KSL, a protein, serves as an anti-adhesive and abrasive agent capable of breaking apart buildup on teeth and can be released from gum
The first priority of a Marine on the frontlines is to take care of their weapon. Unfortunately, this means hygiene may take a back seat and daily tasks like brushing and flossing teeth often become an afterthought.
Researchers at the University of Kentucky have found a possible solution to preserving the dental hygiene of deployed service members. The school’s College of Pharmacy has developed a gum that fights the buildup of plaque therefore preventing dental decay. The key is an antimicrobial, known as KSL, which serves as an anti-adhesive and abrasive agent capable of breaking apart buildup on teeth.
KSL is a protein that kills harmful germs by targeting the cell membranes of bacteria in the mouth.
One of the major hurdles with developing the gum was how the substance would be released. The goal was to have the KSL released slowly over a period of 20 to 30 minutes of chewing.
While the gum was developed with the military in mind, its use may spread far beyond the battlefield. Abeer Al-Ghananeem, the principal investigator of the project, says she hopes the gum can be used to promote dental hygiene in third world countries as well.
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