Binding Characteristics of <i>Streptococcus mutans</i> for Calcium and Casein Phosphopeptide

Abstract

Casein phosphopeptides (CPP) stabilize amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP) and may be used to localize ACP in dental plaque, maintaining a state of supersaturation with respect to tooth enamel, reducing demineralization and enhancing remineralization [Reynolds, J Dent Res 1997;76:1587–1595]. The aim of this paper is to investigate these effects by measuring the affinity and capacity of Streptococcus mutans for CPP–ACP. Using the equlibrium dialysis system described by Rose and Hogg [Biochim Biophys Acta 1995;1245:94–98], assessment of calcium binding by a plaque streptococcus at a fixed CPP–ACP concentration gives a series of CPP–ACP–influenced dissociation constants for calcium. These data can then be used to derive a true dissociation constant for CPP–ACP itself. The results demonstrate that CPP–ACP binds with about twice the affinity of the bacterial cells for calcium up to a value of 0.16 g/g wet weight cells. Application of CPP–ACP to plaque may cause a transient rise in plaque fluid free calcium which may assist remineralization. Subsequently, CPP–ACP will form a source of readily available calcium to inhibit demineralization. Hence, CPP–ACP binds well to plaque, providing a large calcium reservoir, which is likely to restrict mineral loss during a cariogenic episode and provide a potential source of calcium for subsequent remineralization. Overall, once in place, CPP–ACP will restrict the caries process.

Effect of chewing gum on tooth sensitivity following whitening

“…When CPP-ACP is added to the oral cavity, the sticky CPP part bonds readily to the biofilms and surrounding oral tissue, leaving calcium and phosphate in high concentrations at the tooth surface to effect remineralisation. 19 Studies have shown that Recaldent is effective in preventing and reversing early caries. 20 Following whitening procedures, the application of Recaldent might also provide a rapid desensitising effect through rapid protein binding deposition of calcium and phosphate ions within the exposed dentinal tubules.…”

Combined CPP-ACP and photoactivated disinfection (PAD) therapy in arresting root surface caries: a case report

“…[2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15][16][17] Derived from the milk protein, casein, and digested by the enzyme trypsin, one of the most important features of CPP is their abil ity to stabilise amorphous calcium phos phate (ACP), preventing its precipitation in solution. The spectrum of action of the CPP-ACP complex is broad, buffer ing pH, preventing demineralisation and allowing for remineralisation.…”

Bioactive Casein Phosphopeptides in Dairy Products as Nutraceuticals for Functional Foods

“…CPP can help to replace the minerals that were previously lost consequently to caries [66][67]. Hence, there is a great interest in developing CPP as nutraceutical ingredients for the formulation of functional foods.…”

“…This preparation is claimed to stabilize calcium and phosphate ions in high concentrations by binding ACP to pellicle and plaque of the tooth surface. Moreover, CPP-ACP inhibited the adhesion of Streptococcus mutans to the tooth surface producing a copious reservoir of bioavailable calcium ions [67]. Cheese and yogurt CPP have the ability to stabilize calcium phosphate in solution, forming small CPP-ACP nanocomplexes.…”

“…A large number of potential binding sites for calcium can have significant effects on the calcium diffusion coefficient; this effect is maintained at low pH, although overall diffusion is slightly faster [129][130]. Conversely, one may infer that ACP may also bind to dental plaque and tooth enamel, thus having beneficial effects on teeth remineralization [67]. In addition, SerP residues of the CCP-HA complex are exposed to intestinal alkaline phosphatase, which favors metal ion bioavailability by releasing inorganic phosphate.…”