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LPS and Periodontal Disease — NDEB AFK MCQ

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ModerateBiomedical SciencesLPS and Periodontal DiseaseNDEB AFK

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a potent stimulator of the host inflammatory response in periodontal disease, is a component of which bacterial structure?

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Correct answer: D — Outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria

LPS (endotoxin) is a major component of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria. It consists of lipid A (the toxic moiety), core polysaccharide, and O-antigen. LPS activates the innate immune response via TLR-4, triggering release of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6) and prostaglandins (PGE₂), which drive periodontal tissue destruction and bone resorption.

Reference: Lamont – Oral Microbiology and Immunology, 3rd ed., 2019