Biological Plausibility
The degree to which a proposed mechanism linking periodontal disease to a systemic condition is consistent with known biological principles.
Full Definition
In periodontal literature, biological plausibility refers to the scientifically credible rationale explaining how periodontal pathogens or inflammatory mediators may influence systemic diseases such as cardiovascular disease or diabetes. It is a key criterion used when evaluating epidemiological associations in periodontal-systemic research. Editors reviewing such manuscripts must ensure claims of biological plausibility are supported by mechanistic evidence rather than mere statistical correlation. The term is borrowed from epidemiology and applied specifically in the context of the oral-systemic link. It should not be used loosely as a synonym for 'possible' or 'likely'.
Usage
Usage note: Used in the context of periodontal-systemic medicine research; avoid substituting with 'feasibility' or 'possibility'.
In Context
- "The review article outlined the biological plausibility of the periodontitis–diabetes bidirectional relationship through cytokine-mediated pathways." — Systematic review manuscript
- "Editors should flag any claims of causation that rely solely on biological plausibility without supporting clinical trial data." — Peer review guidance notes