Porphyromonas gingivalis–host interactions: open war or intelligent guerilla tactics?

This review summarizes and discusses virulence mechanisms whereby Porphyromonas gingivalis can persist in the oral cavity. It is proposed that the virulence of P. gingivalis is dependent, at least in part, upon its ability to establish a complex host–pathogen molecular crosstalk which subverts innate immunity. The sophisticated stealth and sabotage tactics used by P. gingivalis may additionally benefit co-habiting organisms occupying the same niche.