Novel Antibacterial Material Systems for Topical Application to Inhibit Pathogenic Biofilm Growth on Exposed Tooth Surfaces

Project Investigators:

Prof. Dr. med. dent. Kerstin Bitter
MLU, Conservative Dentistry and Periodontology

Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Karsten Mäder
MLU, Pharmaceutical Technology

Dr.-Ing. Andreas Kiesow
IMWS, Characterization of Medical and Cosmetic Care Products

Associated Partners:
Prof. Dr. Matthias Hartlieb
UP, Polymeric Biomaterials

Prof. Dr. Andreas Taubert
UP, Supramolecular and Materials Chemistry

Summary:
Our aim is to impact oral health in improving prevention and progression of root caries and periodontal therapy by means of targeted influencing of interfaces. We will develop antibacterial formulations based on drug delivery systems releasing cationic antimicrobial polymers targeting the deeper areas of the periodontal pocket as well as the carious affected root dentin to combat periodontal and cariogenic pathogens and promote tooth remineralization. The substances to be integrated are polymeric structures able to selectively target and destroy the bacterial cell membrane. To serve the purpose of remineralization, polymers will be equipped with fluoride counterions. Application strategies will be evaluated with respect to retention times at the interface to root dentin as well as to the interface of the periodontal pocket.