https://video.igem.org/videos/watch/d7d45bd1-b4b4-47d4-8fcf-abc80358f34e Title: Unlocking the Code of Oral Caries Prevention: An Innovative Enzymatic Strategy Targeting Dental Plaque Biofilms Description: Dental plaque is a structured biofilm that plays a central role in the development of dental caries and periodontal disease. Its extracellular polymeric matrix, especially the glucan network produced by cariogenic bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans, acts as a protective barrier that promotes bacterial adhesion and limits the effectiveness of conventional oral-cleaning and antimicrobial approaches. Existing enzyme-based products commonly rely on a single dextranase, which mainly targets α-1,6-linked glucans and may not sufficiently disrupt the complex plaque-biofilm structure. Our project proposes a multi-enzyme strategy to dismantle dental plaque biofilms in a targeted and synergistic manner. We combine α-1,3-glucanase (mutanase), α-1,6-glucanase (dextranase), Dispersin B, and lysozyme to degrade key matrix components and subsequently expose and suppress embedded bacteria. We will first characterize each enzyme individually, then construct fusion proteins and engineered lactic acid bacteria capable of secreting complementary enzyme modules. Using S. mutans biofilm models, crystal-violet staining, enzymatic assays, and microscopic observation, we aim to evaluate both the prevention of biofilm formation and the removal of mature biofilms. Ultimately, this work seeks to provide a safer, programmable, and microbiome-friendly enzymatic platform for future toothpaste, mouthwash, oral sprays, or biodegradable oral-delivery films. Wiki | Official Page Thu, 29 Oct 2026 21:22:07 GMT https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html PeerTube - https://video.igem.org https://video.igem.org/client/assets/images/icons/icon-1500x1500.png https://video.igem.org/videos/watch/d7d45bd1-b4b4-47d4-8fcf-abc80358f34e All rights reserved, unless otherwise specified in the terms specified at https://video.igem.org/about and potential licenses granted by each content's rightholder.