Single-cell sequencing data identifies differentially expressed genes and immune cell subtypes in periodontitis patients

• Single-cell RNA sequencing identified 23 distinct immune cell clusters in periodontitis, revealing the heterogeneity of the immune microenvironment. • Mendelian randomization analysis established causal relationships between three key genes (ANXA1, SLC11A1, VIM) and periodontitis risk. • Pathway enrichment and immune infiltration analyses indicated that these genes are involved in critical immune regulatory mechanisms. • Experimental validation confirmed upregulation of ANXA1, SLC11A1, and VIM in periodontitis tissues, suggesting their potential as therapeutic targets.