[ToothDecay]

Hi all, quite a specific question that I haven’t been able to get ahold of the answer to.

I’m currently researching the effect of proanthocyanidins PAC’s (Sub-Class of polyphenols called flavonoids)on preventing tooth decay. I wanted to know how does proanthocyanidins interactions with enamel and saliva inhibit bacteria from binding? Or more specifically how they have anti-adhesion features preventing bacteria adhesion to enamel.  I’m looking at A-type PAC.

From what I’ve seen so far the anti-adhesion characteristics are linked to their (epi)gallocatechin units (specifically pyrogallol unit) which allows them to bind directly to the peptidoglycan of the bacteria cell wall. However, sources I’ve read can’t seem to confirm this and I was hoping someone would be able to provide me either confirmation that this is indeed the reason behind its anti-adhesion or an alternative explanation.

Thankyou!