The role of divalent ions in cariogenic biofilm formation
<p>The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of calcium, magnesium, and zinc on cariogenic biofilm formation and their interaction with bacterial EPS. This was evaluated using two <em>S. mutans</em> strains and different carbohydrates (glucose, sucrose and fructose).</p> <p>Different combinations of carbohydrates and ions were investigated for their effect on the biofilm formation on hydroxyapatite disks by confocal laser scanning microscopy. Moreover, exopolysaccharides were purified and their affinity to the ions was measured by isothermal titration calorimetry.</p> <p>The biofilm formation of <em>S. mutans </em>clinical isolate was almost eliminated in the presence of Zn<sup>2+</sup> and promoted by Ca<sup>2+</sup>, while adhesion seems to be more inhibited by Ca<sup>2+</sup> and Mg<sup>2+</sup> for <em>S. mutans</em> type strain. The EPS of cilincal isolate had a higher binding affinity towards calcium and magnesium than the type strain.</p> <p>There seems to be a fine balance between these ions that needs to be maintained as excessive concentrations of one or another destroy the balance between the three.</p>