Heterogeneous glycopeptides from gastric mucin inhibit dental decay in rats a pilot study

ABSTRACT The aim of this pilot study was to investigate whether the application of sufficient amounts of soluble adhesin receptor analogues in the oral cavity could effectively inhibit the lectin mediated binding of Strep. mutans, and consequently the development of dental caries in vivo. Germ free rats were orally infected with Strep. mutans and were fed a high cariogenic diet. The control-group was given sterilized tap water. The test group received a sterilized solution of hydrolyzed gastric mucin. The test group developed significantly less carious lesions on approximal surfaces. Our data revealed that a continuous supplementation of glycopeptides from gastic mucins via drinking water is a potential inhibitor of dental decay in gnotobiotic rats.</jats:p