Prevent Plaque Formation Research Articles

Synthesis and toxicity evaluation of a spray consisting of silver nanoparticles, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, methylsulfonylmethane, and xylitol on vero cell line

Abstract Introduction: Dental plaque is a biofilm or an accumulation of bacteria that grows in the internal surfaces of the mouth and can be observed as a white to pale yellow layer over or between teeth. The continuous formation and accumulation of dental plaque lead to oral diseases. As a result, it is necessary to prevent the aggregation of dental plaque and clean it daily. Recently, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) has been utilized in toothpaste to prevent plaque formation as an EDTA-transporting enhancer, methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) can effectively increase its local effect. Xylitol decreases the Streptococcus mutans count by changing the metabolic pathways. Aims: In the present study, we synthesized a solution containing silver nanoparticles, EDTA, MSM, and xylitol and evaluated its toxicity on the Vero cell line through the MTT assay. Materials and Methods: To produce silver nanoparticles, we dissolved silver nitrate in sodium citrate. Then we used a solution of distilled water and polyvinylpyrrolidone, which resulted in the encapsulation and stabilization of silver nanoparticles, and the solution was made by mixing other ingredients. We evaluated the cytotoxicity of this spray using the Vero cell line. We cultured the cells in the 10% FBS-containing RPMI culture medium. For performing the cytotoxicity test, we put 10,000 cells in each well of the 96-well plate, and the next day added the synthesized solution to each well at dilutions 0.05%, 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.5%, 1%, 2%, 5%, and 10%. As the control group, we used 4 wells containing live Vero cells without adding the solution. After 24, 48, and 72 h, we added the MTT solution to each well and incubated the plates at 37°C for 4 h. Finally, we evaluated the rate of living cells by reading the absorbance with an ELISA device at 570 nm. Results and Discussion: We used the Mann–Whitney nonparametric test to evaluate the cytotoxicity of different concentrations of the synthesized spray solution and compare the cell viability rate of groups with the controls in various periods. According to the cytotoxicity results of different concentrations of the spray solution on the Vero cell line, there was no significant difference in cytotoxicity between the 0.05%, 0.1%, 0.2%, and 0.5%, and control groups at 24, 48, and 72 h (P > 0.05). No significant difference existed in cytotoxicity between 1% and 2% concentrations and the controls 24 h after exposure; this became significant after 48 and 72 h (P = 0.014). However, a significant difference existed in cytotoxicity between 5% concentration and the controls 24, 48, and 72 h after exposure (P = 0.014). The CC50 of the spray solution was calculated at 3.51%. Conclusion: The findings of this study showed that the synthesized solution is nontoxic; therefore, this spray solution can be used safely as an oral mouthwash and spray.

Influence of Epigallocatechin gallate stabilized Gold nanoparticles in amyloid beta fibril inhibition

AbstractBackgroundA pathological Hallmark of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is the significant deposition of amyloid beta (Aβ) plaques in the brain. Several studies were reported to inhibit the Aβ fibrillation using nanoparticles, nanoclusters and bioconjugate nanomaterials for Alzheimer’s treatment. In recent years, natural compound (phytochemicals) have been largely used to study and identified as promising agents for the prevention and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases including AD.MethodGold nanoparticle with appropriate surface conjugates with higher affinity has been studied and acknowledge the interaction between Bio‐Nano interfaces. The surface covering or anchoring conjugates will play a major role in vitro and in vivo. Herein, we reported Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) stabilized gold nanoparticle (AuNps) were synthesised as a Aβ inhibitor.ResultThe synthesised EGCG‐AuNps Characterized using UV‐Vis Spectroscopy, DLS, XRD, SEM (EDAX) and TEM (SAED) and the biocompatibility were studied by using MTT and scratch assay. The synthesised EGCG‐AuNPs inhibiting Aβ aggregation, dissociation Aβ fibrils which lead to prevent plaque formation, which confirmed using Thioflavin T‐assay and TEM studies.ConclusionThis work provides new insights into the synthesised AuNps as functional therapeutic agent for AD.

