Leptin and periodontitis - A plausible association

Leptin has been shown to regulate food intake, body weight, and neuroendocrine function. Patients deficient in leptin are more likely to be obese. Diseases of the developed countries like diabetes, obesity and cardiovascular diseases have confined within the community today tremendously. Periodontal disease manifestations have been associated with these systemic diseases. Gingiva, in addition to adipose tissue, could be a source of circulating leptin in patients with periodontal disease. Adequate periodontal therapy could reduce the serum leptin levels and thus may aid in breaking its link to obesity and other systemic conditions. This review will give the cumulative evidence of leptin and its association with periodontal pathogens, periodontitis, and the risk of developing diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and obesity.