the TNF- alpha -308 A/A genotype exerts a protective effect against gingivitis. Moreover, oral conditions are associated with some biochemical parameters.