A Research on animal cell and tissue culture by Dr. Mahwash Maalik Baloch from Bolan Medical College, Quetta, Balochistan
Periodontal disease is a worldwide problem that affects people of all classes. It is a chronic infection caused by bacterial infection of the periodontium and results in a degeneration of tissue. It’s characterized by an inflammatory reaction of the gingival tissue. The disease subsequently destroys periodontal structures including cementum, periodontal ligament and alveolar bone.
The periodontal diseases are highly prevalent and can affect up to 90% of the world wide population. It is becoming increasingly evident that such infection can influence systemic health in many ways. Studies in animals and humans have linked oral infection in mothers to pre-term low birth-weight (PLBW) babies. Prospective studies have found an association between periodontal disease and heart disease. These infections have also been linked to stroke, aspiration pneumonia in the elderly and those with chronic respiratory diseases.
Important aspects of periodontal therapies are to slow down or to arrest the progression of the disease by scaling and root planning of the tooth, through the medications, for instance; tetracycline, macrolides, quinolone, metronidazole in combination with tetracycline and surgery. Therapeutic methods may involve tissue engineering to regenerate the alveolar bone, cementum, periodontal ligament and finally prevent recurrence of the disease. However, long term use of antibiotics may increase the risk of bacterial resistance to these drugs.
Propolis is the generic name for a complex mixture of resinous substances collected from plants by bees, which is used in the bee hive to coat the inner walls, to protect the entrance against intruders, and to inhibit the growth of fungi and bacteria. Propolis is one of the few natural remedies that have maintained its popularity over a long period of time.
Propolis have multiple effects on bacteria, fungi and viruses. In addition, propolis and its components have been reported to possess anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities. Moreover, propolis has been shown to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Propolis has been used in dentistry for various purposes and has a promising role for future medicine.
Recently Dr.Mahwash Maalik Baloch works on propolis. She found the results of this study could be used to support the usage of this natural material in dental practice for the treatment of periodontal diseases.
Dr. Mahwash Maalik Baloch belongs to District Panjgur Balochistan .She completed her M.S degree from Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand. She is among the few (animal cell and tissue culture) researchers of Pakistan. She has presented her work in IADR international conference in Hongkong China and received her MS degree and certificates from the Thai princess - Her Highness - Maha Chakri Sirindhorn.
