Work

Nanoparticles for Oral Biofilm Treatments

Year: 2019

Type: review

Abstract: Pathogenic oral biofilms are universal, chronic, and costly. Despite advances in understanding the mechanisms of biofilm formation and persistence, novel and effective treatment options remain scarce. Nanoparticle-mediated eradication of the biofilm matrix and resident bacteria holds great potential. In particular, nanoparticles that target specific microbial and biofilm features utilizing nontoxic materials are well-suited for clinical translation. However, much work remains to characterize the local and systemic effects of therapeutic agents that are topically applied to chronic biofilms, such as those that cause dental caries. In this Perspective, we summarize the pathogenesis of oral biofilms, describe current and future nanoparticle-mediated treatment approaches, and highlight outstanding questions that are paramount to answer for effectively targeting and treating oral biofilms.

Source: ACS Nano

DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.9b02816

Authors: Danielle S. W. Benoit, Kenneth R. Sims, David Fraser

Institutions: University of Rochester Medicine, University of Rochester

Language: English

Topic: Oral microbiology and periodontitis research

Subfield: Periodontics

Field: Dentistry

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funders: National Science Foundation, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, Division of Materials Research