Streptococcus Mutans Research Articles

Determining the Phytochemical Properties and Antibiogram of Different Chewing Stick Plants on Selected Streptococcal Species Isolated from the Oral Cavity

Chewing sticks are small twigs obtained from plant stems, measuring 12-25cm long and tied in bundles of 5-10. These twigs have been used for oral hygiene for many years, even before the invention of toothpaste, mouthwash, and mouth sprays. This study aims to determine the phytochemical properties and antibiogram of different chewing stick plants on two streptococcal species isolated from the oral cavity. Streptococcus pyogenes and Streptococcus mutans were isolated from oral swabs of patients at Rivers State University Teaching Hospital and identified to the species level. The pure isolates were further tested against the antimicrobial effects of the aqueous and ethanolic extracts of four chewing stick plants: Vernonia amygdalina, Jatropha curcas, Massularia acuminate, and Phyllanthus mullerianus. Qualitative phytochemical screening and quantitative analysis were carried out on the plant stems to determine the presence of antimicrobials. The percentage of antimicrobials present in the plant stems ranged from 33.3% to 66.7%, with Jatropha curcas, Massularia acuminate, and Vernonia amygdalina exhibiting the highest percentages, and Phyllanthus mullerianus the lowest. The antibiogram of the isolates to conventional gram-positive antibiotics was determined by the disc diffusion method. Streptococcus pyogenes showed 75% sensitivity and 25% resistance to the antibiotics, while Streptococcus mutans displayed 50% sensitivity, 16.7% intermediate, and 33.3% resistance to the antibiotics. The investigation found that the ethanolic extract of Massularia acuminate has the highest zone of inhibition of 15.5 ±0.71mm at 100mg/ml, while Phyllanthus mullerianus exhibited the least inhibition at 8 ±0mm. The ethanolic extract of Jatropha curcas and Vernonia amygdalina showed little effect on the test isolates, with a range of 0-9.5±0.71mm. The aqueous extract ranged from 8±5.7 - 9.5±0.71mm at 100mg/ml, with Massulara acuminate exhibiting the highest and the lowest zones of inhibition. This finding indicates that Massularia accuminate has the ability to suppress the growth of dental plaque-forming Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus pyogenes. Chewing sticks are more affordable and easily accessible, so they could be recommended in community oral health programs.

Developing a novel calcium silver zeolite for caries management

ObjectiveTo develop a novel calcium silver zeolite (Ca-Ag-Zeo) and assess its biocompatibility, physiochemical properties and antimicrobial effects.MethodsCa-Ag-Zeo was synthesized using ion-exchange method with calcium chloride, silver nitrate and Zeolite X (Zeo). Silver zeolite X (Ag-Zeo) and Zeo were set as control. The chemical structure, morphology, crystal structure and elemental composition of Ca-Ag-Zeo was characterized by X-ray diffraction spectrum, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy, respectively. Its biocompatibility on the human gingival fibroblasts was assessed by cell counting kit-8 assay. Its physiochemical properties were determined by the released calcium and silver ion using Inductive Coupled Plasma Emission Spectrometry for up to 12 weeks. The antimicrobial properties on Streptococcus mutans, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei, and Candida albicans were assessed by minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) or minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) assay.ResultsCa-Ag-Zeo with a hexagonal cage structure was synthesized. As for biocompatibility, the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (± SD in mg/mL) of Ca-Ag-Zeo, Ag-Zeo and Zeo in human gingival fibroblasts were 0.52 ± 0.05, 0.15 ± 0.01 and 3.35 ± 0.58, respectively (Zeo > Ca-Ag-Zeo > Ag-Zeo; p < 0.05). As for physiochemical properties, the accumulated ion release (± SD in mg) of Ca-Ag-Zeo, Ag-Zeo and Zeo were 0.011 ± 0.003, 0 and 0 for calcium ion, respectively (Ca-Ag-Zeo > Ag-Zeo, Zeo; p < 0.001), and 0.213 ± 0.032, 0.209 ± 0.019 and 0 for silver ion, respectively (Ca-Ag-Zeo, Ag-Zeo > Zeo; p < 0.001). As for anti-microbial ability, the MBC/MFC (mg/mL) of Ca-Ag-Zeo, Ag-Zeo and Zeo were 32, 16 and > 256 against Streptococcus mutans; 32, 16, > 256 against Lactobacillus acidophilus; 16, 16, and 256 against Lactobacillus casei; 0.25, 0.125; and 2, 1, > 256 against Candida albicans, respectively.ConclusionA novel Ca-Ag-Zeo was developed. It presented better biocompatibility compared to Ag-Zeo. It released calcium and silver ions sustainably, and it could inhibit the growth of common cariogenic microorganisms.

