Biosurfactants: promising bioactive molecules for oral-related health applications.
Biosurfactants are naturally produced molecules that demonstrate potentially useful properties such as the ability to reduce surface tensions between different phases. Besides having similar properties to their artificial chemical counterparts, they are regarded as environmental friendly, biodegradable and less toxic, which make them desirable candidates for downstream applications. The structure-activity-related properties of the biosurfactants which are directly correlated with potency of the biosurfactants as antimicrobial agents, the ability of the biosurfactants to alter surface energies and their ability to increase bioavailability are particularly what attract researchers to exploit their potential use in the oral-related health applications. Current research into biosurfactant indicates significant future potential for use in cosmetic and therapeutic oral hygiene product formulations and related medical device treatments.
School of Biomedical Sciences, Ulster University, Cromore Road, Coleraine County Londonderry BT52 1SA, Northern Ireland, UK.
Mohamed
M
Elshikh
School of Biomedical Sciences, Ulster University, Cromore Road, Coleraine County Londonderry BT52 1SA, Northern Ireland, UK.
Roger
R
Marchant
School of Biomedical Sciences, Ulster University, Cromore Road, Coleraine County Londonderry BT52 1SA, Northern Ireland, UK IM.Banat@ulster.ac.uk.
Ibrahim M
IM
Banat
bioactive molecules; biosurfactant; dental plaque; medical devices; oral formulation; oral hygiene