Effects of epigallocatechin gallate on the development of matrix-rich Streptococcus mutans biofilm.

Abstract

In this study, we evaluated the impact of Epigalocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) on S. mutans biofilm development for 24 and 46 h using high-resolution confocal laser scanning microscopy. EGCG treatment led to the formation of interspaced exopolysaccharide (EPS)-microcolony complexes unevenly distributed on the surface of hydroxyapatite disc, forming a thinner and less complex biofilm structure with significantly reduced biomass, matrix volume, and thickness compared to the NaCl treated group (negative control). At 46 h, the biofilm of the EGCG-treatment group failed to form the bacterial-EPS superstructures which is characteristic of the biofilm in the negative control group. EGCG treatment seems to significantly delay biofilm development, with the 46 h biofilm in the EGCG treatment group resembling the negative control group at 24 h. EGCG topical treatments impaired S. mutans biofilm initial growth and maturation, suggesting its potential to be used as a preventive agent against dental caries.