A recent report published by the journal Nature Medicine, a group of British scientists has developed a vaccine against dental caries from genetically modified plants snuff. The results obtained in a patient at four months were very encouraging and this has been assumed that the treatment could be available to the public within a few years.
Tooth decay is caused by the bacteria Streptococcus mutans, which produces an acid that coats the teeth and feeds on sugar and other carbohydrates. It affects half of children aged five years and three quarters of adolescents of 17 years. To eradicate this problem, simply cover the teeth with the liquid vaccine has been developed. A few applications provide protection against cavities for at least four months. The active components are antibodies that attach to tooth decay bacteria, preventing them from remaining on the teeth. While these harmful microbes are disappearing, others harmless teeth are installed in preventing the possible presence of other cells of S. mutans.
This work is the result of 25 years of efforts made in the Guys Hospital London, UK. At first the goal was to produce a traditional vaccine injection in blood, but the revolutionary advances in molecular biology have allowed the production of snuff modified plants as “factories” that synthesize large amounts of clean, safe vaccine for oral consumption. Eight small plants or one large enough to produce a full treatment. From plantations snuff it would be very economical to produce the vaccine on a large scale.
Besides being the first effective therapeutic molecule in humans made from genetically modified plants, is the first time a vaccine secretory (as opposed to blood) is used in human trials. Professor Tom Lehner, one of the scientists who conduct the research, was the first person who tested the colorless and tasteless liquid eight years ago. His comments were: “First, you have to conduct a field study. Then we can decide if the patient can be given the vaccine. I personally would prefer that, as we learn more about this treatment in coming years , only dentists were those who applied. After a few years, we can begin to experiment with self-application, using toothpaste, mouthwash or even tablets. ”
The British Dental Association welcomed the news but added a warning: “Even if the vaccine does come into widespread use, dentists would like the public not to abandon the simple dental health measures.” Practice good oral hygiene and brushing teeth regularly with fluoride toothpaste. Also follow a regular schedule of meals and try not to eat between meals helps to protect and improve dental health.
Tags: caries, cavities, Dental Care, teeth, tooth, tooth decay
