Low DYNLL1 Resists Porphyromonas gingivalis –Induced Epithelial Jamming-Like State

Abstract

Incomplete regeneration of the junctional epithelium (JE) following periodontal therapy is associated with persistent alveolar bone resorption and disease recurrence. While pathogen clearance is essential, the host-intrinsic mechanisms dictating epithelial recovery remain obscure. Here, we reveal that Porphyromonas gingivalis challenge induces an aberrant jamming-like phase transition in the epithelium during the early recovery window, mechanically restricting the epithelial remodeling required for proper JE reconstruction. Through a genome-wide CRISPR-Cas9 screen, we identified Dynein Light Chain LC8-Type 1 (DYNLL1) as a central mediator of this pathological transition. Mechanistically, DYNLL1 regulates the abundance and membrane localization of the junction-associated protein JUP, whose overaccumulation strengthens intercellular adhesion and restricts epithelial motility. Partial DYNLL1 deficiency not only reduces junctional rigidity but also enhances Wnt/β-catenin signaling, thereby preserving a more dynamically responsive epithelial state conducive to repair. In a murine periodontitis model, Dynll1 haploinsufficiency facilitated the restoration of JE morphology, improved barrier function, and mitigated bone loss. These findings suggest that modulating epithelial biophysical properties may complement antimicrobial therapies to enhance periodontal healing. Overall, this work provides novel insights into host-intrinsic mechanisms that contribute to impaired periodontal repair and identifies potential therapeutic targets for early-stage intervention.