Antimicrobial Effect of Medicinal Plants Against Streptococcus mutans: A Literature Review

The present study aims to evaluate, through a literature review, the antimicrobial potential of medicinal plants against Streptococcus mutans. Method: A bibliographic search was conducted in the PubMed database using the descriptors "phytotherapy," "medicinal plants," and "Streptococcus mutans," either combined or not, covering the period from 2011 to 2021. The search resulted in 99 articles. In the initial screening, 79 articles were excluded for not being related to the topic. Twenty articles were selected, but only 12 met the eligibility criteria, which included studies evaluating the antimicrobial effect of a single medicinal plant on S. mutans only. Among the results, several plant species with antimicrobial potential against S. mutans were identified, including Annona senegalensis, Melia azedarach, Copaifera langsdorffii, Copaifera officinalis, Zingiber zerumbet, Terminalia chebula, Trachyspermum ammi, Ocimum sanctum, Teucrium polium, Vitis vinifera L., and Cinnamomum zeylanicum Blume. In summary, all studies showed antimicrobial effects against S. mutans, with particular emphasis on the studies with copaiba oil, M. azedarach crude extract, and T. polium, which demonstrated superior and comparable results to the effects of chlorhexidine, respectively.

Contribution of collagen-binding protein Cnm of Streptococcus mutans to induced IgA nephropathy-like nephritis in rats

IgA nephropathy (IgAN), the most common primary glomerulonephritis, is considered an intractable disease with unknown pathogenic factors. In our previous study, Streptococcus mutans, the major causative bacteria of dental caries, which expresses Cnm, was related to the induction of IgAN-like nephritis. In the present study, the Cnm-positive S. mutans parental strain, a Cnm-defective isogenic mutant strain, its complementation strain, and recombinant Cnm (rCnm) protein were administered intravenously to Sprague Dawley rats, and the condition of their kidneys was evaluated focusing on the pathogenicity of Cnm. Rats treated with parental and complement bacterial strains and rCnm protein developed IgAN-like nephritis with mesangial proliferation and IgA and C3 mesangial deposition. Scanning immunoelectron microscopy revealed that rCnm was present in the electron-dense deposition area of the mesangial region in the rCnm protein group. These results demonstrated that the Cnm protein itself is an important factor in the induction of IgAN in rats.

Comparing The Antibacterial Effectiveness Of Indigenously Derived Propolis In Various Vehicles Against Streptococcus Mutans Biofilm Formation: A Study With Contemporary Pulp Capping Agents

Comparing The Antibacterial Effectiveness Of Indigenously Derived Propolis In Various Vehicles Against Streptococcus Mutans Biofilm Formation: A Study With Contemporary Pulp Capping Agents

Photoactivated riboflavin-doped hydroxy apatite nanospheres infiltered in orthodontic adhesives.

