In vitro Investigation of the Antimicrobial Activity of Mouth Washes Incorporating Zein-Coated Magnesium Oxide Nanoparticles

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Microbiology
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Oral microorganisms contribute to various dental issues.
• Developing novel antimicrobial agents for oral hygiene is crucial.
• Nanoparticles offer unique properties for antimicrobial applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the antimicrobial efficacy of zein-coated magnesium oxide (MgO) nanoparticles in oral mouthwashes.
• To evaluate the impact of MgO nanoparticles on common oral microorganisms.
• To assess the potential of these nanoparticles as additives in commercial mouthwash formulations.

Main Methods:

• In vitro study involving five concentrations of MgO nanoparticles (with and without zein coating).
• Incorporation of nanoparticles into three distinct mouthwash brands (Listerine zero, Listerine total control, Oral B).
• Antimicrobial activity assessed using disc diffusion test (DDT) and direct contact test (DCT) against *Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus mutans, Enterococcus faecalis*, and *Candida albicans*.

Main Results:

• Zein-coated MgO nanoparticles demonstrated significant antimicrobial activity against all tested microorganisms in the disc diffusion test.
• All tested mouthwashes containing MgO nanoparticles (both zein-coated and uncoated) exhibited antimicrobial effects in the direct contact test.
• Variable concentrations of MgO nanoparticles influenced the observed antimicrobial activity.

Conclusions:

• Zein-coated MgO nanoparticles show promise as antimicrobial agents for oral mouthwashes.
• The addition of zein/MgO nanoparticles may enhance the antibacterial properties of oral rinses.
• Further in vivo research is recommended to validate these findings and explore clinical applications.