Effect of Commiphora myrrha Extract on Biofilm Formation of Lactobacillus Isolated from Teeth Caries

Abstract Background: Dental caries starts, progresses, and results in tooth decay due to biological factors such as cariogenic bacteria. Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus are considered to be the main microorganisms involved in this condition. Objectives: To study the effect of Myrrh extract as an antibacterial and anti-biofilm formation of Lactobacillus isolated from teeth caries. Materials and Methods: Approximately 200 clinical swabs were collected from various schools and hospitals in Baghdad, Iraq, and culture and biochemical tests were used for detection. The VITEK2 compact system was used to confirm identification. The drug and Myrrh extract susceptibility tests were performed using the macrodillution method. The MTP method was used for the biofilm formation assay. Clevenger apparatus used for Myrrh extract, its chemical composition was identified by GC mass method. Detection of LuxS and pfs in 12 isolates (moderate in biofilm formation) by conventional polymerase chain reaction. Results: Approximately 65 isolates were identified as Lactobacillus ( L. fermentum and L. plantarum ). 58 (89.23%) isolates have the ability to form biofilm. All L. fermentum isolates were intermediate resistant to ceftriaxone and cefotaxime, but sensitive to ampicillin, meropenem, and amoxicillin-clavulanic acid. 9 (81.82%) isolates of L. plantarum revealed resistance to both ceftriaxone and cefotaxime, but 2 (18.18%) isolates were intermediate to these drugs, and all L. plantarum were sensitive to ampicillin, meropenem, and amoxicillin-clavulanic acid. Myrrh extract consists of 35 chemical compounds. All of these 12 isolates, which are most productive in biofilm formation, became nonproducers after processing with Myrrh extract. All of these 12 isolates have LuxS and pfs . Conclusion: Myrrh extract has an antibacterial effect and is effective against biofilm formation to prevent bacterial attachment on the teeth and teeth caries formation.