Salvia miltiorrhiza and Tanshinone IIA reduce endothelial inflammation and atherosclerotic plaque formation through inhibiting COX-2

The mechanisms of Salvia miltiorrhiza (SM) and Tanshinone IIA (Tan IIA) in the treatment of atherosclerosis was examined by combining network pharmacology and molecular biology experiments. The TCMSP and BATMAN-TCM databases provided 104 SM candidate ingredients and 813 target genes, while GEO and GeneCards databases identified 35 overlapping targets between SM and coronary artery disease (CAD). From these data, we constructed a CAD-target-active ingredient network, and using Gene Ontology (GO) and KEGG pathway analysis, 211 GO terms and 43 pathways were identified, which facilitated the construction of a key active ingredient-target-pathway network. We then constructed a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and performed molecular docking simulations between Tan IIA and 10 key target proteins to analyze the interactions between the molecule and the protein. SM was found to alleviate CAD by reducing the expression of key pro-inflammatory factors, such as COX-2 (PTGS2), MMP9, ICAM1, TNF-α, and NF-κB. Tan IIA was identified as the primary effective component of SM in treating CAD, with TNF and PTGS2 being its main targets. We further validated these findings using in vitro/in vivo experiments. The results showed that both SM and Tan IIA attenuated the buildup of plaque and the accumulation of lipids in ApoE-/- mice. In addition, SM and Tan IIA reduced vascular inflammatory factors expression in ApoE-/- mice and ox-LDL-cultured HUVECs. Furthermore, our findings showed that Tan IIA reduced vascular endothelial inflammation and prevented plaque formation via COX-2/TNF-a/NF-κB signaling pathway. We have demonstrated for the first time that Tan IIA plays a vital role in attenuating atherosclerosis by downregulating COX-2 expression.

Prevention and Treatment of Acute Coronary Artery Syndrome

Acute coronary syndrome(ACS) refers to a group of clinical symptoms caused by acute myocardial ischemia, including unstable angina pectoris, acute myocardial infarction, and sudden ischemic death. In recent years, studies have shown that the main mechanism of its occurrence is the rupture of plaque and the consequent intravascular thrombosis. Multiple factors may lead to the occurrence of the disease. However, the mechanism of the histomorphological change from pre-fragmentation to post-fragmentation is still unclear. Vasospasm may also play an important role. Prevention of plaque formation and rupture or prevention of thrombosis by antithrombotic therapy is effective in reducing the incidence of acute coronary syndrome, and coronary intervention also reduces the mortality of acute coronary syndrome. Some new therapies, such as gene therapy, are still in the experimental stage. At the same time, people should improve the awareness of disease prevention, and the most active prevention is the best means of disease treatment.

Galectin-9: A novel promoter of atherosclerosis progression

Background and aimsAtherosclerosis is widely accepted to be an inflammatory disease driven by lipid accumulation and leukocyte recruitment. More recently, galectins, a family of β-galactoside binding proteins, have been shown to play a role in leukocyte recruitment among other immunomodulatory functions. Galectin (Gal) −9, a tandem repeat type galectin expressed by the endothelium in inflammatory environments, has been proposed to promote leukocyte recruitment. However, the role of Gal-9 in the context of monocyte recruitment remains elusive. Methods and ResultsHere, we characterise the immunomodulatory role of Gal-9 in context of atherosclerosis. We show that ApoE−/−Gal-9−/− mice have a significantly reduced aortic plaque burden compared to their ApoE−/− littermate controls after 12 weeks of high fat diet. RNA sequencing data from two independent studies reveal Lgals9 expression in leukocyte clusters isolated from murine atherosclerotic plaques. Additionally, soluble Gal-9 protein induces monocyte activation and a pro-inflammatory phenotype in macrophages. Furthermore, we show that immobilised recombinant Gal-9 acts as capture and adhesion molecule for CD14+ monocytes in a β2-integrin and glycan dependent manner, while adhesion of monocytes to stimulated endothelium is reduced when Gal-9 is knocked down. Gal-9 also facilitates enhanced recruitment of leukocytes from peripheral arterial disease (PAD) patients compared to healthy young and aged controls. We further characterise the endothelium as source of circulating Gal-9, which is increased in plasma of PAD patients compared to healthy controls. ConclusionsThese results highlight a pathological role for Gal-9 as promoter of monocyte recruitment and atherosclerotic plaque progression, making it a novel target in the prevention of plaque formation and progression.

