Neutrophil elastase (NE), usually localized within the cytoplasm of neutrophils, is increased in the saliva of periodontitis patients and can also be used as a biomarker for disease progression.43 The mechanism by which NE is released and its role in disease is currently unclear; future studies on this mechanism may further elucidate the role of NE as a biomarker for periodontitis. The gene discussed is ELANE; the disease is periodontitis.