Bifunctional anticaries peptides with antibacterial and remineralizing effects

Initial dental caries often occurs in clinic. Reduction of cariogenic bacteria and promotion of remineralization are effective ways to control them. This study was to develop bifunctional anticaries peptides with antibacterial and remineralizing properties.

We designed peptides TDH19, TNH19, and TVH19 and selected one through comparing their minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and minimal bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) against Streptococcus mutans and their reaction on mineralization. Then the bifunction of the selected peptide was studied through: (a) effects on S. mutans biofilm, (b) remineralizing effects on initial lesions and (c) stability in saliva and cytocompatibility to human oral keratinocytes (HOKs).

TVH19 showed the lowest MIC and MBC and a better mineralizing ability. It inhibited new biofilm formation and reduced the viability of old biofilm (p < 0.05). Treating initial caries with TVH19 led to greater recovery of surface microhardness, shallower lesion depth, and higher mineral content (p < 0.05). No significant differences were observed between TVH19 and NaF samples (p > 0.05). TVH19 was stable in saliva and had little effect on HOKs.

The novel bifunctional anticaries peptide TVH19 was developed with remarkable antibacterial activity and the potential to enhance remineralization of initial caries.