Immunocytochemical demonstration of IgG, IgA, IgM and albumin in the acquired supragingival pellicle

ABSTRACT

There is increasing evidences that immunological phenomena play a significant role in the pathogenesis of periodontal disease. The purpose of the present study was to demonstrate the presence and the distribution of immunoglohulins and albumin in the acquired enamel pellicle. Hydroxyapatite splints, trimmed into appropriate shape and secured to the labial surfaces of maxillary molars and premolar teeth, were used to collect acquired pellicle. The splint segments were removed after 2 hr. and processed for Transmission Electron Microscope [TEM] using low temperature embedding material. The specific sites of activity were visualized by reacting sections with a rabbit anti-immunoglobulins and anti-albumin which had been conjugated with protein A-gold complex. IgG, IgA and Albumin were found in the acquired pellicle, whereas IgM was not detected. Density of labeling was found to be greater on the epithelial cells adhered to the hydroxyapatite splint than in the acquired pellicle