The concentration of medullasin, a granulocyte elastase-like serine proteinase, in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) was determined by sensitive immunoassay method. In patients with chronic adult periodontitis the medullasin content was positively associated with the quantity of GCF, but not with the probing depth. The medullasin content was greatly decreased under the periodontal treatment, as compared with prior to the treatment. In individuals with experimental gingivitis the medullasin content in gingival crevices showed three distinct exudative patterns. The medullasin content in GCF attained a peak value at around 4 days after refraining from oral hygiene measures. It showed a rapid decrease up to 7 days followed by a progressive increase during a 21-day period. The increased medullasin was rapidly decreased by cleaning the teeth. The results suggest that medullasin play roles in development of both gingivitis and chronic periodontitis.
