Alkylamine salts and amides: in vitro inhibition of S mutans 6715

Our studies with the salts and amides of alkylamines have shown that the undecylenate salts have significant in vitro activity against S mutans No 6715, suggesting that these agents are worthy of additional evaluation. The attempt to increase activity by combining undecylenic acid with the alkylamines was not successful; however, better attachment to tooth surfaces and/or retention during washing did occur. Our results suggest that the free amino group of alkylamines and the free acid group of undecylenic acid are required for these two classes of agents to demonstrate antibacterial activity.