Cathepsin K Levels in the Gingival Crevicular Fluid of Smokers and Non-Smokers

What is it about?

The study aimed to evaluate the levels of cathepsin K (CTSK) in the gingival crevicular fluid of smokers and non-smokers with chronic periodontitis before and after non-surgical periodontal therapy. Sixty adults with age (>25 years) were randomly divided into three groups of 20 subjects each, based on plaque index, gingival index, probing pocket depth, and clinical attachment level as periodontally healthy (group 1), non-smokers with chronic periodontitis (group 2), and smokers with chronic periodontitis (group 3). All the patients underwent scaling and root planing and were recalled after 4-6 weeks. GCF levels of CTSK were estimated using Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). The cathepsin K levels were higher in non-smokers with chronic periodontitis compared to periodontally healthy patients. The mean cathepsin K value in smokers with periodontal disease was 19.21±3.50 (ng/ml), which was more than the mean of healthy controls, 14.03±2.86 (ng/ml); the value was statistically significant (p<0.001). The mean percentage reduction in the levels was 31.99±36.31 (ng/ml) and 24.37±29.99 (ng/ml) in non-smoking patients than in smoking patients with periodontal disease, respectively. But, it was not statistically significant (P<0.706) between the groups. Cathepsin K levels increased in smokers than non-smokers, and periodontal therapy was effective in reducing its levels. The reduction was more in the non-smoking group than the smokers. Hence, cathepsin K could be a potential biological marker for disease progression in smokers.

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