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Antibacterial and immunomodulatory properties of azithromycin treatment implications for periodontitis

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Abstract

Macrolide antibiotics have been found to possess not only antimicrobial properties, but also modulate inflammation. In this review the multi-faceted properties of azithromycin are discussed. Due to the unique anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, macrolides, and especially azithromycin, are currently used for a number of conditions which have both an inflammatory and microbial component. For the same reason, azithromycin may be of value as an adjunct in the management of periodontitis which, although driven by an infectious component, is largely a result of uncontrolled chronic inflammation.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Colgate Australian Clinical Dental Research Centre, School of Dentistry, University of Adelaide, Frome Road, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia

    P. M. Bartold, A. H. du Bois, S. Gannon & R. S. Hirsch

  2. Discipline of Anatomy and Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, 5005, Australia

    D. R. Haynes

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  1. P. M. Bartold
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  2. A. H. du Bois
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  3. S. Gannon
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  4. D. R. Haynes
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  5. R. S. Hirsch
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Correspondence to P. M. Bartold.

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The authors would like to use this opportunity to express their respect for Professor Barrie Vernon-Roberts. PMB, RSH and DRH had the opportunity to study and train under his guidance and now 25 years later another round of students (AdB and SG) have had the opportunity to be influenced by the legacy of BVR.

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Bartold, P.M., du Bois, A.H., Gannon, S. et al. Antibacterial and immunomodulatory properties of azithromycin treatment implications for periodontitis. Inflammopharmacol 21, 321–338 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10787-012-0165-1

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