Temporin-Derived Peptides Disrupt the Exopolysaccharide Matrix of <i>Streptococcus mutans</i> to Prevent Related Dental Caries

Dental caries, the most prevalent oral infectious disease, is closely associated with <i>Streptococcus mutans</i>. This study investigates the antimicrobial properties of the temporin-GHb peptide and its derivatives (GHbR, GHbK, and GHb3K) against <i>S. mutans</i>. These peptides exhibited potent <i>anti</i>-<i>S. mutans</i> activity through a membrane-disruptive mechanism, confirmed by flow cytometry and fluorescence staining assays while showing lower bactericidal effects on beneficial probiotic bacteria. Additionally, they inhibited the biofilm matrix formation by disrupting extracellular polysaccharide (EPS) synthesis, as demonstrated by zymography, qRT-PCR, and sucrose metabolism experiments. In a rat model of <i>S. mutans</i>-induced dental caries, treatment with these peptides significantly reduced the incidence of dental lesions. H&E staining analysis of rat oral tissues confirmed the biosafety of GHb and GHb3K. These findings suggest that temporin-derived peptides effectively target EPS, inhibiting biofilm formation and virulence, offering a promising strategy for preventing dental caries and promoting oral health. The findings suggest potential applications for peptide-based interventions to mitigate biofilm-related issues across various fields, including agriculture, food processing, and healthcare.