Salivary Proinflammatory Cytokines IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF Decrease With Age

Objective to analyze salivary concentrations interleukin-1β (IL-1β), 6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) according to age in healthy subjects to determine baseline inflammatory state of the oral mucosa in elderly subjects, who are at higher risk of developing inflammation-related diseases.

Materials and methods sixty-four healthy volunteers were divided into groups according to age: 20-39 (G1; n=20); 40-59 (G2; n=24); 60-80 years (G3; n=20). Their stomatognathic system and periodontal status were assessed; consumption of food sources of fatty acids (FA) was evaluated using a validated food frequency questionnaire. IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF salivary levels were determined (ELISA) in mixed unstimulated saliva. Kruskal Wallis and Spearman’s correlation tests were applied (p<0.05).

Results salivary IL-1β and TNF levels were lower in G2 (p=0.001) and G3 (p<0.001) than in G1; IL-6 levels were lower in G3 than in G2 and G1 (p= <0.001). IL-1β showed the highest concentration in all groups (p<0.001). No statistically significant differences in salivary cytokine levels were observed on sex in any of the groups. Associations were observed between salivary cytokines and consumption of some foods containing FA.

Conclusion salivary concentration of proinflammatory cytokines decreased with age. It could be influenced by ageing-related changes. In addtition, the baseline inflammatory state of the oral mucosa would appear to be influenced by dietary intake of sources of anti-inflammatory FA.

Clinical relevance the knowledge about inflammatory state of the oral mucosa, as determined by salivary cytokine concentrations, could be useful for understanding and prevention of developing inflammation-related diseases.