In vitro inhibition of Streptococcus mutans biofilm formation on hydroxyapatite by subinhibitory concentrations of anthraquinones

Antimicrob Agents Chemother. 2007 Apr;51(4):1541-4. doi: 10.1128/AAC.00999-06. Epub 2007 Jan 12.

Abstract

We report that certain anthraquinones (AQs) reduce Streptococcus mutans biofilm formation on hydroxyapatite at concentrations below the MIC. Although AQs are known to generate reactive oxygen species, the latter do not underlie the observed effect. Our results suggest that AQs inhibit S. mutans biofilm formation by causing membrane perturbation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Anthraquinones / pharmacology*
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / pharmacology*
  • Biofilms / drug effects*
  • Biofilms / growth & development
  • Durapatite / metabolism
  • Microbial Sensitivity Tests
  • Streptococcus mutans / drug effects*
  • Streptococcus mutans / growth & development
  • Streptococcus mutans / metabolism

Substances

  • Anthraquinones
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Durapatite