Abstract
BACKGROUND: The host defense process against invading bacteria leads to the destruction of the periodontium. Lamin A is an important protein for protecting DNA and preventing premature cell aging. This study investigated the expression of the Lamin A gene in periodontitis patients. METHODS: Using an analytical cross-sectional design, Lamin A gene expression was evaluated in 23 periodontitis patients and 24 healthy individuals referred to the Periodontology Department of Mashhad Dental School and Hekmat Clinic, Mashhad, Iran. Gingival samples were collected, followed by RNA extraction, cDNA synthesis, and real-time PCR. Statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS. RESULTS: While the age distribution did not show significant differences between the groups, gender distribution was statistically different. Therefore, the study focuses on comparing Lamin A gene expression levels between the patient and healthy groups, separated by gender. Considering the analysis of 47 gingival tissue samples, the Lamin A gene expression level was higher in healthy participants, with the difference being statistically significant only in female participants (198.45±54.00 in healthy females vs. 143.52±29.29 in periodontitis females). CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that the expression of the Lamin A gene was higher in healthy individuals than in periodontitis patients. More studies are needed to draw more accurate conclusions. If confirmed in larger studies, this protein group might serve as potential biomarkers, enhancing periodontitis assessment strategies.