Antimicrobial Efficacy of Silver-based Formulations against Fusobacterium nucleatum: A Mini-scoping Review

Fusobacterium nucleatum is a critical periodontal pathogen implicated in biofilm maturation and inflammation in periodontitis. With growing concerns over antibiotic resistance, silver-based antimicrobial agents are emerging as promising alternatives. This minireview aims to evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy and biocompatibility of various silver formulations, including silver nitrate (AgNO₃), silver diamine fluoride, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), and glutathione-stabilized AgNPs (GSH-silver), specifically against F. nucleatum. A systematic literature search (1990-2024) across PubMed, EMBASE, EBSCOhost, and Google Scholar identified five in vitro studies. Key outcome measures included minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), cytotoxicity, and proinflammatory responses. All formulations demonstrated significant antimicrobial efficacy, with 5 nm AgNPs showing the most potent effect (MIC = 25 µg/mL). Silver(I) carbohydrate complexes and GSH-silver showed enhanced efficacy and reduced cytotoxicity. However, elevated proinflammatory cytokine release was noted with some formulations. Silver-based formulations exhibit potent antimicrobial activity against F. nucleatum, but their inflammatory potential and cytotoxicity warrant further investigation. Future in vivo studies are needed to optimize dosing, assess tissue interactions, and validate the clinical safety of these silver-based formulations.