Dual role of N4BP1 in neutrophil–epithelial crosstalk in periodontitis - Report - DentalSpire

Dual role of N4BP1 in neutrophil–epithelial crosstalk in periodontitis

  • By

  • Yuqiang Sun

  • ZiHan Shen

  • Wenyu Zhen

  • Fei Xu

  • Yutong Lu

  • Yufei Pan

  • Dawei Mi

  • Shouzheng Ma

  • Wei Li

  • Wansu Sun

  • Jintao Yu

  • Hengguo Zhang

  • May 28, 2026

  • 0 min

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N4BP1's Dual Function in Neutrophil and Epithelial Interactions During Periodontitis

Overview

This study identifies N4BP1 as a critical regulator in neutrophil and epithelial interactions during periodontitis. It highlights a transcriptionally defined neutrophil subset and the dual role of N4BP1 in modulating inflammatory responses.

Background

Periodontitis is a prevalent chronic inflammatory disease that leads to tooth loss and alveolar bone resorption. Neutrophils, as key players in the immune response, exhibit functional heterogeneity that may influence disease progression. Understanding the specific roles of neutrophil subsets and their interactions with epithelial cells is crucial for developing targeted therapies.

Data Highlights

No numerical data or trial data presented in the article.

Key Findings

  • A transcriptionally defined neutrophil subset, LDN-1, was identified, resembling low-density neutrophils.
  • N4BP1 downregulation in epithelial cells impaired mucosal barrier integrity, increasing tissue damage.
  • N4BP1 regulates both pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory signaling pathways in LDN-1 neutrophils.
  • The study utilized single-cell RNA sequencing and Mendelian randomization to analyze immune cell subsets.
  • N4BP1 may serve as a potential therapeutic target for periodontitis and related inflammatory diseases.

Clinical Implications

The findings suggest that targeting N4BP1 could help restore epithelial barrier function and modulate neutrophil activity in periodontitis. Further validation is needed to explore its potential as a precision therapeutic strategy.

Conclusion

N4BP1 plays a dual role in coordinating neutrophil and epithelial interactions during periodontitis, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target. Further research is warranted to validate these findings.

Related Resources & Content

  1. Frontiers in Endocrinology, 2026 -- TRPV1-linked neuropeptide axes in periodontitis and peri-implantitis
  2. Journal of Crohn's and Colitis -- The Bidirectional Effects of Periodontal Disease and Oral Dysbiosis on Gut Inflammation in Inflammatory Bowel Disease
  3. Infection -- Integrating Oral and Systemic Health: Investigating the Pathogenesis, Biomarkers, and Diagnostic Advances in Periodontal Disease
  4. Treatment of stage I–III periodontitis—The EFP S3 level clinical practice guideline - PMC
  5. The Journal of Infectious Diseases — The Major Outer Membrane Protein P5 Binds Vitronectin to Mediate Serum Resistance in Nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae
  6. Treatment of stage I–III periodontitis—The EFP S3 level clinical practice guideline - PMC
  7. Adjunctive Systemic Antimicrobials in the Treatment of Generalized Stage III, Grade C Periodontitis: A Triple-Blind, Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial | Bratislava Medical Journal | Springer Nature Link
  8. The impact of aging on neutrophil functions and the contribution to periodontitis | International Journal of Oral Science

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