Cigarette smoke extract modulates human β‐defensin‐2 and interleukin‐8 expression in human gingival epithelial cells

Abstract

Human gingival epithelial cells play a critical role in orchestrating the innate immune responses of periodontal tissue via TLR signalling. Our results represent the first demonstration that CSE can modulate HGEC function by suppressing hBD-2 and enhancing IL-8 production, and this may be, in part, a possible mechanism which promotes periodontal disease.