Nanotechnology: role in dental biofilms.
Biofilms are surface-adherent populations of microorganisms consisting of cells, water and extracellular matrix material Nanotechnology is promising field of science which can guide our understanding of the role of interspecies interaction in the development of biofilm. Streptococcus mutans with other species of bacteria has been known to form dental biofilm. The correlation between genetically modified bacteria Streptococcus mutans and nanoscale morphology has been assessed using AFMi.e atomic force microscopy. Nanotechnology application includes 16O/18O reverse proteolytic labeling,use of quantum dots for labeling of bacterial cells, selective removal of cariogenic bacteria while preserving the normal oral flora and silver antimicrobial nanotechnology against pathogens associated with biofilms. The future comprises a mouthwash full of smart nanomachines which can allow the harmless flora of mouth to flourish in a healthy ecosystem.
Department of Microbiology, Dr. H.S.J Institute of Dental Sciences and Hospital, Punjab University, Chandigarh, India.
Sonia B
SB
Bhardwaj
Manjula
M
Mehta
K
K
Gauba
D018441:Biofilms; D003741:Dental Deposits / Q000382:microbiology*; D006801:Humans; D049329:Nanostructures / Q000627:therapeutic use; D036103:Nanotechnology / Q000639:trends*; D016966:Porphyromonas gingivalis / Q000502:physiology; D045663:Quantum Dots; D012834:Silver / Q000627:therapeutic use; D013295:Streptococcus mutans / Q000502:physiology
D012834:Silver