To assess micro-tensile bond strength (μTBS), degree of conversion (DC), microleakage (ML) antibacterial efficacy, and adhesive remnant index (ARI) of orthodontic brackets to enamel with different concentrations of photoactivated riboflavin-doped hydroxyapatite (HA) nanospheres (NS) (0%,1%,5% and 10%) and 0.5 wt% RF alone in orthodontic adhesive. Samples were included on the predefined inclusion criteria and positioned up to the cementoenamel junction (CEJ). Hydroxy apatite nanospheres (HANS) commercially bought were doped with RF. Surface characterization of HANS and RF-doped HANS were assessed along with EDX analysis. Samples were grouped based on experimental orthodontic adhesive modification. Group 1: Transbond XT no modification, Group 2: experimental Transbond XT 0.5 wt% RF, Group 3: experimental Transbond XT 0.5 wt% RF-doped 1% HANS, Group 4: experimental Transbond XT 0.5 wt % RF-doped 5% HANS and Group 5: Experimental Transbond XT 0.5 wt% RF-doped 10% HANS. Brackets were placed based on different adhesive modifications and samples underwent thermocycling. Samples were evaluated for μTBS, DC, and ML. The type of failure was assessed using ARI. Adhesive modified and un-modified in four different concentrations (0%, 1%, 5%, and 10%) and 0.5 wt% RF only were used to test efficacy against Streptococcus mutans (S.mutans). The survival rate of S.mutans and ML was determined using the Kruskal-Wallis Test. For the analysis of μTBS, ANOVA was employed, followed by a post-hoc Tukey HSD multiple comparisons test. The highest μTBS and lowest ML were observed in Group 2 experimental Transbond XT 0.5 wt% RF only. The lowest μTBS, highest ML, and lowest DC was seen in Group 5 experimental Transbond XT 0.5 wt% RF-doped 10% HANS. Samples in Group 1 in which Transbond XT was used as adhesive demonstrated significantly the highest microbial count of S.mutans and DC. Photoactivated RF-doped HANS in 1% and 0.5 wt% Riboflavin alone in orthodontic adhesive for metallic bracket bonding improved micro tensile bond strength, ML, DC, and antibacterial scores. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: The highest μTBS and lowest ML were observed in Group 2 experimental Transbond XT 0.5 wt% RF only. The lowest μTBS, highest ML, and lowest DC was seen in Group 5 experimental Transbond XT 0.5 wt% RF-doped 10% HA-NS. Samples in Group 1 in which Transbond XT was used as adhesive demonstrated significantly the highest microbial count of S.mutans and DC.

Multilocus sequence typing and phenotypic properties of Streptococcus mutans from Thai children with different caries statuses

BackgroundStreptococcus mutans is studied for its acidogenic and aciduric characteristics, notably its biofilm formation in the presence of sucrose, toward its role in the caries process. Variations in both genotype and phenotype have been reported among clinical isolates of S. mutans. This study aimed to examine genotypic and phenotypic characteristics of S. mutans obtained from Thai children with varying caries statuses.MethodsWe determined the presence of S. mutans and caries status in 395 children aged 3–4 years. From 325 children carrying S. mutans, we selected 90 with different caries statuses—caries-free (CF; n = 30), low severity of caries (LC; n = 30), or high severity of caries (HC; n = 30). Three isolates of S. mutans were taken from each child, thus, a total of 270 isolates were obtained. Multilocus sequence typing (MLST) was used to genotype the isolates and assess their clonal relationships. The properties, including biofilm formation, collagen binding, and acid production and tolerance were also evaluated.ResultsChildren with carious lesions showed a higher detection rate and number of S. mutans in saliva than those without caries. S. mutans from individuals with HC status showed the lowest biofilm formation ability, while this group had the highest detection rate of collagen-binding isolates. There was no difference in acid production or tolerance by caries status. Genotyping by MLST did not reveal any clone of S. mutans specific to CF status. This result remained even when we included MLST data from the open-access PubMLST database. MLST did identify clones containing only strains from caries-affected hosts, but tests of their phenotypic properties did not reveal any differences between S. mutans from these clones and clones that were from both caries-free and caries-affected children.ConclusionsThe clonal relationships of S. mutans indicated by MLST were not associated with the status of dental caries in the host.

Genomic analysis of conjugative and chromosomally integrated mobile genetic elements in oral streptococci.

