FimA genotype variants of Porphyromonas gingivalis in periodontal health and disease: a preliminary observational study among the UAE population

Background: This research explores the prevalence of fimA genotype variants of Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) in individuals with periodontitis and healthy controls within the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It seeks to examine the relationship between these genotypes and both periodontal health and disease. The study aims to improve our understanding of the involvement of P. gingivalis in periodontal diseases among the UAE population. Methods: This research involved 127 individuals diagnosed with periodontitis and 127 healthy participants matched for age and gender. Subgingival plaque samples were collected and examined for fimA genotypes (types I, II, III, IV, and V) employing polymerase chain reaction (PCR). A statistical evaluation using the chi-squared test was conducted to explore the relationship between fimA genotypes and periodontal condition, providing insights into the relationship between microbial profiles and periodontal health and disease. Results: The study found a significant link between specific fimA genotypes and periodontitis. The fimA genotype II was most common in periodontitis patients (41.7%) compared to healthy individuals (7.1%), with a strong association (p < 0.001). fimA genotype type IV was also more frequent in patients (15.0%) than in controls (2.4%), showing a significant correlation (p < 0.001). Other genotypes, such as fimA I, III, and V, were more frequently observed in patients, suggesting their involvement in disease development. Conclusion: This study highlights a significant link between specific P. gingivalis fimA genotypes, particularly types II and IV fimA genotype combinations, and periodontitis in the UAE population. These findings provide insights into the prevalence of genotypes and suggest future research into their pathogenic mechanisms, potentially leading to new therapeutic interventions for periodontitis.