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Understanding the Basis of METH Mouth Using a Rodent Model of Methamphetamine Injection, Sugar Consumption, and
Hiu Ham Lee1, Preethi Sudhakara2, Shreena Desai1,3
1Department of Biomedical Sciences, NYIT College of Osteopathic Medicine, New York Institute of Technology, Old Westbury, New York, USA.
Mbio
|March 10, 2021
Summary
Methamphetamine (METH) use combined with sugar intake significantly increases Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) colonization and biofilm formation on teeth. Chlorhexidine treatment and human saliva can reduce this bacterial colonization, offering potential therapeutic strategies for METH mouth.
Area of Science:
- Oral microbiology
- Pharmacology
- Dental research
Background:
- "METH mouth" is severe tooth decay linked to methamphetamine (METH) use, exacerbated by dry mouth, poor hygiene, and high sugar intake.
- Methamphetamine use leads to reduced saliva, promoting bacterial growth and tooth decay.
- Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) is a key bacterium associated with dental caries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of METH and sugar on S. mutans colonization and biofilm formation in a murine model.
- To explore potential preventive strategies for METH mouth.
Main Methods:
- Developed a murine model combining METH administration, sucrose intake, and S. mutans infection.
- Assessed S. mutans adhesion, growth, and biofilm formation in vivo.
- Evaluated the efficacy of chlorhexidine treatment and human saliva against S. mutans colonization.
Main Results:
- METH and sucrose synergistically increased S. mutans tooth adhesion, growth, and biofilm formation.
- METH and sucrose enhanced S. mutans glycosyltransferase expression and lactic acid production.
- Chlorhexidine oral rinse and human saliva significantly reduced S. mutans colonization and biofilm formation.
Conclusions:
- METH use, particularly with high sugar intake, creates an environment conducive to S. mutans-driven tooth decay.
- Chlorhexidine and saliva show promise in mitigating METH mouth-associated dental issues.
- Findings support public health strategies for dental care in METH users.
