Stabilizing Impact of Monomeric Catechins and Dimeric Proanthocyanins on Dentin Collagen

Objectives Dentin, a highly mineralized tissue, is primarily composed of collagen fibers that play essential roles in mineralization and act as a protective barrier against disease. However, the exposure of collagen to dentin decay or acid erosion activates Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPs), which lead to collagen degradation. This study aims to explore the potential of exogenous polyphenols, specifically purified proanthocyanins (PAs), to enhance collagen stability and mitigate degradation, with a focus on their effectiveness compared to mixed polyphenol extracts. Methods Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), methylated EGCG, and dimeric PAs (EGCG-EGCG and EC-EC) were used to assess their impact on collagen. Attenuated Total Reflection Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) was employed to analyze the chemical structure of collagen after treatment with these polyphenolic compounds. Additionally, thermal stability and resistance to enzymatic degradation were evaluated to determine the efficacy of these polyphenols in stabilizing collagen. Results Our findings revealed that dimeric PAs significantly improved collagen stability, exhibiting superior results compared to monomeric catechins (EGCG and methylated EGCG). The dimeric PAs were more effective in enhancing thermal stability and resistance to enzymatic degradation. Furthermore, the content of phenolic hydroxyl groups was identified as a critical factor contributing to the stabilization of collagen fibers. Conclusion This study highlights the potential of natural polyphenols, particularly dimeric proanthocyanins, in enhancing collagen stability. The findings suggest that these polyphenols could be valuable for dental applications, contributing to improved dentin health by preventing collagen degradation and enhancing its resilience to external stresses.