Propolis – a sticky substance manufactured by honeybees to protect their hives, could act as a potent anti-cavity agent, say dentists from the University of Rochester Medical Center. Tests on rats revealed that the substance cut cavity rates in rats by as much as 60%, and virtually halted the production of an enzyme that plays a vital role in the formation of dental plaque. As rats develop cavities in the same way as humans, the team are confident that propolis could help to prevent dental caries in people. Research showed that propolis inhibits the production of glucosyltransferase (GTF) enzymes, which create a so-called biofilm than encourages bacteria to stick to the surface of teeth, by as much as 95% in a test-tube and 60-70% on tooth-like materials. Following on from the success of the animal tests, the team are now hoping to carry out human studies.
SOURCE/REFERENCE: Reported by the University of Rochester Medical Centre on the 29th August 2001
