Oral bacterial cell surface and biofilm matrix

The oral bacterial cell surface and biofilm matrix represent a complex, multi-species microbial community, commonly referred to as dental plaque, which adheres to oral surfaces (Marsh & Moter, 2015). This structure is composed of bacterial cells and a self-produced extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) matrix containing polysaccharides, proteins, and extracellular DNA (Flemming & Wingender, 2010). The cell surfaces feature various adhesins that facilitate attachment to the salivary pellicle and promote co-aggregation between different bacterial species (Bowden, 2000). Functionally, the biofilm matrix serves as a protective barrier that shields microorganisms from the host immune system and increases their tolerance to antimicrobial agents (NIDCR, 2023). Pathological shifts in the composition of this biofilm are primary drivers of dental caries and periodontal diseases (NIH, 2022). Therapeutic agents, such as chlorhexidine and fluoride, interact with this target by disrupting cell membranes or inhibiting the metabolic pathways required for matrix production (StatPearls, 2023). Current drug development efforts focus on disrupting the structural integrity of the matrix to enhance the efficacy of existing treatments.

Other names

Dental plaqueOral biofilmExtracellular polymeric substance matrixDental biofilm matrixOral microbiome structure

Drugs targeting this structure act by disrupting bacterial cell membrane integrity, inhibiting the synthesis of extracellular polysaccharides, or enzymatically degrading the biofilm matrix to facilitate antimicrobial penetration (StatPearls, 2023; PubMed, 2021).