Another cruel feedback loop:
Marfan syndrome is a genetic condition that damages the body's connective tissue, which supports bones, muscles, organs, and blood vessels. It is caused by a mutation in the FBN1 gene that disrupts the production of a protein called fibrillin-1.
Human fibrillin-1 is a critical molecule that forms microfibrils, providing structural scaffolding for elastic fibers throughout connective tissues all over the body,
This results in skeletal and cardiovascular changes, including long limbs and weak aortic walls.
It also degrades the gingival tissues and periodontal ligaments. Marfan patients have an increased incidence of periodontal disease than contol subjects.
Porphyromonas gingivalis produces Gingipains, molecules which degrade host extracellular matrix proteins. While their primary targets are fibronectin and collagens, they also target the surrounding microfibrillar network including fibrillin structures, leading directly to tissue destruction, impaired wound healing, and bone loss. P. gingivalis travels all over the body and is a documented trigger of atherosclerosis.
Periodontal condition in growing subjects with Marfan Syndrome: a case-control study
Oral health in patients with Marfan syndrome
Periodontitis May Deteriorate Aortic Sinus Dilatation in Marfan Syndrome Patients
Oral Health Status in Marfan Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of 353 Cases
