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Interaction between xylitol and sorbitol in plaque metabolism
Swedish Dental Journal
|January 1, 1984
Summary
Xylitol and sorbitol metabolism in oral microorganisms involves phosphotransferase systems. Xylitol can reduce plaque and inhibit acid production from sorbitol, likely due to xylitol-5-phosphate toxicity and competitive inhibition.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Biochemistry
- Oral Health
Background:
- Xylitol and sorbitol are sugar alcohols metabolized by microorganisms.
- Their metabolism involves cell membrane transport and phosphorylation via phosphotransferase systems.
- Xylitol metabolism pathways are not fully understood, and xylitol-5-phosphate may be toxic.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the interaction between xylitol and sorbitol metabolism in oral microorganisms.
- To explore the mechanisms behind xylitol's effects on plaque formation and acid production.
Main Methods:
- Investigated microbial metabolism of xylitol and sorbitol.
- Examined the role of phosphotransferase systems in xylitol uptake.
- Analyzed acid production from sorbitol in the presence of xylitol.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated a phosphotransferase system for xylitol in Strep. mutans, potentially leading to xylitol-5-phosphate accumulation.
- Observed that xylitol reduces plaque formation and microbial count.
- Found that xylitol inhibits acid production from sorbitol in chewing gum.
Conclusions:
- Xylitol's effects are attributed to the toxic impact of xylitol-5-phosphate and competitive inhibition of the phosphotransferase system.
- Xylitol can be a beneficial agent in oral hygiene by reducing plaque and microbial acid production.