Oral plaque biofilm matrix (EPS matrix)

The oral plaque biofilm matrix is a complex, three-dimensional scaffold composed of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) such as polysaccharides, proteins, lipids, and extracellular DNA (eDNA). Produced by resident microorganisms, this matrix provides structural integrity to the dental plaque and serves as a protective barrier against environmental stressors, host immune responses, and antimicrobial agents [1][2]. It facilitates the adhesion of bacteria to the tooth surface and creates microenvironments that sequester metabolic acids, directly contributing to the demineralization of enamel and the development of dental caries [3]. Therapeutically, the matrix is targeted by agents that either degrade its components, such as glucan-hydrolases, or inhibit the enzymes responsible for its synthesis, like glucosyltransferases [4]. Modern strategies also focus on using nanoparticles or pH-responsive carriers to penetrate the matrix and deliver antimicrobial payloads directly to the embedded pathogens [5].

Other names

Dental plaque matrixExtracellular polymeric substance matrixOral biofilm matrixDental biofilm EPSCariogenic biofilm matrix

Inhibition of extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) synthesis by targeting microbial enzymes like glucosyltransferases, enzymatic degradation of existing matrix polysaccharides (glucans and mutans), and physical disruption of the scaffold to increase the permeability of the biofilm to antimicrobial agents [3][4].