FGF2 Promoter Hypermethylation and Implant Wound Healing Among Smokers and Diabetics

Detailed Summary

Periodontal wound healing is a complex multifactorial process that involves interactions among various cells, growth factors, hormones and extracellular matrices. Although still poorly understood, these interactions trigger a series of events that lead to new tissue formation. One growth factor that plays an important role in wound healing is fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2). Many animal and human studies have shown this protein is effective in periodontal regeneration. Recently, epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation, have been associated with changes in patterns of gene expression. Preliminary data suggests that FGF2 gene may be differentially methylated in periodontal tissues. Aberrant gene promoter methylation in smokers and diabetics has also been reported in many studies. However, the role of DNA methylation in wound healing has not yet been investigated. The investigators hypothesize that the methylation status of FGF2 gene can affect the levels of FGF2 secreted during wound healing phase after dental implant surgery. The investigators also hypothesize there exists a difference in methylation levels of FGF2 gene in healthy, smoking and diabetic patients that can interfere with wound healing. The investigators seek to determine whether DNA methylation plays a role in wound healing and whether the methylation level of FGF2 gene varies among healthy, smoking and diabetic patients.

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