Refereed journal article or data article (A1)
Oral Cavity Beta-Defensin Levels Are Regulated Differently during Radiotherapy in Head and Neck Cancer Patients
List of Authors: Keskin Mutlu, Suomi Emma, Harmankaya İlknur, Karaçetin Didem, Sorsa Timo, Gürsoy Ulvi Kahraman
Publisher: MDPI
Publication year: 2023
Journal: Applied Sciences
Journal name in source: Applied Sciences (Switzerland)
Article number: 2056
Volume number: 13
Issue number: 4
ISSN: 2076-3417
eISSN: 2076-3417
DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/app13042056
URL: https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3417/13/4/2056
Self-archived copy’s web address: https://research.utu.fi/converis/portal/detail/Publication/179083821
Background: Human beta-defensins (hBDs) are small cationic peptides of the epithelium with broad antimicrobial and immune response-regulatory activities. hBDs are also related to oncogenesis, and their secretion profiles are affected by radiotherapy treatment. The present study aimed to investigate the oral cavity hBD 1-3 levels in head and neck cancer patients and its relation to radiotherapy treatment. Methods: Sixteen head and neck cancer patients (all with a history of smoking) were included in this study. Periodontal parameters were measured before radiotherapy, and medical information was collected from registries. Oral rinses of the patients were collected before radiotherapy; on the 1st, 3rd, and 6th weeks of radiotherapy; and the 1st month following the end of radiotherapy. hBD 1–3 levels were measured using ELISA. Results: Oral hBD-1 levels increased during radiotherapy at week 6 (p = 0.019). hBD-1 levels returned to pretreatment levels after the end of radiotherapy. No significant change was detected for hBD-2 or hBD-3 levels during or after radiotherapy. Conclusions: The constant expression of hBD-1, which is distinct from the infection and inflammation-dependent expression profiles of hBD-2 and hBD-3, may explain why this peptide is the only one affected by radiotherapy.
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