| Abstract [eng] |
Streptococcus mutans is a commensal species of bacteria found in human oral biofilms that continuously form on the surface of the teeth, gums and tongue. S. mutans is often identified as the causative agent of primary and recurrent dental caries, so the problem of inhibition of cariogenic films is relevant throughout a person's life. Unfortunately, despite the abundant supply of preventive measures, dental caries still remains one of the most common diseases in the world. Besides, as the increasing resistance of S. mutans to the chemical substances commonly used in clinical practice has recently been observed, and their frequent use has a negative effect on the oral microbiome and often has side effects, there is a search for antimicrobial substances that selectively inhibit the formation of cariogenic films. Plants and their fruits are rich in phytochemicals such as polyphenols – gallic acid and its derivatives, which have many beneficial properties. The present work introduces the established inhibitory effect of gallic acid esters – methyl, ethyl, octyl and lauryl gallates – on the formation of S. mutans biofilm on rigid surfaces (polystyrene, glass) in vitro, the strength of which depends on the length of the structural alkyl chain. |
