Iron Oxide Nanoparticles for Biofilm Control and Prevention of Tooth Decay

Iron oxide nanoparticle compositions disrupt biofilms, such as dental biofilms, and support oral disease prevention by combining catalytic nanoparticles with hydrogen peroxide.
Problem :
Oral diseases affect ~ 3.5 billion people globally, with untreated dental caries (tooth decay) remaining the most common condition in 2019 (World Health Organization (WHO) Oral Health Data Portal). Dental caries is the most prevalent chronic disease globally, affecting approximately 2.5 billion people with untreated decay, while severe periodontal disease affects 1 billion people, and complete tooth loss affects 350 million people. Dental biofilms (plaque) are multilayer bacterial communities that exist within a protective extracellular matrix, thus making them extremely difficult to treat or remove. Over time, a highly acidic microenvironment can develop within the biofilm which results in dental caries and tooth demineralization Biofilms are difficult to remove because their extracellular matrix protects embedded microorganisms and hinders diffusion. Existing antimicrobial agents may not target the matrix effectively and can have undesirable side effects. Anti-caries agents such as fluoride have limited effects against plaque formation. Topically introduced agents can also show limited retention and bioactivity in the mouth.
Solution :
The technology uses FDA-approved iron oxide nanoparticles in compositions to treat and prevent biofilms, caries, and related oral diseases. In some embodiments, the nanoparticles are administered with hydrogen peroxide to generate radicals that degrade matrix material and kill embedded bacteria. The compositions can also include enzyme-conjugated nanoparticles, polymeric coatings, or fluoride. The technology also supports formulations for oral delivery and surface treatment.
Technology :
The technology includes compositions containing one or more iron nanoparticles, optionally with hydrogen peroxide, fluoride, metal dopants, coatings, or enzyme conjugates. The nanoparticles can be used on surfaces having biofilms or on surfaces at risk for biofilm development. Disclosed formulations include liquids, gels, sprays, and oral care products. The technology also describes use with medical devices and industrial materials to reduce biofilm formation.
Advantages :

Targets both biofilm disruption and biofilm and caries prevention with nanoparticle-based compositions.
Supports matrix degradation and bacterial inhibition when used with hydrogen peroxide.
Can be formulated with additives such as fluoride, polymeric coatings, or enzyme conjugates.
Supports multiple delivery formats including oral care products, liquids, gels, and sprays.
Extends use beyond oral surfaces to medical devices and industrial materials.

Applications :

Dental caries: The technology can be used to prevent or treat oral diseases, including dental caries.
Oral care products: The technology can be incorporated into toothpastes, mouth rinses, gels, varnishes, and related oral formulations.
Medical devices: The technology can be incorporated into catheters or medical tubing to prevent biofilm formation on device surfaces.
Industrial materials: The technology can be formulated for delivery onto industrial materials to reduce biofilm formation.

Intellectual Property :