of heightened susceptibility to infections. Those patients who do not have their diabetes

under control are especially at risk. Periodontal diseases are serious bacterial infections

that destroy the attachment fibers and supporting bone that maintain teeth in the oral

cavity. Left untreated, these diseases can lead to tooth loss.

 The methods and materials utilized in this study involved collecting gingival tissue

samples from diabetic patients and controls. Those samples were then prepared for

immunohistochemical preparation. After the samples were prepared they were then

scored and graded based on the intensity of stain. A strong staining intensity correlated

with a higher number of receptors and was interpreted as an up-regulation.

 The present study has shown the expression of IGF-1 receptors on both gingival

tissue samples of Type 2 diabetics with varying degrees of periodontal disease and

gingival tissue samples of healthy non-diabetic subjects with periodontal disease.

Although no statistical differences between the groups could be established, a trend for

increased expression of IGF-1 receptors in diabetics and a decreased expression in

controls was apparent. The preliminary findings of this study are significant in the

confirmation of the presence of IGF-1 receptors in gingival tissue. Although presence of

up-regulation can not be statistically confirmed, this study gives reason for further

investigation in this area.