Genomic Medicine in Canine Periodontal Disease: A Systematic Review

SIMPLE SUMMARY: Periodontal disease is one of many conditions that affect the oral cavity of companion animals and humans. Through animal models, namely the dog, it has been possible to increase our knowledge about this disease. Currently, one of the most explored areas is genomic medicine. Through it, it will be possible to implement individualized and early strategies to prevent the development of periodontal disease. In light of the limited existing information, the aim of the present study was to systematically review the existing scientific literature regarding genomic medicine in canine periodontal disease, focusing on the genes already studied and their probable potential. Six articles were selected and analyzed in detail. Only in two of them was it possible to determine that the studied genetic variations could be potential biomarkers to determine the susceptibility to the development of periodontal disease. This fact reinforces the need for further studies in this field, since it is clear that the future of human and veterinary medicine will involve an approach based on the genetic characteristics of each individual. ABSTRACT: Genomic medicine has become a growing reality; however, it is still taking its first steps in veterinary medicine. Through this approach, it will be possible to trace the genetic profile of a given individual and thus know their susceptibility to certain diseases, namely periodontal disease. This condition is one of the most frequently diagnosed in companion animal clinics, especially in dogs. Due to the limited existing information and the lack of comprehensive studies, the objective of the present study was to systematically review the existing scientific literature regarding genomic medicine in canine periodontal disease and determine which genes have already been studied and their probable potential. This study followed the recommendations of the PRISMA 2020 methodology. Canine periodontal disease allied to genomic medicine were the subjects of this systematic review. Only six articles met all of the inclusion criteria, and these were analyzed in detail. These studies described genetic variations in the following genes: interleukin-6, interleukin-10, interleukin-1, lactotransferrin, toll-like receptor 9, and receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappa B. Only in two of them, namely interleukin-1 and toll-like receptor 9 genes, may the identified genetic variations explain the susceptibility that certain individuals have to the development of periodontal disease. It is necessary to expand the studies on the existing polymorphic variations in genes and their relationship with the development of periodontal disease. Only then will it be possible to fully understand the biological mechanisms that are involved in this disease and that determine the susceptibility to its development.