This study aimed to investigate the diversity of conjugative and chromosomally integrated mobile genetic elements (cciMGEs) within six oral streptococci species. cciMGEs, including integrative and conjugative elements (ICEs) and integrative and mobilizable elements (IMEs), are stably maintained on the host cell chromosome; however, under certain conditions, they are able to excise, form extrachromosomal circles, and transfer via a conjugation apparatus. Many cciMGEs encode "cargo" functions that aid survival in new niches and evolve new antimicrobial resistance or virulence properties, whereas others have been shown to influence host bacterial physiology. Here, using a workflow employing preexisting bioinformatics tools, we analyzed 551 genomes for the presence of cciMGEs across six common health- and disease-associated oral streptococci. We identified 486 cciMGEs, 173 of which were ICEs and 233 of which were IMEs. The cciMGEs were diverse in size, cargo genes, and relaxase types. We identified several novel relaxase proteins and a widespread IME carrying a small multidrug resistance transporter. Additionally, we provide evidence that several of the bioinformatically predicted cciMGEs encoded within various Streptococcus mutans strains are capable of excision and circularization, a critical step for cciMGE conjugative transfer. These findings highlight the significance and potential impact of MGEs in shaping the genetic landscape, pathogenicity, and antimicrobial resistance profiles of the oral microbiota.IMPORTANCEOral streptococci are important players in the oral microbiome, influencing both health and disease states within dental bacterial communities. Evolutionary adaptation, shaped in a major part by the horizontal transfer of genes, is essential for their survival in the oral cavity and within new environments. Conjugation is a significant driver of horizontal gene transfer; however, there is limited information regarding this process in oral bacteria. This study utilizes publicly available genome sequences to identify conjugative and chromosomally integrated mobile genetic elements (cciMGEs) across several species of oral streptococci and presents the preliminary characterization of these elements. Our findings significantly enhance our understanding of the mobile genomic landscape of oral streptococci critical for human health, with valuable insights into how cciMGEs might influence the survival and pathogenesis of these bacteria in the oral microbiome.

Antimicrobial and synergistic effects of lemongrass and geranium essential oils against Streptococcus mutans, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida spp.

The oral cavity harbors more than 700 species of bacteria, which play crucial roles in the development of various oral diseases including caries, endodontic infection, periodontal infection, and diverse oral diseases. To investigate the antimicrobial action of Cymbopogon Schoenanthus and Pelargonium graveolens essential oils against Streptococcus mutans, Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans, Ca. dubliniensis, and Ca. krusei. Minimum microbicidal concentration was determined following Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute documents. The synergistic antimicrobial activity was evaluated using the Broth microdilution checkerboard method, and the antibiofilm activity was evaluated with the 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5 diphenyl tetrazolium bromide assay. Data were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance followed by the Tukey post-hoc test (P ≤ 0.05). C. schoenanthus and P. graveolens essential oils were as effective as 0.12% chlorhexidine against S. mutans and St. aureus monotypic biofilms after 24 h. After 24 h P. graveolens essential oil at 0.25% was more effective than the nystatin group, and C. schoenanthus essential oil at 0.25% was as effective as the nystatin group. C. schoenanthus and P. graveolens essential oils are effective against S. mutans, St. aureus, Ca. albicans, Ca. dubliniensis, and Ca. krusei at different concentrations after 5 min and 24 h.

ActA-mediated PykF acetylation negatively regulates oxidative stress adaptability of Streptococcus mutans.

Dental caries poses a significant challenge to global oral health, driven by microbial dysbiosis within dental biofilms. The pathogenicity of Streptococcus mutans, a major cariogenic bacterium, is closely linked to its ability to adapt to changing environments and cellular stresses. Our investigation into the protein acetylation mechanisms, particularly through the acetyltransferase ActA, reveals a critical pathway by which S. mutans modulates its adaptability to oxidative stress, the dominant stressor within dental biofilms. By elucidating how ActA affects the oxidative stress adaptability and competitiveness of S. mutans through the regulatory axis of ActA-PykF-pyruvate, our findings provide insights into the dynamic interplay between cariogenic and commensal bacteria within dental biofilms. This work emphasizes the significance of protein acetylation in bacterial stress response and competitiveness, opening avenues for the development of novel strategies to maintain oral microbial balance within dental biofilms.

Early oral colonization of streptococcus mutans and lactobacilli species in infants: Investigating the relationship with maternal and environmental factors, from birth through the sixth month.