Taro (Colosia esculenta) Leaves Extract Inhibits Streptococcus mutans ATCC 31987

Dental caries was the most common disease in both adults and children. Streptococcus mutans is the main bacteria causing plaque formation and was the initiator of dental caries. Antibacterials derived from plants can be used to prevent plaque formation. Taro (Colosia esculenta) has been used in traditional medicine. Antibacterial compounds have been discovered in C. esculenta leaves. This study aimed to determine the ability of C. esculenta leaf ethanol extract to inhibit the growth of S. mutans ATCC 31987. Simplicia preparation, extract preparation, and phytochemical screening was carried out. Then, the antibacterial activity test was performed using the disc diffusion method to determine the zone of inhibition at various concentrations of 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, and 70%. Colosia esculenta leaf ethanol extract contains alkaloids, flavonoids, triterpenoids, saponins, and produces an inhibition zone at each concentration variation. Very strong antibacterial activity was produced at a concentration of 70% at 21.11±0.46 mm, which was higher than the positive control.

Health promotion through structured oral hygiene and good tooth alignment.

Aim: Periodontal diseases and caries are two of the most common forms of chronic degenerative diseases, with consequences not only for the oral cavity manifesting as tooth loss, orofacial pain and xerostomia, but also with effects on the cardiovascular system and, in the elderly, on the pneumonia rate. This can be prevented or controlled by structured oral hygiene.Method: Based on a systematic literature search in PubMed, the possibilities for ensuring structured oral hygiene are analyzed.Results and conclusion: Limiting the consumption of sugary meals and beverages, regular removal of food debris – supplemented by sugar-free chewing gum if desired – and preventing plaque formation by brushing with fluoridated toothpastes, using dental floss and interdental brushes after meals, serve to prevent or control gingivitis, periodontitis and caries. In the long term, the development of periodontitis-associated cardiovascular diseases and, in the elderly, the risk of pneumonia can probably be reduced. Antiseptic rinsing of the oral cavity is an important supplement to prevent periodontitis, especially in cases of limited ability to perform mechanical biofilm removal, but also for the prevention of respiratory infections. Proper functional tooth alignment is important for optimal mechanical cleaning to prevent plaque accumulation. If correction of misaligned teeth is possible with the use of removable aligners instead of fixed orthodontic appliances, these are to be preferred because of the better accessibility for mechanical hygiene measures.

Ефективність та безпечність засобів догляду за порожниною рота

У статті подано класифікацію основних антисептичних хіміотерапевтичних активних речовин, що використовуються в засобах індивідуальної гігієни для догляду за порожниною рота. Проведено аналіз ефективності та безпечності активних інгредієнтів зубних паст та ополіскувачів. Наведений аналіз літературних джерел щодо клінічної ефективності застосування комбінації амінофториду з фторидом олова в превенції утворення зубного нальоту та запальних процесів ротової порожнини.

Survey of Approaches for Investigation of Atherosclerosis In Vivo.

Although in vitro model systems are useful for investigation of atherosclerosis-associated processes, they represent simplification of complex events that occur in vivo, which involve interactions between many different cell types together with their environment. The use of animal model systems is important for more in-depth insights of the molecular mechanisms underlying atherosclerosis and for identifying potential targets for agents that can prevent plaque formation and even reverse existing disease. This chapter will provide a survey of such animal models and associated techniques that are routinely used for research of atherosclerosis in vivo.

