Periodontal proteins in health and disease

Proteins are the class of macromolecules containing nitrogen that are essential for the survival of life.Proteins execute a wide variety of specific and vital functions in the living cells. The supporting tissues of periodontium are made up several molecules, cells and tissues embedded in different layers of matrix composition. Proteins present in periodontium are involved in various functions such as cell matrix adhesion and signaling,regulate diffusion of nutrients, waste product etc. Periodontal disease is the major cause of tooth loss which occurs due to pathological changes in the supporting tissues. Abnormalities in either protein function or structure have been associated with various genetic and non-genetic diseases. Therefore the knowledge of different proteins present in periodontium is imperative to understand the physiology and pathology of the periodontal tissues. Hence this book reviews the list of various types of proteins present in gingiva,periodontal ligament, cementum and alveolar bone.