Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to develop a novel, drug-free therapy that can reduce the over-accumulation of cariogenic bacteria on dental surfaces.

Methods: We designed and synthesized a polyethylene glycol (PEG)-based hydrophilic copolymer functionalized with a pyrophosphate (PPi) tooth-binding anchor using "click" chemistry. The polymer was then evaluated for hydroxyapatite (HA) binding kinetics and capability of reducing bacteria adhesion to artificial tooth surface.

Results: The PPi-PEG copolymer can effectively inhibit salivary protein adsorption after rapid binding to an artificial tooth surface. As a result, the in vitro S. mutans adhesion study showed that the PPi-PEG copolymer can inhibit saliva protein-promoted S. mutans adhesion through the creation of a neutral, hydrophilic layer on the artificial tooth surface.

Conclusions: The results suggested the potential application of a PPi-PEG copolymer as a drug-free alternative to current antimicrobial therapy for caries prevention.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)3031-3037
Number of pages7
JournalPharmaceutical Research
Volume31
Issue number11
DOIs
StatePublished - Nov 2014

Keywords

  • biofilm
  • caries
  • click chemistry
  • hydroxyapatite
  • tooth-binding

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Biotechnology
  • Molecular Medicine
  • Pharmacology
  • Pharmaceutical Science
  • Organic Chemistry
  • Pharmacology (medical)

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