Maple polyphenols inhibit sortase and drastically reduce Streptococcus mutans biofilms.

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Microbiology
• Dental Research

Background:

• Dental caries is caused by Streptococcus mutans adherence and biofilm formation.
• Sortase A (SrtA) is crucial for anchoring adhesins in S. mutans, making it a target for preventing plaque.
• Edible polyphenols from maple extracts have shown SrtA inhibitory and antibiofilm properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of maple polyphenols, including (-)-epicatechin gallate (ECG), against S. mutans SrtA.
• To evaluate the antibiofilm activity of these compounds on tooth-mimicking surfaces.
• To assess the potential of these natural compounds as agents for dental caries prevention.

Main Methods:

• In silico modeling was used to assess the binding of maple polyphenols and EGCG to S. mutans SrtA.
• In vitro assays measured sortase activity inhibition and S. mutans attachment to hydroxyapatite discs and acrylic teeth.
• Antibiofilm activity was quantified for tested compounds, with a focus on ECG.

Main Results:

• Maple polyphenols and EGCG demonstrated favorable binding to S. mutans SrtA via in silico analysis.
• These compounds effectively inhibited sortase activity in vitro and reduced bacterial attachment to tooth-like surfaces.
• ECG exhibited the strongest antibiofilm activity at 100 µM, outperforming EGCG and showing strain independence.

Conclusions:

• Maple-derived polyphenols, particularly ECG, are effective inhibitors of S. mutans SrtA and possess significant antibiofilm properties.
• Aqueous maple extracts or ECG represent a safe, cost-effective, and natural strategy for preventing dental caries.
• ECG's efficacy, safety, and abundance make it a promising ingredient for oral hygiene products, especially for children.