Expression of nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor in oral lichen planus

Abstract

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a common chronic inflammatory disease of the oral mucosa. The etiology is exactly unknown, and there is no specific cure for OLP and the management can be difficult. The innate immune system is the first line of host defense against pathogens and imbalances in this system contribute to serious infectious disease and to chronic inflammatory and autoimmune disease. Nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain (NOD) is a pivotal sensor protein of the innate immune system, and has been suggested to play a important role in the maintenance of homeostasis and progression of inflammatory oral disease. However, the relationship of NOD and OLP has not been reported yet. The aim of the present study is to explore the relationship of NOD and OLP. In this study, we examined the expression of NOD1 and NOD2 in OLP patients by RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry. The result showed that the expression of NOD1 and NOD2 was increased markedly in OLP group compared to control group, especially NOD2. We suggest NOD1 and NOD2 have an important role in the pathogenesis and maintenance of OLP, especially NOD2. We propose that NOD1 and NOD2 could be a new target for diagnosis and treatment of OLP.