Abstract 11489: Oral Rhamnan Sulfate Reduces Vascular Inflammation and Atherosclerotic Plaque Formation

Introduction: The glycocalyx, an interior lining of blood vessels, forms a barrier against inflammation and atherosclerotic risk factors. It is degraded during plaque development, allowing fat deposition in the intima. Rhamnan sulfate (RS), a polysaccharide from green seaweed, resembles GAGs such as heparan sulfate in the glycocalyx. Hypothesis: We hypothesize that RS can replace and rejuvenate the glycocalyx to enhance barrier function and prevent plaque formation. Methods: In vitro, we tested the effects of RS on proliferation, migration and permeability to LDL. We used western blots to measure the efficacy of RS in inhibiting the NF-κb pathway. We also performed atomic force microscopy on endothelial cells to test effects of RS on glycocalyx stiffness and thickness post-inflammation. In vivo, we conducted a study in female and male ApoE -/- mice on a high fat diet for 13 weeks where RS treatment was provided orally (n = 10 per group). Results: Rhamnan sulfate decreased growth factor induced proliferation and migration of endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cells. It increased heparan sulfate coverage and decreased the permeability of endothelial cells to LDL. It also decreased the activation of NF-κb in response to TNF-α treatment while also binding to NF-κb subunits. In ApoE -/- mice, oral consumption of RS decreased cholesterol levels in the plasma by 22.5% in female mice. En face analysis of aorta showed that plaque area decreased by 45.2% in female and 36.4% in male mice. In female mice, lipid deposition and stenosis decreased in the aortic arches and thoracic aortas while only lipid deposition was reduced in the aortic arches of male mice. Inflammatory factors were also decreased in the aortic arches of female mice. In livers of these mice, RS treatment reduced NAFLD activity scores and lipid deposition in females and unsaturated lipid content in males. RNA sequencing showed significant differences in genes related to metabolism, circadian rhythm and lipid regulation between high fat diet and RS groups and male and female mice. Conclusions: Rhamnan sulfate reduces inflammation in endothelial cells and proliferation of vSMCs. It also reduces plaque formation in aorta of ApoE -/- mice.

Data Mining of Molecular Simulations Suggest Key Amino Acid Residues for Aggregation, Signaling and Drug Action.

Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia, currently has no cure. There are only temporary treatments that reduce symptoms and the progression of the disease. Alzheimer’s disease is characterized by the prevalence of plaques of aggregated amyloid β (Aβ) peptide. Recent treatments to prevent plaque formation have provided little to relieve disease symptoms. Although there have been numerous molecular simulation studies on the mechanisms of Aβ aggregation, the signaling role has been less studied. In this study, a total of over 38,000 simulated structures, generated from molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, exploring different conformations of the Aβ42 mutants and wild-type peptides were used to examine the relationship between Aβ torsion angles and disease measures. Unique methods characterized the data set and pinpointed residues that were associated in aggregation and others associated with signaling. Machine learning techniques were applied to characterize the molecular simulation data and classify how much each residue influenced the predicted variant of Alzheimer’s Disease. Orange3 data mining software provided the ability to use these techniques to generate tables and rank the data. The test and score module coupled with the confusion matrix module analyzed data with calculations of specificity and sensitivity. These methods evaluating frequency and rank allowed us to analyze and predict important residues associated with different phenotypic measures. This research has the potential to help understand which specific residues of Aβ should be targeted for drug development.

