Taurine, Sirtuin-1 and TNF- α levels in different aged adults with periodontitis: a pilot study

BACKGROUND: Aging is a progressive decline in physiological & immunological functions, leading to an increased risk of chronic diseases. Taurine is a semi-essential amino acid, reduces inflammation by apoptosis, and oxidative stress by lowering inflammatory factors and decreases oxidative stress. The aim of this pilot study is to evaluate the saliva and serum levels of taurine and interrelated proteins in patients with periodontitis in different age groups. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study included systemically healthy young (25–44 years old) and old (≥ 65 years old) periodontally healthy and stage III grade B periodontitis patients. Periodontal parameters and salivary flow rates were recorded. Serum and saliva samples were collected to measure the taurine, sirtuin 1(SIRT1), and TNF-α using ELISA kits. RESULTS: Taurine levels in saliva and serum were significantly elevated in the young periodontally healthy group compared to other groups (p < 0.05). SIRT1 levels in serum were also higher in the young healthy group (p < 0.05), while no significant difference was found in saliva. TNF-α positively correlates with the local inflammatory burden of periodontal disease (bleeding on probing and clinical attachment loss). TNF-α was found the most accurate biomarker (AUC = 0.711). CONCLUSION: According to data of this pilot study, young individuals have higher levels of taurine compared to older individuals, and that this variation may be suggested as more strongly associated with age than with periodontal condition. TRIAL REGISTRATION: NCT06635369 – 10/10/2024—Retrospectively registered.