A group of scientists representing the UCLA School of Dentistry; the UCLA Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, and C3 Jian Corporation have succeeded in creating a pheromone-guided “smart” anti-microbial peptide capable of selectively eliminating Streptococcus mutans, a leading bacterial cause of tooth decay, in 30 seconds.
Standard ways to combat bacterial infections include vaccinations, hygienic care and antibiotic treatment, all of which have limitations. A new, experimental form of therapy, so-called “smart” or specifically targeted anti-microbial peptides (STAMPs), which have proven effective in killing harmful bacteria while leaving healthful bacteria intact, may be the answer to preventing tooth decay before it occurs. Moreover, in the future scientists may apply the STAMP method to eradicate unhealthy flora in other areas of the body, such as the intestine.