Effect of Resveratrol on Streptococcus Mutans Biofilms

Objectives: Caries is the demineralization of the hard tissues of teeth by lactic acid producing biofilms in the oral cavity. Streptococcus mutans has been identified as one of the primary bacterial species involved in carious processes. It has been shown that Resveratrol, a plant derived polyphenol, inhibits biofilms in a range of bacterial growth studies. In one particular study, Resveratrol inhibited quorum sensing in Psuedomonas aureginosa biofilms. In numerous reports Resveratrol was shown to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, along with low cytotoxicity. The aim of the study is to ascertain Resveratrol's effect on S. mutans biofilms using a bacteriological cell culture biofilm model.
Methods: Planktonic S. mutans were inoculated into Brain-Heart Infusion bacteriological media in 96 well plates. Cell cultures were then incubated without or with Resveratrol at 25, 50, 100, and 200 µg/ml concentrations. Additional control cultures contained 0.243% NaF or 1% ethanol. After 24h and 48h at 37^oC in 5% CO₂ planktonic bacteria were discarded and biofilms were stained with crystal violet. Stained biofilm levels were assessed spectrophotometrically. Data were evaluated using the Student’s t Test.
Results: Resveratrol was found here to significantly inhibit levels of S. mutans biofilm formation compared to control groups without resveratrol, including those with 1% ethanol (vehicle control).
Conclusions: Given its effect on reducing S. mutans biofilms Resveratrol could potentially be incorporated in topical oral hygiene regimens.