To assess the presence of Streptococcus Mutans (S.mutans) and Lactobacillus species (LB) of newborn-mother pairs using the real time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Subjects were selected from the patients followed in the Neonatology Clinic of Akdeniz University's Faculty of Medicine between the years 2017-2018. First samples collected within 48 hours after birth, and second samples were at six months. The samples were analyzed for the presence of S.mutans and LB using qRT-PCR. Mothers' smoking habits, education level, occupation, oral hygiene habits, DMFT scores and dietary history; Babies' delivery type, birth weight, feeding type, oral hygiene practices, feeding habits, bottle usage, pacifier usage, consumption of sugary foods, were also recorded. The effect of factors related to both mothers and infants was examined comparatively. S.mutans DNA was detectable in 87% and LB DNA was detected in 37% mothers, while it was undetected in 63% mothers at the first sampling. S.mutans was detected in 37% and, while LB was detected in 5% of the newborns in the first 48 hours of their life. At the second sampling, the S.mutans and LB levels in infants have increased, while there has been no significant change in mothers. A significant relationship was found only between the increase in S.mutans in infants and the presence of erupted teeth. S.mutans and LB were able to colonize on the oral mucosal surfaces of edentulous newborns, with the counts of both bacteria increasing significantly with tooth eruption.

Comparative Evaluation of Biofilm Formation on Temporization Crown Materials Used in the Rehabilitation of Primary Dentition With Different Polishing Materials: An In Vitro Study.

Introduction Advancements in dental materials have enhanced aesthetic treatments for managing dental caries and injuries in primary dentition. Bis-acryl composite-based temporization materials are now preferred for restoring primary crowns due to their superior properties. However, prolonged exposure to dietary and hygienic factors can lead to discoloration and roughness, making efficient polishing essential to prevent plaque buildup. Objective This study aims to evaluate Streptococcus mutans biofilm formation on temporization material polished with different polishing systems. Methods This study tested bis-acryl methacrylate temporization material. Thirty disk-shaped specimens were prepared and divided into three groups according to the polishing system used (n = 10 per group): Shofu Super Snap mini kit (Shofu, San Marcos, CA), aluminum oxide polishing paste, and propol polishing paste. Each group's specimens were polished according to the manufacturer's instructions. Surface roughness (SR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) morphological analysis, and Streptococcus mutans biofilm formation were assessed for each group. Results The results showed significant differences in roughness average (Ra) values among the polishing materials, with the Shofu Super Snap mini kit having the highest roughness (Ra = 2.04), followed by propol polishing paste (Ra = 1.30)and aluminum oxide paste (Ra = 0.75). Additionally, polishing methods significantly affected mean colony-forming unit (CFU) levels, with the first group having the highest mean CFU value (0.24), with SEM images showing substantial biofilm formation by Streptococcus mutans. Conclusion Bacterial biofilm formation on the aluminum oxide paste group's surface differed from that on the propol polishing paste and aluminum oxide disc groups. The polishing techniques that we tested significantly influenced surface properties and biofilm formation. These findings suggest that selecting an appropriate polishing system can reduce the risk of gingival inflammation associated with temporization materials.

Comparison of the Antimicrobial Efficacy of Conventional Versus Chitosan Re-inforced Heat-Polymerized Polymethylmethacrylate Dental Material: An In Vitro Study.

Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) is widely used in the fabrication of dentures due to its aesthetic appeal and mechanical strength. However, PMMA's susceptibility to microbial colonization often leads to oral infections such as denture stomatitis. Enhancing the antimicrobial properties of denture materials is crucial for improving patient outcomes.Chitosan, a natural biopolymer, possesses inherent antimicrobial properties and could potentially enhance the microbial resistance of PMMA. This study has investigated thepotential of chitosan-reinforced heat-polymerized PMMA denture material to reduce microbial colonization. The aim of the study was to evaluate and assess the anti-bacterial and antifungal properties of chitosan-reinforced heat-polymerized PMMA with conventional heat-polymerized PMMA Materials and methods:Chitosan-reinforced PMMA samples were fabricated with varying chitosan concentrations (0% control, 5%, 10%, and 15% by weight). The fabrication involved mixing chitosan powder with PMMA powder, adding monomer liquid, followed by mixing, packing, and curing using the conventional heat polymerization technique. The antimicrobial efficacy was assessed in vitro using two common oral pathogens: Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans. Blood agar plates were used for S. mutans and Sabouraud agar plates were used for C. albicans. Each sample was placed on the respective agar plates inoculated with a standardized microbial suspension and incubated at 37°C for 24 hours. The number of colony-forming units (CFUs) was counted to quantify microbial growth. Statistical analyses, including linear regression analysis, one-way ANOVA test, and Pearson correlation were performed to evaluate the relationship between chitosan concentration and antimicrobial efficacy. The p-value was calculated to determine the statistical significance of the results. The chitosan-reinforced PMMA samples showed significantly greater antimicrobial efficacy compared to the conventional PMMA samples. The CFU counts for both S. mutans and C. albicans decreased with increasing chitosan concentration. Linear regression analysis indicated a strong negative correlation between chitosan concentration and CFU counts, with Pearson correlation coefficients of -0.97 for S. mutans and -0.98 for C. albicans. ANOVA analysis revealed a statistically significant difference in antimicrobial efficacy across different chitosan concentrations (p < 0.001). Incorporating chitosan into heat-polymerized PMMA significantly enhances its antimicrobial properties against S. mutans and C. albicans. The antimicrobial efficacy improves with higher concentrations of chitosan, with the 15% chitosan-reinforced samples showing the most substantial reduction in microbial growth. These results suggest that chitosan-reinforced PMMA dentures could be a superior alternative to conventional PMMA dentures, potentially reducing denture-related infections and improving oral health outcomes for denture wearers.