An Examination of the Structural Association of PSEN1 with Alzheimer's Disease

The PSEN1 gene located on chromosome 14 encodes the presenilin-1 (PS1) protein, the catalytic subunit of the γ-secretase complex responsible for cleaving type 1 transmembrane proteins including amyloid-beta precursor protein (APP), which plays a role in Alzheimer's disease (AD). The Olathe North MSOE Center for BioMolecular Modeling MAPS team examined various pathogenic mutations of the PSEN1 gene to identify relationships between mutated PS1 structure and function and AD. PS1 consists of 9 transmembrane (TM) domains. During maturation of the γ-secretase complex, the protein is cleaved at an endoproteolytic site within the large hydrophilic loop between TM6 and TM7, yielding a 30 kDa N-terminal fragment (NTF) and 20 kDa C-terminal fragment (CTF). A catalytic aspartate residue in TM6 (asp257) and TM7 (asp385) are key for γ-secretase substrate-cleavage activity. Mutation of the large hydrophilic loop, the endoproteolytic site, or either catalytic aspartate interferes with APP binding, decreasing beta-amyloid (Aβ) production. Of the more than 200 known pathogenic PSEN1 mutations, all result in an increased ratio of Aβ42 to Aβ40 and aggregation of Aβ42. They do not interfere with stable PS1 expression or γ-secretase assembly and thus are thought to primarily affect catalytic γ-secretase activity by reducing the stability of the protein-substrate complex, leading to premature release of Aβ42. The large majority of pathogenic PSEN1 mutations interfere with γ-secretase subunit or APP interaction, resulting in somewhat, greatly, or completely diminished Aβ production, typically with greater effect on Aβ40 than Aβ42. Current studies regarding AD-causing PSEN1 mutations involve observation of the severity of the impact of mutations on Aβ production and examination of mechanisms of pathogenesis. Phosphorylation of several allosteric sites on PS1 has recently been found to be responsible for the pathogenic ‘closed’ conformation of PS1, resulting in βCTF degradation and decreased Aβ production. It has been consequently hypothesized that phosphorylation of these sites may be effective in reducing or preventing plaque formation as a therapy or prevention for AD, providing avenues for further research.

Antimicrobial efficacy of copper nanoparticles against Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans and Porphyromonas gingivalis: An in-vitro study

Background: Plaque accumulation on teeth surfaces and prosthetic or orthodontic appliances present a serious challenge for the maintenance of oral health. Copper nanoparticles (NPs) can be incorporated into coatings and applied to restorative materials to prevent plaque formation and the progression of periodontal diseases. Objective: The aim of this article is to evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy of copper NPs against selected periodontal pathogens (Porphyromonas gingivalis and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans). Methods: The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of copper NPs were determined using broth dilution assay. Copper NPs (size: 30—50 nm, purity: 99.9%) were used for the study. Results: Both P. gingivalis and A. actinomycetemcomitans were sensitive to copper NPs. Nano-copper had a bactericidal effect against P. gingivalis at a concentration of 0.8 μg/mL and a bacteriostatic effect against the bacterium at a concentration of 0.4 μg/mL. For A. actinomycetemcomitans, nano-copper had a bactericidal effect at a concentration of 3.12 μg/mL and a bacteriostatic effect at a 1.6 μg/mL concentration. Conclusion: Nano-copper exhibits an antibacterial effect against periodontal pathogens. Future studies are needed to explore the applicability of these copper-based antimicrobial agents in clinical settings.

Nanoparticle-Based Approaches towards the Treatment of Atherosclerosis.

Atherosclerosis, being an inflammation-associated disease, represents a considerable healthcare problem. Its origin remains poorly understood, and at the same time, it is associated with extensive morbidity and mortality worldwide due to myocardial infarctions and strokes. Unfortunately, drugs are unable to effectively prevent plaque formation. Systemic administration of pharmaceuticals for the inhibition of plaque destabilization bears the risk of adverse effects. At present, nanoscience and, in particular, nanomedicine has made significant progress in both imaging and treatment of atherosclerosis. In this review, we focus on recent advances in this area, discussing subjects such as nanocarriers-based drug targeting principles, approaches towards the treatment of atherosclerosis, utilization of theranostic agents, and future prospects of nanoformulated therapeutics against atherosclerosis and inflammatory diseases. The focus is placed on articles published since 2015 with additional attention to research completed in 2019–2020.

Isolation of Prunin FromBauhinia variegataand Its Antioxidant Activity in Rats Fed an Atherogenic Diet

