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In vitro biofilm models to study dental caries: a systematic review
T T Maske1,2, F H van de Sande3, R A Arthur4
1a Graduate Program in Dentistry , Federal University of Pelotas , Pelotas-RS , Brazil.
Biofouling
|August 10, 2017
Summary
This review highlights that while various in vitro biofilm models exist for dental caries research, most lack crucial validation for reproducibility and dose-response, impacting the reliability of anti-caries substance testing.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Dental Research
- Biomaterials Science
Background:
- In vitro biofilm models are essential tools for studying dental caries pathogenesis and evaluating therapeutic agents.
- Standardization and validation of these models are critical for reliable and reproducible research outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and characterize in vitro biofilm models used in caries-related research.
- To assess the reproducibility and dose-response validation of these models, particularly concerning anti-caries and antimicrobial agents.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of in vitro biofilm models meeting specific inclusion criteria for caries research (Part I) and substance testing (Part II).
- Categorization of models into dynamic and batch types, and assessment of reported dose-response and reproducibility data.
- Evaluation of the risk of bias in the included studies.
Main Results:
- Dynamic biofilm models were predominantly used in both parts of the review (72.9% in PI, 75.5% in PII).
- A significant proportion of studies lacked reported dose-response (20.4%) and reproducibility (14.3%) validations.
- Over a third of the studies (32.7%) were classified as having a high risk of bias.
Conclusions:
- While diverse in vitro biofilm models are available for caries research, most require further validation.
- Lack of standardized dose-response and reproducibility data hinders the reliability of current in vitro caries research and the evaluation of anti-caries agents.
