Endotoxin levels in amniotic fluid of Porphyromonas gingivalis-infected pregnant rats

Abstract

Background: Porphyromonas gingivalis as a major etiology of periodontal disease can produce virulence factor, such as lipopolysaccharide/endotoxin, which is potentially involved in tissue destruction and impaired host defenses. Porphyromonas gingivalis LPS is expected to play a role in the intrauterine fetal growth. The aims of the present study were to identify endotoxin levels in the amniotic fluid of Porphyromonas gingivalis-infected pregnant rats, and to determine its effect on fetal growth. Methods: Female rats were challenged with live-Porphyromonas gingivalis at concentration of 2x109 colony forming unit/ml into subgingival sulcus area of the maxillary first molar before and/or during pregnancy. They were sacrified on gestational day 14 and 20. Fetuses were evaluated for weight and length. Endotoxin was detected by limulus amebocyte lysate assay in amniotic fluid. Results: The mean of LPS concentrations in amniotic fluid on GD 14 and GD 20 was significantly different (P<0.05) among the four maternal periodontal infection groups. Fetal endotoxemia on GD 14 and GD 20 affected (P<0.05) the placental weight, fetal weight and fetal length. The increased LPS concentration in amniotic fluid resulted in the decreased placental weight, fetal weight and fetal length. Conclusion: The increased LPS concentration was in accordance to long-term maternal chronic periodontal infection. Periodontitis could serve as a source of bacterial components, such as LPS, thus it triggered the release of inflammatory mediators and resulted the adverse pregnancy outcomes.