Short chain fatty acids produced by anaerobic bacteria inhibit adhesion and proliferation of periodontal ligament fibroblasts.

Short chain fatty acids (SCFA) are metabolic by-products of anaerobic bacteria present in the periodontal pocket. We examined the effect of SCFA on cultured human periodontal ligament fibroblasts (PDLF). PDLF were challenged with propionate, butyrate and succinate. A dose dependent inhibition of fibroblast adhesion and proliferation was observed. These results indicate that SCFA present in the periodontal pockets could interfere with periodontal wound healing and repair in patients affected by periodontal infections.