Nanoparticles for Oral Biofilm Treatments

ACS Nano. 2019 May 28;13(5):4869-4875. doi: 10.1021/acsnano.9b02816. Epub 2019 Apr 29.

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.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / pharmacology
  • Biofilms* / drug effects
  • Catalysis
  • Humans
  • Mouth / microbiology*
  • Nanoparticles / chemistry*

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents