The effect of simvastatin on systemic inflammation and endothelial dysfunction induced by periodontitis.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: It has been demonstrated that periodontitis induces systemic inflammation, which may impair endothelial function leading to increased cardiovascular risk. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of simvastatin on systemic inflammatory markers and endothelial dysfunction induced by periodontitis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Wistar rats were subjected to ligature-induced experimental periodontitis. Eight days after the procedure, the ligature and sham groups were randomly assigned to receive simvastatin or vehicle once a day until the 14th day, when the effects of acetylcholine and sodium nitroprusside on blood pressure were evaluated. Blood samples were collected and evaluated for plasma interleukin-6C, -reactive protein and lipids. The maxilla and mandible were removed for bone loss analysis. RESULTS: Simvastatin treatment reduced systemic inflammation and endothelial dysfunction induced by periodontitis. Furthermore, simvastatin improved the blood lipid profile and reduced alveolar bone loss. CONCLUSION: Simvastatin treatment, in addition to the improvement on serum lipid profile, may reduce other predictors of cardiovascular events associated with periodontitis.