GMOs to eliminate cavities

2004/12/13 Galarraga Aiestaran, Ana - Elhuyar Zientzia

• Genetika
• Mikrobiologia
• Medikuntza

Many would say goodbye to the usual dentist. And it is possible that within a few years an American company can do it. In fact, the company is developing a technique to prevent cavities and have now obtained permission to test the technique in humans.

The bacterium Streptococcus mutans, which lives in the mouth of men and women, opens the door to cavities. This bacterium produces lactic acid by metabolizing the sugar from the food remains, which damages the enamel. The rest of the bacteria enter through the slot that opens in the enamel and thus the decay appears.

But this company has genetically modified the bacteria. Thus, instead of producing lactic acid, it produces a substance called muttin 1140. This substance does not affect enamel and removes non-transgenic Streptococcus mutans. Thanks to this, it is not possible to create cavities.

Now it starts testing in humans and research will last at least four years. Yes, it will be profound, they will investigate whether it is transmitted through kisses.