Salivary Mitofusin-1 Levels in Periodontitis: Associations With Disease Severity, Smoking, and Treatment Response

Periodontitis (gum inflammation) is a common disease worldwide. This study aims to investigate a novel biomarker, a protein called Mitofusin-1 (Mfn1), in saliva that may be associated with the severity of periodontitis and response to treatment. The study will include periodontally healthy individuals, individuals with mild to severe periodontitis, and smokers with severe periodontitis. Participants will receive saliva samples and undergo clinical periodontal examinations. Individuals with periodontitis will receive standard periodontal treatment, and changes in Mfn1 levels will be assessed 3 months after treatment. The study is expected to shed light on the potential utility of Mfn1 as a marker in the diagnosis and follow-up of periodontitis.