Atherosclerosis is no longer a disease attributed mainly to high cholesterol content in the body; it has come to be regarded as a chronic inflammatory disease with an autoimmune component. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of the prunin fraction (PF) isolated from the ethanolic extract of Bauhinia variegata against the release of various proinflammatory mediators in rats fed an atherogenic diet. The diet was administered orally to Sprague Dawley rats for 60 days to induce atherosclerosis. The blood serum of the rats was used to estimate the levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), thiobarbituric acid reactive substance, catalase, total cholesterol, triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein, and high-density lipoprotein using assay kits. Other physical parameters, such as body weight, feed intake, and systolic blood pressure, were also determined during the study. The results showed a significant protective effect of the PF against diet-induced atherosclerosis by decreasing the levels of proinflammatory mediators such as TNF-α and IL-6. Rats treated with PF (20 and 40 mg/kg) showed a change in systolic blood pressure and a reduction in oxidative stress induced by the atherogenic diet. Reduction in body weight and modulation of food intake were observed in PF-treated rats, which indicated atheroprotective, hypolipidemic, and antioxidant effects. The study concludes that the atheroprotective properties of PF are due to effects on the initial phase of plaque formation to thrombus formation. This study may help researchers to find a better alternative for selecting optimal therapies and preventing plaque formation. Future Significance: This article focuses on the molecular mechanisms involved in the evolution of atherosclerotic plaques and different targets that act at the starting stage of the plaque to thrombus formation. This may pave the way for selecting optimal therapies and preventing plaque complications.

ORAI2 Down-Regulation Potentiates SOCE and Decreases Aβ42 Accumulation in Human Neuroglioma Cells.

Senile plaques, the hallmarks of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), are generated by the deposition of amyloid-beta (Aβ), the proteolytic product of amyloid precursor protein (APP), by β and γ-secretase. A large body of evidence points towards a role for Ca2+ imbalances in the pathophysiology of both sporadic and familial forms of AD (FAD). A reduction in store-operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE) is shared by numerous FAD-linked mutations, and SOCE is involved in Aβ accumulation in different model cells. In neurons, both the role and components of SOCE remain quite obscure, whereas in astrocytes, SOCE controls their Ca2+-based excitability and communication to neurons. Glial cells are also directly involved in Aβ production and clearance. Here, we focus on the role of ORAI2, a key SOCE component, in modulating SOCE in the human neuroglioma cell line H4. We show that ORAI2 overexpression reduces both SOCE level and stores Ca2+ content, while ORAI2 downregulation significantly increases SOCE amplitude without affecting store Ca2+ handling. In Aβ-secreting H4-APPswe cells, SOCE inhibition by BTP2 and SOCE augmentation by ORAI2 downregulation respectively increases and decreases Aβ42 accumulation. Based on these findings, we suggest ORAI2 downregulation as a potential tool to rescue defective SOCE in AD, while preventing plaque formation.

Genistein Has Antiviral Activity against Herpes B Virus and Acts Synergistically with Antiviral Treatments to Reduce Effective Dose.

Herpes B virus is a deadly zoonotic agent that can be transmitted to humans from the macaque monkey, an animal widely used in biomedical research. Currently, there is no cure for human B virus infection and treatments require a life-long daily regimen of antivirals, namely acyclovir and ganciclovir. Long-term antiviral treatments have been associated with significant debilitating side effects, thus, there is an ongoing search for alternative efficacious antiviral treatment. In this study, the antiviral activity of genistein was quantified against B virus in a primary cell culture model system. Genistein prevented plaque formation of B virus and reduced virus production with an IC50 value of 33 and 46 μM for human and macaque fibroblasts, respectively. Genistein did not interfere directly with viral entry, but instead targeted an event post-viral replication. Finally, we showed that genistein could be used at its IC50 concentration in conjunction with both acyclovir and ganciclovir to reduce their effective dose against B virus with a 93% and 99% reduction in IC50 values, respectively. The results presented here illuminate the therapeutic potential of genistein as an effective antiviral agent against B virus when used alone or in combination with current antiviral therapies.

