Researchers Reveal a Revolutionary Solution for Dry Mouth

A recently developed aqueous lubricant technology, aimed at assisting individuals experiencing dry mouth, has demonstrated laboratory test results indicating it is between four and five times more efficient than currently available commercial products. Crafted by researchers from the University of Leeds, this saliva substitute is characterized by its ability to effectively hydrate the mouth and function as a lubricant during the process of chewing, closely resembling the properties of natural saliva.

Explanation of Microgel Technology

When observed under a high-powered microscope, the molecules within the material, referred to as a microgel, form a lattice-like network or sponge that adheres to the surface of the mouth. Enveloping the microgel is a hydrogel based on polysaccharides, which effectively captures and retains water. This dual mechanism ensures prolonged hydration and a sustained moist sensation in the mouth.

Professor Anwesha Sarkar, leading the development of the saliva substitute, stated, “Our laboratory assessments indicate that this substance will offer a more enduring effect. The issue with many existing commercial products is their limited effectiveness over short durations, as they fail to bind to the mouth’s surface. This often necessitates frequent reapplication, sometimes even during activities such as talking or eating, negatively impacting people’s quality of life.”

The study’s findings and benchmark results, titled “Benchmarking of a microgel-reinforced hydrogel-based aqueous lubricant against commercial saliva substitutes,” are published today (November 20) in the journal Scientific Reports.

The recently created substance’s enhanced efficacy compared to current products can be attributed to a phenomenon known as adsorption. Adsorption refers to the capability of a molecule to attach itself to a surface, in this instance, the interior surface of the mouth.

Variations in Products and Effectiveness

The innovative microgel is available in two variants: one formulated with a dairy protein, and the other is a vegan option utilizing a potato protein.

However, the efficacy of the new substance was assessed against eight commercially available saliva substitutes, including Boots’ brand product – Biotene, Oralieve, Saliveze, and Glandosane. All benchmarking procedures were conducted on an artificial tongue-like surface in a laboratory setting and did not involve human participants.

The testing demonstrated that the Leeds product exhibited a lower level of desorption, which is the opposite of adsorption and indicates the amount of lubricant lost from the surface of the synthetic tongue.

In comparison to commercially available products, where lubricant loss ranged from 23% to 58%, the saliva substitute developed at Leeds experienced only a 7% loss. The dairy version slightly outperformed the vegan version.

Expert Evaluation by Dr. Olivia Pabois

Dr. Olivia Pabois, a Research Fellow at Leeds and the first author of the paper, commented, “The test results serve as a robust proof of concept, suggesting that our material is likely to be more effective under real-world conditions and could provide relief up to five times longer than existing products. The benchmarking results highlight three key areas of advantage: our microgel offers high moisturization, strong binding to mouth surfaces, and effective lubrication, enhancing comfort for eating and talking.”

The components utilized in the formulation of the saliva substitute, including dairy and plant proteins along with carbohydrates, are both non-toxic and non-caloric for humans.

While the testing of the new product has been confined to laboratory analysis, the scientific team is optimistic that similar results will be observed in human trials.

The study’s authors aim to translate the lubricant technology into commercially available products with the goal of enhancing the quality of life for individuals grappling with distressing dry mouth conditions.

Addressing Xerostomia – A Common Healthcare Challenge

Dry mouth, medically referred to as xerostomia, is a prevalent condition affecting approximately one in ten individuals, particularly prevalent among older adults and those undergoing cancer treatment or taking a combination of medications.

In more severe instances, dry mouth can cause individuals discomfort when swallowing, contributing to issues such as malnutrition and dental problems. These complications, in turn, elevate the strain on healthcare systems.

Read the original article on: ScitechDaily

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