A bifunctional lactoferrin-derived amyloid coating prevents bacterial adhesion and occludes dentinal tubules via deep remineralization

Dentin hypersensitivity (DH) manifests as sharp and uncomfortable pain due to the exposure of dentinal tubules (DTs) following the erosion of tooth enamel. Desensitizing agents commonly used in clinical practice have limitations such as limited depth of penetration, slow remineralization and no antimicrobial properties. To alleviate these challenges, our study designed a lactoferrin-derived amyloid nanofilm (PTLF nanofilm) inspired by the saliva-acquired membrane (SAP). The nanofilm utilises Tris(2-carboxyethyl)phosphine (TCEP) to disrupt the disulfide bonds of lactoferrin (LF) under physiological conditions. The PTLF nanofilm modifies surfaces across various substrates and effectively prevents the early and stable adhesion of cariogenic bacteria, such as Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus acidophilus. Simultaneously, it adheres rapidly and securely to demineralized dentin surfaces, facilitating in-situ remineralization of HAP through a simple immersion process. This leads to the formation of a remineralized layer resembling natural dentin, with an occlusion depth of dentinal tubules exceeding 80 µm after three days. The in vivo and vitro results confirm that the PTLF nanofilm possesses good biocompatibility and its ability to exert simultaneous antimicrobial effects and dentin remineralization. Accordingly, this innovative bifunctional PTLF amyloid coating offers promising prospects for the management of DH-related conditions. Statement of significance1.We design a simple, fast, inexpensive, and easy-to-process PTLF nanofilm for nearly any material surface or shape.2.The PTLF nanofilm modifies surfaces across various substrates and effectively prevents the adhesion of cariogenic bacteria, such as Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus acidophilus.3.The abundant functional groups on the surface of PTLF nanofilm facilitate bioactive hydroxyapatite (HAP) formation and maintain stability at the HAP remineralization interface.

Comparative evaluation of cranberry extract and sodium fluoride as mouth rinses on S. mutans counts in children: a double-blind randomized controlled trial.

Recently, research in the field of caries prevention is emphasizing upon identification of edible non-toxic compounds that can interfere with the formation of cariogenic biofilm. This trial aimed to assess the effectiveness of non-dialyzable material (NDM) containing cranberry mouth rinse (C-MR) on the Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) counts and compare with that of a sodium fluoride (F-MR) mouth rinse. 280 children (8-12years old) were enrolled in this double-blind single center, parallel, one-month, IRB/IEC approved non-inferiority trial. The participants fulfilling the inclusion criteria were randomly allocated into one of the two groups: C-MR and F-MR. All participants were given verbal and written instructions about at-home mouth-rinsing regimen under parental supervision for a month. Dental plaque samples were collected before and after a month of mouth-rinsing and subjected to culture techniques. S. mutans counts were assessed and compared in both groups. Primary outcome was the difference in the S. mutans counts between two interventions. Both intention-to-treat (ITT) and per-protocol analysis were carried out using two-sample t test with equal variance. The mean S. mutans counts (after log transformation) in C-MR group were: 14.66 (90% CI 14.4,14.9) at baseline and 12.85 (90% CI 12.5, 13.2) colony-forming units/ml (CFU/ml) at one-month post intervention (p = 0.001); while these counts were 14.69 (90% CI 14.5, 14.9) at baseline and 12.71 (90% CI 12.3, 13.1) at one-month intervention in F-MR groups (p = 0.001). ITT analysis showed an inter- group difference of 0.14CFU/ml (90% CI -0.32,0.59) in post-SM counts between groups (p = 0.629). The study demonstrated that the cranberry mouth rinse was non-inferior to the fluoride mouth rinse in terms of S. mutans levels change. Cranberry-based mouth rinse can be used effectively to reduce the S. mutans counts in children. Registration number in case of Clinical Trials-CTRI/2019/05/019395.

