Comparative investigation of the antimicrobial effects of cerium complex with black and green tea extracts

Abstract

Introduction: The rise of resistance necessitates the development of antibacterial agents for human health. The Camellia sinensis, rich in nutrients, exhibits significant antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial characteristics. Additionally, numerous studies have explored the unique properties of certain elements, including cerium. Based on these findings, the antibacterial properties of Camellia sinensis and cerium can be used to develop novel antimicrobial agents. Aim: The objective of the research is to develop a complex of black and green tea with cerium through an environmentally friendly synthesis method, and to incorporate this formulation into health products, including dental floss. This approach has garnered significant interest owing to its sustainable and economical characteristics.Materials and Methods: This complex was applied to the surface of silk thread and various commercial dental floss using the dip coating technique. The physicochemical characteristics of the complex were assessed through SEM, FTIR, DLS, and tensile analysis. The antimicrobial efficacy of the silk coated with the complex was tested employing the disk diffusion method against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Candida albicans, Streptococcus mutans and Porphyromonas gingivalis.Results: The FTIR results confirmed the formation of the complex. Additionally, the disk diffusion test results indicated that the synthesized complex exhibited significant antimicrobial activity against E. coli, S. aureus, and C. albicans. Furthermore, SEM-EDX analyses were conducted to verify the presence of the complex on the silk, revealing that the cerium content in the coated silk was 82.32%, while it was absent in the uncoated silk thread.Discussion and Conclusion: The antimicrobial efficacy of the complex surpasses that of tea extract or cerium when used independently, indicating that the synergistic effects of these components together will be highly impactful. Furthermore, owing to the anti-inflammatory characteristics of Camellia sinensis, this complex may prove beneficial in addressing various issues within the oral cavity.