TNF and periodontitis: The same connection was also explored through animal studies, where periodontitis in pregnant baboons has been linked to APOs, including preterm deliveries, LBW, spontaneous abortion, stillbirth and fetal demise.8 Similarly, translocation of P. Gingivalis to pregnant rodents’ placenta has been shown to elevate IL-6, IL-17, IL-1β and TNF-α, resulting in degenerative changes and preterm deliveries.9