Biofilm inhibiting and dispersing ingredients for oral care
Introducing a novel series of fatty acid analogs, including 2-heptylcyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (2CP), designed to prevent and disperse harmful oral biofilms. These compounds offer a 12-hour sustained release to maintain oral freshness, applicable in toothpaste, lozenges, and denture adhesives.
Overview
This research introduces innovative fatty acid analogs, notably 2-heptylcyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (2CP), which exhibit significant anti-biofilm properties. These compounds are designed to prevent and disperse oral biofilms, which are a primary cause of chronic bad breath. By achieving a high affinity for dental minerals, they ensure a 12-hour sustained release, preventing recolonization by malodorous pathogens. The compounds are integrated into non-rinse oral care products such as toothpaste, lozenges, gums, and denture adhesives, providing a clinical-grade solution to halitosis while neutralizing garlic-derived odors through their acidic nature.
Technical specifications
- Key Ingredients: 2-heptylcyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (2CP) derived from orange peels.
- Release Profile: Achieves 60–80% active release within 4 hours, with a protective effect lasting up to 12 hours.
- Product Formats: Toothpaste, mouthwash, and denture adhesives.
- Compatibility: High affinity for hydroxyapatite and dental minerals, enhancing sustained release and effectiveness.
Technology readiness level
Currently at TRL 4, the technology has been validated in lab settings. Future validation plans include efficacy testing using multi-species oral biofilm models and cytotoxicity testing according to ISO 10993-5 standards. The goal is to progress towards clinical validation, focusing on plaque accumulation and volatile sulfur compounds (VSC) odor reduction through randomized crossover studies.
About University of Memphis
The University of Memphis is an R1 public research university with strengths spanning engineering, earth sciences, cognitive science, public health, and business. Signature units include the FedEx Institute of Technology, the Center for Earthquake Research and Information focused on the New Madrid Seismic Zone, and the Institute for Intelligent Systems working at the intersection of AI, learning, and cognitive modeling. Faculty secure competitive funding from agencies such as the National Science Foundation, National Institutes of Health, and Department of Defense, alongside partnerships with regional industry. The University of Memphis Research Foundation and UMRF Research Park facilitate technology transfer, startup formation, and corporate collaborations. Application domains where the university is particularly active include logistics and supply chain, seismic hazard assessment, cybersecurity, intelligent tutoring and learning technologies, health analytics, and advanced manufacturing.
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