Periodontics · single question
Which interleukin is most involved in periodontal disease (bone resorption)?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. IL-1β (interleukin-1 beta)
- A. IL-10 is anti-inflammatory and would tend to suppress, not promote, periodontal tissue destruction.
- B. IL-12 activates NK cells and Th1 responses, not the primary cytokine implicated in periodontal bone resorption in this context.
- C. Correct. IL-1β is a key pro-inflammatory cytokine strongly implicated in periodontal tissue destruction and alveolar bone resorption.
- D. TNF is also pro-inflammatory and contributes to periodontal destruction, but IL-1β is highlighted as the specific answer here.
Note: IL-1: Inflammation, fever | IL-2: T-cell proliferation | IL-4: Stimulates IgE (allergy) | IL-8: Neutrophil chemotaxis | IL-10: Anti-inflammatory | IL-12: Activates NK + Th1.