Comparative Efficacy in Preventing Plaque Formation around Pit and Fissure Sealants: A Clinical Trial

The purpose of this study is to compare the clinical performance of an organo-selenium-containing pit and fissure sealant with that of a selenium-free sealant for clinical retention and prevention of plaque and caries development around the sealants. Following an in vitro study confirming the antimicrobial effect of an organo-selenium-containing pit/fissure sealant [DenteShield™ (DS)], 120 adolescents (7-20 years old) at varying caries risk status had DS sealant applied to a single tooth on the left or the right side of the dentition and UltraSeal™ XT Plus (UXT) on a corresponding tooth on the opposite side. Sealants' assessment was performed quarterly for 1 year for clinical retention, plaque, and caries formation around the sealant. Each sealant lost was replaced but considered as a failure in further analysis. McNemar's test was used to statistically analyze the outcome variables at each assessment time point. While 7% and 12% plaque growth was observed around the UXT sealant at 9th and 12th months, respectively, DS exhibited 100% prevention of plaque growth. Both sealants exhibited 100% caries prevention. Clinical retention did not significantly differ between DS and UXT at all assessment time points except at 12 months when DS showed statistically significantly (p < 0.001) better retention (96%) than UXT (81%). In this study, while both sealants are equally effective in caries prevention, DS completely prevented plaque growth around it with better clinical retention than UXT that offered only limited protection against plaque growth. Being antimicrobial, DS pit and fissure sealant may be the best sealant option for patients whose caries risk status is due to poor oral hygiene.

The effect of ethanol extract of soursop leaf (Annona muricata L.) on Adhesion of Streptococcus mutans ATCC 35668 to hydroxyapatite discs

The demineralization of dental hard tissues can be caused by dental plaque. Dental plaque contains various components, especially bacteria attached to the extracellular matrix. Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) has extracellular glucan as adhesin that is important in the attachment mechanism of tooth surface. The natural substance can be used for preventing plaque formation by inhibiting the attachment of S. mutans. Soursop plant has been used in treating various diseases. The leaves of the soursop (Annona muricata L.) are used as a material to inhibit potential attachment of bacteria S. mutans. Common surfaces that is used in adhesion testing is hydroxyapatite (HA). The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of ethanol extract of soursop leaf (EESL) on the adhesion of S. mutans ATCC 35668 to HA discs. Soursop leaves were extracted by the maceration method using 70% ethanol. The experiment was carried out by analyzing the inhibition adhesion of S. mutans ATCC 35668 on HA discs after incubation with different concentrations of soursop leaf extract. The concentrations of extract tested were: 150; 125; 100; 75; and 50 mg/ml. Chlorhexidine 0.2% was used as a positive control while DMSO 5% was used a negative one. Data were evaluated by One Way Anova. This study statistically showed significant differences of S. mutans colony count between groups (p&lt;0.05).The results of a post hoc Dunnett T3 test showed that the 2 highest concentrations of extract (125 and 150 mg/ml) reduced S. mutans adhesion on HA discs.The obtained results showed that ethanol extract of soursop leave inhibits the adherence of S. mutans to the HA disc.

Zhixiong Capsule (ZXC), a traditional Chinese patent medicine, prevents atherosclerotic plaque formation in rabbit carotid artery and the related mechanism investigation based on network pharmacology and biological research

Background and aimsChinese patent medicine Zhixiong Capsule (ZXC) has been used in clinical treatment against blood stasis-induced dizziness and headache for many years in China. Hypothesis/PurposeRecent clinical observations demonstrated a good efficacy of ZXC against atherosclerotic plaque formation in carotid arteries. The aims of this study were to verify the plaque-preventing efficacy of ZXC in animals and to investigate the underlying mechanisms. Study design/MethodsZXC (185 mg/kg and 370 mg/kg) was administrated to rabbits which received collar implantation accompanied with high fat diet administration (12 days). The blood-dissolved components of ZXC were identified by an UPLC-QTOF-MS method. The key components and targets of ZXC were then predicted based on network pharmacology analysis and biological investigations. ResultsCompared with vehicle control group, ZXC administration (185 mg/kg) significantly prevented plaque formation and attenuated intima thickening in the collar-implanted carotid arteries, markedly decreased blood lipid level, and increased plasma IL-4 level in rabbits. A total of 23 blood-dissolved components were identified. Four ingredients (namely, kaempferol, daidzein, puerarin, miltirone) along with leech, and three targets (namely, JUN, FOS and TP53) were recognized to play important roles for ZXC bioactivity. ConclusionIt could be concluded that ZXC could be applied to prevent atherosclerotic plaque formation and intimal thickening in carotid arteries at the current clinical dose.