UTILIZATION OF SOYBEAN POWDER AS AN ALTERNATIVE MEDIA FOR THE GROWTH OF ANAEROBIC BACTERIA

Background:Culture media or microbial growth media is a material consisting of a mixture of nutrients used by microorganisms for growth and reproduction. Anaerobic bacteria can thrive by requiring little or no oxygen for growth and metabolism. Purpose: The purpose to determine the potential of soybean powder as an alternative nitrogen source in Streptococcus mutans bacterial growth media and determine the optimum concentration of soybean powder in alternative media for Streptococcus mutans bacterial growth. Methods: The research method is a laboratory experiment to test soybean powder as an alternative medium for the growth of Streptococcus mutans bacteria using the Candle jar method. The population used is soybean powder with the brand soy flour, while the sample used is Streptococcus mutans bacteria. Results: The results obtained can be known that the average value of colony growth of Streptococcus mutans bacteria in alternative media of soybean powder with a concentration variation of 2 grams was 30 colonies, a concentration variation of 3 grams was 54 colonies, a concentration variation of 4 grams was 40 colonies, and a concentration variation of 5 grams was 72 colonies. From the average value, it can be seen that the growth of Streptococcus mutans on alternative media of soybean powder can grow well, but the most optimum growth is in the concentration variation of 5 grams. Conclusion:Based on the observations obtained, it shows that soybean powder (Glycine max (L.) Merr) can be used as an alternative medium for the growth of Streptococcus mutans bacteria.

ANTI-BACTERIAL EFFECTIVENESS OF CHITOSAN OF PAPUYU FISH (Anabas testudineus) AGAINST BACTERIA Streptococcus mutans

Background: Streptococcus mutans is one of the main bacteria that cause dental caries by demineralized hard tissues of the teeth. People can use natural ingredients to reduce the number of Streptococcus mutans microorganisms, that is chitosan papuyu fish scales (Anabas testudineus). Purpose: The purpose is to analyze the antibacterial effectiveness of chitosan from papuyu fish scales (Anabas testudineus) against Streptococcus mutans bacteria based on the values of the MIC (Minimum Inhibitory Concentration) and MBC (Minimum Bactericidal Concentration). Methods: This is an experimental study with posttest only with a control group design using 30 samples of chitosan papuyu fish scales (Anabas testudineus) grouped into 6 treatment groups and 5 samples repetitions. The treatment groups were chitosan papuyu fish scales (Anabas testudineus) with concentrations of 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%, 0.2% chlorhexidine as a positive control, and aquades as a negative control. Calculation of absorbance using a UV-VIS Spectrophotometer Biobase BK-D560 for MIC and Streptococcus mutans bacterial colonies were visualized with a colony counter for MBC. Results: The results of the Kruskal Wallis test for MIC and MBC of papuyu fish chitosan concentrations of 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% obtained significant results of p=0.00, which means p&lt;0, 05 and showed a significant difference between treatments. Conclusion: There are differences in the effectiveness of MIC and MBC chitosan of papuyu fish scales (Anabas testudineus) at concentrations of 25%, 50%, 75%, 100%, chlorhexidine gluconate 0.2% (positive control), and aquadest (negative control).

