Mitophagy and Its Significance in Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is a common chronic inflammatory condition affecting the tissues that support teeth, leading to their destruction. Mitophagy, a specialized form of autophagy responsible for degrading damaged mitochondria, plays a crucial role in maintaining cellular homeostasis. However, its role in periodontal disease progression remains poorly understood. This review aims to summarize recent research on mitophagy's role in periodontal disease pathogenesis. A comprehensive literature review on mitophagy was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, employing keywords related to periodontal disease such as "periodontal," "periodontitis," "gingiva," and "gingivitis." A review of 18 original studies revealed that mitophagy plays a crucial role in periodontal disease by regulating key pathophysiological mechanisms. Specifically, mitophagy modulates periodontal inflammation by influencing pro-inflammatory cytokines and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species. Additionally, it is essential for alveolar bone remodeling, impacting both bone resorption and regeneration. Mitophagy also regulates cell apoptosis within periodontal tissues, helping to preserve cellular function and tissue integrity during periodontal disease progression. Mitophagy regulates periodontal disease pathogenesis by modulating inflammation, bone remodeling, and cell death in periodontal tissues. Further research is needed to explore its therapeutic potential in periodontal disease treatment and improve targeted interventions.