Bioprospecting and Exploration of Phytochemicals as Quorum Sensing Inhibitors against Cariogenic Dental Biofilm

Abstract

Dental caries is a polymicrobial infection affecting the dental hard tissues. Excessive carbohydrate intake leads to the accumulation of acid-producing and acid-resistant microorganisms in the oral region. It is a biofilm-dependent oral infection with cariogenic pathogens and the most prevalent disease globally. The prevention and control of caries play a vital role in global health management. Periodontal diseases and subgingival plaque etiology are due to the combined action of bacterial invasion and immune reaction, resulting in the devastation of periodontal tissues, culminating in tooth loss. The compact micro colony inhabiting the dental surfaces attaches with secreted polymer, forming a biofilm. Bacterial biofilm impervious to various drugs and chemicals poses a significant challenge in therapeutic scenarios of medical and odonatological infections. The quorum-sensing signaling mechanism in bacteria controls the metabolic and physiologic properties involved in bacterial existence, pathogenesis, and virulence. Hence, studies monitoring the molecular mechanism of quorum sensing and their restricted social interactions will be highly beneficial in the treatment regimen of the modern era. Natural bioactive compounds can be exploited for their medicinal value in combating oro-dental infections. Phytochemicals are promising candidates that could provide novel strategies for fighting infections. The current review highlights the mechanism of quorum sensing, plant products’ effect in controlling quorum sensing, and biofilm-induced dental infections like Periodontitis.

Keywords

• phytochemicals
• flavanoids
• biofilm
• quorum sensing and quorum quenching