RESUMO
An innovative and stable probiotic-containing mucoadhesive gel (AL0020), integrated with botanical extracts, has been developed to rebalance the dysbiosis associated with periodontal diseases. Tau-Marin gel, prepared with anhydrous ingredients to prevent the replication of bacteria and ensure good stability over time, was tested against some pathogenic bacteria, belonging to the so-called "red complex", recognized as the most important pathogens in plaque specimens, adherent to the epithelial lining of periodontal pockets. This lipogel was tested in vitro, in a physiological solution (PS) and in a simulated saliva (SS), for up to 8 h, to monitor its ability to release probiotics over time. Probiotics were enumerated through two different techniques, Lacto-Counter Assay (LCA) and Colony Forming Unit (CFU). A detailed physico-chemical profile of AL0020 and its in vitro efficacy in protecting activity against pathogenic bacteria as well as soothing or irritative effect on gingival epithelium were reported. Moreover, a clinical-dermatological trial on 20 volunteers using the product once a day for 30 days was also performed, where the efficacy of the gel in the control of gum disorders was observed.
RESUMO
Objective: Periodontitis is a common disorder that leads to the loss of both tooth and personal well-being, contributing to worsen the risk for metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. Recently, probiotics, characterized by rapid oral dispersion, have been topically used. Here, we present data of a mucoadhesive gel containing probiotics, capable of ensuring a slow release of bacteria to prevent and treat periodontitis. Methods: An original mucoadhesive gel (AL0005) that is anhydrous and of food grade, loaded with the blend of lactobacilli and plants' dry extracts, has been assayed. Results: The release kinetics of the bacterial mixture in different experimental models in vitro, including simulated saliva or physiological solutions, showed a significant and stable release for 5-8 hours. In one in vivo study of a mouse model of periodontitis, a locally applied mucoadhesive gel enriched with probiotic strains improved significantly the tissue pathology when compared with vehicle-exposed mice. Conclusions: Together, the results suggest that this mucoadhesive gel can be useful in the normalization of the gum bacterial flora and improvement of the tissue pathology of gum disorders.