Development and evaluation of a chewing gum containing antimicrobial peptide GH12 for caries prevention

The purpose of this study was to develop a chewing gum containing a novel antimicrobial peptide GH12 and evaluate its biocompatibility, antimicrobial activity, and caries-preventive effects in vivo and in vitro. GH12 chewing gum was developed using a conventional method and its extracts were prepared in artificial saliva. GH12 concentration in the extracts was determined by high-performance liquid chromatography; extracts were used for growth curve assay, time-kill assay, crystal violet staining assay, scanning electron microscopy, and Cell Counting Kit-8 assay. A rat caries model was established, and molars were treated topically with extracts for 5 weeks. Weight gain monitoring, hematoxylin-eosin staining, micro-computed tomography, and Keyes scoring were conducted. Significant inhibition of Streptococcus mutans growth and biofilm formation was observed. Extracts displayed low cytotoxicity against human gingival epithelial cells. No significant differences in weight gain or signs of harm to the mucosal tissues in any of the rats were observed. Keyes scores of caries lesions in the GH12 chewing gum group were lower than those of the negative control group. It was concluded that GH12 chewing gum showed good biocompatibility, antimicrobial activity, and caries-preventive effects, exhibiting great potential to prevent dental caries as an adjuvant to regular oral hygiene.