Abstract
Emodin is an active herbal component traditionally used in East Asian countries for treating a variety of diseases. The present study investigated the effects of emodin on specific virulence factors of Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) in vitro and on caries development in vivo. The growth and acid production of S. mutans were significantly inhibited by emodin (0.5–2 mg/ml). Emodin also significantly suppressed the synthesis of insoluble glucans by S. mutans. Furthermore, the topical application of emodin reduced the incidence and severity of carious lesions in rats. These results suggest that the natural compound emodin may be a novel pharmacological agent for the prevention and treatment of dental caries.
Highlights
Dental caries is an infectious oral disease prevalent across the world and it is associated with various pathogenic microorganisms
The present study revealed that emodin, a natural product, interfered with key cariogenic factors of S. mutans, namely the synthesis of insoluble glucans and production of acid in vitro, and reduced the induction of caries in rats
Emodin is a natural anthraquinone derived from the roots and rhizomes of a number of plants including Rheum undulatum (R. undulatum) and Polygonum cuspidatum (P. cuspidatum)
Summary
Dental caries is an infectious oral disease prevalent across the world and it is associated with various pathogenic microorganisms. Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) is considered a crucial pathogen in the pathogenesis of dental caries [1] It is involved in the development and establishment of cariogenic biofilms. A previous study hypothesized that disrupting the ability of S. mutans to form acids and glucans may be an effective therapeutic approach for the treatment of dental caries [6]. The herbaceous plants Polygonum (Polygonaceae), Rhamnus (Rhamnaceae) and Senna (Fabaceae) have been successfully used as traditional medicines in East Asian countries [8,9] These herbs have demonstrated various pharmacological effects; for example, Polygonaceae have the ability to control dental diseases [10]. The aim of the present study was to examine the effects of emodin on the growth, acid production and insoluble glucan synthesis of S. mutans in vitro, and caries development in vivo
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
