School of Dentistry, Interleukin Genetics Complete Enrollment of Novel Clinical Study

New Genetic Test May Predict Periodontal Disease, Guide Care

Ann Arbor, MI — March 28, 2012 — The University of Michigan School of Dentistry and Interleukin Genetics (OTCQB: ILIU) have completed patient enrollment in a novel clinical study that may help determine risk levels in dental patients, guide frequency of preventive visits and help reduce potential adverse outcomes, such as tooth loss, in patients with periodontal disease.

The study, led by Dr. William Giannobile, chair of the Department of Periodontics and director of the Michigan Center for Oral Health Research, includes more than 5,400 adults with more than 15 consecutive years of documented oral health history.  Interleukin’s PST Genetic Test® will be used to identify persons with increased risk for severe and progressive periodontal disease and significant tooth loss using a proprietary set of genetic variations that predispose an individual to over-express inflammation.

Noting that adults have been advised to visit their dentist every six months for an examination and cleaning of their teeth, Giannobile said there appears to be little evidence to support the wisdom of that advice.  

“A recent systematic review concluded that there is insufficient evidence to either support or refute the six-month recommendation,” he said. “However, if clinical outcomes for low-risk patients are not adversely affected with an annual visit, it may be possible to move toward more personalized preventive measures to manage periodontal disease in low-risk individuals while encouraging more preventive care in patients with higher risk.”

Full press release:  U-M School of Dentistry, Interleukin Genetics complete enrollment of Novel Clinical Study