Detection of Serum miRNAs Affecting Liver Apoptosis in a Periodontitis Rat Model

Background/aim: miRNA molecules have been attracting attention as genetic modifiers between organs. We examined the relationship between serum miRNA and targeted liver mRNA profiles in a periodontitis rat model, and the influence of periodontitis on the liver.

Materials and methods: Male Wistar rats (n=16, 8 weeks old) were randomly divided into two groups (8 rats each): control and periodontitis (ligature placement for 4 weeks). Serum miRNA and liver mRNA profiles were compared.

Results: Periodontal destruction and hepatocyte apoptosis were induced in the periodontitis group. Microarray analysis indicated that 52 serum miRNAs and 33 liver mRNAs were expressed with a >1.5-fold change (FC) and a >2.0-FC (p<0.05), respectively, between the two groups. From the miRNA target genes, 12 genes equivalented to liver mRNAs with a >2.0-FC, among which, Hyou1, Chac1, and Bloc1s3 have apoptotic functions in our model. miRNAs upstream of these 3 mRNAs are miR-3591, miR-181a-2-3p and miR-6321.

Conclusion: miR-3591, miR-181a-2-3p and miR-6321 induced hepatocyte apoptosis in our periodontitis rat model.