The topic for the second annual Robert J. Genco Perio-Systemic Symposium is the relationship between periodontitis and cardiovascular diseases. Dr. Genco was a pioneer in this area of investigation identifying and characterizing early on the epidemiologic link between these diseases. Recent advances in cardiology have identified inflammation as an important component in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. In parallel, the role on inflammation in the pathogenesis of periodontitis has been well characterized in recent years. The goal of this symposium is to bring leaders in the field of cardiology who were instrumental in demonstrating the inflammatory link to cardiovascular diseases to the podium along with an expert in periodontal disease pathogenesis and its link to systemic disease to provide the latest data and concepts to members of the Academy.  The subject matter will span from the bench to the clinic to bring valuable knowledge of this important area to the practicing periodontist.

There is mounting evidence regarding the bi-directional link between periodontal disease and Alzheimer's Disease. Within the Alzheimer’s Disease research field there is a growing consensus for the need to identify upstream causation events prior to the irreversible pathological changes in the brain. Among the putative mediators are the potential role of translocation to the brain of periodontitis-associated pathogens, such as Porphyromonas gingivalis, and their products. The basic clinical criteria for Alzheimer’s Disease as well as other common neurodegenerative disorders will be highlighted in this perio-systemic program. The program presentations will cover the current and future therapeutic landscapes and practical adjustments for periodontists when treating individuals with memory and other cognitive disorders.

Since the first proof of COVID-19 viral carriage in saliva was established in a small patient population, the potential intricate roles of saliva in transmission, pathogenicity, and severity of the infection are being actively studied. The viral load in the oral cavity has been correlated with clinical symptoms including taste alterations have been demonstrated. Our group is focused on identifying the molecular mechanisms behind these clinical correlations in the oral environment of patients with COVID-19.