1. To determine the degrees and localization of ADAM8 expression in gingival biopsies from patients with chronic periodontitis in comparison to those in non-inflamed gingival biopsies overlying impacted third molars from healthy volunteers.
2. To examine the expression and activity of ADAM8 in human gingival epithelial cells (HGECs) and human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs) in response to stimulation with periodontal microorganisms and cytokines.
3. To investigate the function of soluble ADAM8 in promoting in vitro osteoclastogenesis.
