IADR Abstract Archives
Anticariogenicity of Fatty Acids in an Experimental Caries-Biofilm Model
Objectives: A protective effect of dietary unsaturated fatty acids has been reported, as they would induce a decrease in the cariogenicity of Streptococcus mutans biofilms and inhibition of enamel demineralization. However, the effect of other fatty acids or the combination of the already tested stearic, oleic, linoleic in a matrix with surfactant is unclear. Therefore, the aim was to test the anti-cariogenic potential of emulsified fatty acids in a biological model of caries, in vitro.
Methods: Enamel slabs were used to grow S. mutans biofilms. Once mature, biofilms were exposed 3 times per day to 10% sucrose for 5 minutes and then to a panel of different fatty acids or to combinations, at a final 10mM concentration and dissolved with tween 80. Positive and negative controls were included. Spent media were used to measure pH twice per day, after each exposure to fatty acids. After 5 days, biofilms were evaluated for biomass, viable microorganisms and the slabs were assessed for the percentage of surface hardness loss to estimate demineralization. Three independent experiments, each in triplicate, were carried out (n = 9). Outcomes were compared among the fatty acid groups using ANOVA and Tukey with a significance level of 95%.
Results: Biofilms exposed to 18-carbon fatty acids with surfactant agent induced a reduction in the demineralization of enamel and viable microorganisms when compared to a cariogenic control (p <0.05). Palmitic acid and the mixtures failed to show a reduction in demineralization. No statistically significant differences in acidogenicity and biomass were observed across the experimental fatty acids or their combinations (p> 0.05).
Conclusions: In conclusion, a potential anti-caries effect for the 18-carbon fatty acids, either saturated or unsaturated is confirmed. Unlike previous reports, emulsified stearic acid also has a potential anticariogenic properties. Further research is strongly advised. Funding: Fondecyt 1140623 to RAG.
Methods: Enamel slabs were used to grow S. mutans biofilms. Once mature, biofilms were exposed 3 times per day to 10% sucrose for 5 minutes and then to a panel of different fatty acids or to combinations, at a final 10mM concentration and dissolved with tween 80. Positive and negative controls were included. Spent media were used to measure pH twice per day, after each exposure to fatty acids. After 5 days, biofilms were evaluated for biomass, viable microorganisms and the slabs were assessed for the percentage of surface hardness loss to estimate demineralization. Three independent experiments, each in triplicate, were carried out (n = 9). Outcomes were compared among the fatty acid groups using ANOVA and Tukey with a significance level of 95%.
Results: Biofilms exposed to 18-carbon fatty acids with surfactant agent induced a reduction in the demineralization of enamel and viable microorganisms when compared to a cariogenic control (p <0.05). Palmitic acid and the mixtures failed to show a reduction in demineralization. No statistically significant differences in acidogenicity and biomass were observed across the experimental fatty acids or their combinations (p> 0.05).
Conclusions: In conclusion, a potential anti-caries effect for the 18-carbon fatty acids, either saturated or unsaturated is confirmed. Unlike previous reports, emulsified stearic acid also has a potential anticariogenic properties. Further research is strongly advised. Funding: Fondecyt 1140623 to RAG.