Green synthesis of gold nanoparticles using Pelargonium Graveolens leaf extract: characterization and anti-microbial properties (An in-vitro study)

Background In recent years, there has been a notable increase in the level of attention devoted to exploring capabilities of nanoparticles, specifically gold nanoparticles AuNPs, within context of modern times. AuNPs possess distinct biophysical properties, as a novel avenue as an antibacterial agent targeting Streptococcus Mutans and Candida Albicans. The aim of this study to create a nano-platform that has the potential to be environmentally sustainable, in addition to exhibiting exceptional antimicrobial properties against Streptococcus Mutans as well as Candida Albicans. Methods this study involved utilization of Pelargonium Graveolens leaves extract as a cost effective and environmentally sustainable approach for the green synthesis of AuNPs. Subsequently, physicochemical characteristics were assessed employing a variety of analytical methods, including as transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope, Zeta potential, Ultraviolet visible absorption spectroscopy, and Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The antimicrobial efficacy against Streptococcus Mutans and Candida Albicans was evaluated. Nanoparticles of various shapes, including hexagonal, spherical, semi-spherical, and triangular, were synthesized. These nanoparticles exhibited a mean particle size of 294nm and demonstrated low degree of aggregation. These nanoparticles exhibited long-term stability and were capable of facilely combining with diverse bioactive compounds. Results The study demonstrated that AuNPs which is synthesized by green methods display potent antimicrobial properties. Conclusion Utilization of Pelargonium Graveolens AuNPs may exhibit a promising potential as an antibacterial agent against Streptococcus Mutans and Candida Albicans. Nanoparticles (NPs) have the potential to serve as a novel approach for addressing pathogen infections as well as for biomedical, dental and pharmaceutical purposes in the future.

Inhibitory Effects of Surface Pre-Reacted Glass Ionomer Filler Eluate on Streptococcus mutans in the Presence of Sucrose.

The surface pre-reacted glass ionomer (S-PRG) filler is a type of bioactive functional glass that releases six different ions. This study examined the effects of the S-PRG filler eluate on Streptococcus mutans in the presence of sucrose. In a solution containing S. mutans, the concentrations of BO33-, Al3+, Sr2+, and F- were significantly higher in the presence of the S-PRG filler eluate than in its absence (p < 0.001). The concentrations of these ions further increased in the presence of sucrose. Additionally, the S-PRG filler eluate significantly reduced glucan formation by S. mutans (p < 0.001) and significantly increased the pH of the bacterial suspension (p < 0.001). Bioinformatic analyses revealed that the S-PRG filler eluate downregulated genes involved in purine biosynthesis (purC, purF, purL, purM, and purN) and upregulated genes involved in osmotic pressure (opuAa and opuAb). At a low pH (5.0), the S-PRG filler eluate completely inhibited the growth of S. mutans in the presence of sucrose and significantly increased the osmotic pressure of the bacterial suspension compared with the control (p < 0.001). These findings suggest that ions released from the S-PRG filler induce gene expression changes and exert an inhibitory effect on S. mutans in the presence of sucrose.

Long-term hybrid stability and matrix metalloproteinase inhibition by fucosterol in resin-dentin bonding biomechanics

Fucosterols have been widely studied for their antioxidant, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory properties. However, they have not yet been studied in the field of dentistry. This study aimed to determine whether pretreatment of dentin with fucosterol before resin restoration enhances bond stability in resin-dentin hybrid layers. After applying 0.1, 0.5, and 1.0 wt% fucosterol to demineralized dentin, microtensile bond strength (MTBS) and nanoleakage tests were performed before and after collagenase aging, and the surface was observed using scanning electron microscope (SEM). The fucosterol-treated group showed better bond strength and less nanoleakage both before and after collagenase aging, and the corresponding structures were confirmed using SEM. MMP zymography confirmed that the activity of MMPs was relatively low along the concentration gradient of fucosterol, and the FTIR analysis confirmed the production of collagen crosslinks. In addition, fucosterol exhibits cytotoxicity against Streptococcus mutans, the main cause of dental decay. The results of this study suggest that fucosterol pretreatment improves bond strength and reduces nanoleakage at the resin-dentin interface, possibly through a mechanism involving collagen cross-link formation via the inhibition of endogenous and exogenous MMP activity. This study demonstrates the potential of fucosterol as an MMP inhibitor in dentin, which contributes to long-term resin-dentin bond stability and can be used as a restorative material.