Microbial Dysbiosis and Immune Dysregulation in Periodontitis and Peri-Implantitis

Bacterial balance and host immune homeostasis are essential in maintaining the health of periodontal and peri-implant tissues. The study of harmful microbiota changes, which predispose or accompany disease progression, has gained significant interest, with numerous questions yet to be explored. Advanced technologies, such as metagenomics, transcriptomics, and metabolomics, have shifted the focus from the single pathogen/molecule paradigm of previous decades, allowing researchers to study microbe-host immune interactions in a comprehensive, unbiased, and network-based manner. A fascinating aspect of this research is understanding how periodontal and peri-implant microorganisms adapt and evolve to evade, exploit, or even utilize host immunity to reshape the micro-environment within gingival pockets. Conversely, identifying key molecular mechanisms within the host immune networks that counteract microbial dysbiosis may help explain the persistence of refractory periodontitis and peri-implantitis in clinical settings. The use of specialized statistical methods, machine learning, high-throughput biochips, and smart biosensors offers a powerful toolbox for investigating even subtle biological fluctuations in gingival pockets, opening new avenues for early diagnosis and precise prognosis. Furthermore, elucidating the interactions between microbiota and host immunity will significantly contribute to the development of innovative and effective strategies for controlling infection and inflammation. Targeted or responsive pharmacological and biomaterial-based approaches can help manage tissue damage in periodontitis and peri-implantitis. A well-designed and focused collection of research on microbe-host immunity in these conditions would be highly valuable to oral science researchers, dental practitioners, and general readers alike, particularly emphasizing the role of specific immune cells and pathways involved in the pathogenesis of these diseases.

This Research Topic aims to compile original research articles and reviews that investigate microbiota imbalances and host immune homeostasis disruptions in the context of periodontitis and peri-implantitis, with a focus on novel observations, experimental findings, and innovative methods or therapies. The purpose of this collection is to advance our understanding of the complex interplay between microorganisms and host immunity in periodontitis and peri-implantitis, and to explore potential avenues for improving diagnostics and treatments.

We welcome submissions on the subtopics below:
- The role of bacterial flora alterations on the development and progression of periodontitis and peri-implantitis
- Relevant interspecies interactions within the microbial community in relation to periodontal and peri-implant health
- The complex interplay between oral microbiota and host immune homeostasis in periodontal and peri-implant diseases
- Regulation strategies of microbiota and host immune homeostasis, including pharmacy and biomaterials
- Novel mathematical, bioengineering, biochemical, and clinical methods/devices/models used for related research