WALTHAM, Mass.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Interleukin Genetics, Inc. (OTCQB: ILIU) announced today a poster presentation at the 2015 International Association for Dental Research General Session & Exhibition, taking place March 11-14, 2015, in Boston. The poster (#1290), titled “IL1 Genotype and Obesity Characteristics Interact to Influence Periodontitis Progression,” will be presented by Leon Williams, Ph.D., Senior Director of Translational Sciences, Interleukin Genetics, on Thursday, March 12, from 2:00-3:15 p.m. (ET).
“Using a longitudinal clinical database, the new evidence presented today demonstrates how the functional IL-1 gene variants, shown to influence periodontitis (PD) severity, affect the previously demonstrated association between obesity and PD progression,” stated Lynn Doucette-Stamm, Ph.D., Vice President Development and Clinical Operations. “IL-1 gene variants have been previously shown to amplify the detrimental effects of smoking and diabetes on periodontitis severity. This study provides additional evidence to guide clinical use of IL-1 gene variants, together with other risk factors, to assist dentists in identifying high risk patients who could potentially benefit from more frequent dental cleanings and monitoring to better maintain oral health.”
Previous studies utilizing a prospective design of men within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Dental Longitudinal Study have demonstrated a significant relationship between obesity status and future risk of periodontitis. In separate studies, composite IL1 patterns identified by the PST® and PerioPredict® genetic tests have been shown to be significantly associated with the severity of chronic periodontitis, with the latter showing consistent associations across multiple ethnic populations.
Interleukin used obesity-related risk factors and IL-1 genetic variations along with other well established risk factors to analyze for significant associations and interactions relative to periodontitis progression. The key variables in the study included PD, weight, height, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), age, smoking, glucose tolerance, and genotypes of six IL-1 Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs). Disease progression was defined using a combination of change in classification of disease severity based on alveolar bone loss and tooth loss during follow-up. Tests for association of genotype with obesity characteristics and progression were performed using regression models with or without adjustments for age, smoking, and glucose tolerance. The association between the PerioPredict® genotype and progression was not affected by baseline BMI or changes in weight or WC, but was affected by baseline WC/height ratio. Overall, participants who were positive for this Periodontitis composite genotype progressed significantly faster than those who were negative.
About Periodontitis
Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease initiated by specific bacteria that activate host mechanisms destroying the bone and connective tissues that support the teeth. Between 8% and 13% of the worldwide adult population exhibit severe generalized periodontitis, with many more having clinical signs of mild to moderate disease. Individuals who have a history of periodontitis and have been appropriately treated require more preventive care to maintain health. Although bacteria cause the disease, a small number of risk factors, including smoking, diabetes, IL-1 gene variations, obesity, stress, osteoporosis, and other inflammatory diseases have been associated with increased severity of periodontitis. Current treatments to prevent gum disease include good oral hygiene and professional dental cleanings on a regular basis depending on the needs of the patient. Data from the “Patient Stratification for Preventive Dental Care” study (Giannobile et al., June 2013) indicate that individuals with certain risk factors, including IL-1 gene variations, benefit significantly from cleanings twice annually, and patients with multiple risk factors appeared to require more than two cleanings annually to maintain health. The Company believes risk stratification of patients without a history of periodontitis may optimize preventative dental care to improve outcomes.
About PerioPredict®
The PerioPredict® genetic test is quick, easy and painless and is performed by dentists during a routine exam or cleaning. PerioPredict® measures variations in genes for Interleukin-1 (IL-1), a key mediator of inflammation, and identifies individuals who are at increased risk for moderate to severe periodontal disease. The PerioPredict® test results provide important information to the dental professional for assessing prevention and treatment options for their patients. PerioPredict® is run solely in the Interleukin Genetics CLIA-certified lab in Waltham, MA. For more information, please visit www.PerioPredict.com.
About Interleukin Genetics
Interleukin Genetics, Inc. (OTCQB: ILIU) develops and markets proprietary genetic tests for chronic diseases and health related conditions. The products empower individuals to prevent certain chronic conditions and manage their existing health and wellness through genetic-based insights with actionable guidance. Interleukin Genetics leverages its research, intellectual property and genetic panel development expertise in metabolism and inflammation to facilitate the emerging personalized healthcare market. The Company markets its tests through partnerships with health and wellness companies, healthcare professionals and other distribution channels. Interleukin Genetics’ lead products include its proprietary PerioPredict® genetic risk panel for periodontal disease and tooth loss susceptibility available through dentists, and the Inherent Health® Weight Management Genetic Test that identifies the most effective diet program for an individual based on genetics. Interleukin Genetics is headquartered in Waltham, MA, and operates an on-site, state-of-the-art DNA testing laboratory certified under the Clinical Laboratories Improvements Amendments (CLIA). For more information, please visit www.ilgenetics.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements contained herein are “forward-looking” statements. Because such statements include risks and uncertainties, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, those risks and uncertainties described in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013, and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company disclaims any obligation or intention to update these forward-looking statements.