Investigation of the antimicrobial potential of brazilian propolis extracts on polymicrobial biofilms and their influence on the electrochemical performance of titanium surfaces

• Grant number: 24/16629-0
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: December 01, 2024
• End date: November 30, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Dentistry - Dental Clinics
• Principal Investigator: Valentim Adelino Ricardo Barão
• Grantee: Júlia Maria Teixeira Teodoro
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Odontologia de Piracicaba (FOP). Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP). Piracicaba , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Titanium surfaces with SLA coatings, due to their increased roughness, can promote biofilm accumulation, leading to peri-implant infections that compromise the longevity of implant-supported prostheses. Although mechanical therapy is an essential step in controlling these infections, its efficacy alone may be limited. In this context, the combination with antimicrobial agents, such as propolis, has gained attention which offer easy access, anticorrosive properties, and an attractive composition. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the antimicrobial effect of the topical application of Brazilian green and red propolis extract on polymicrobial biofilms developed on SLA-treated surfaces, and to investigate how immersion in different propolis extract solutions influences the electrochemical performance of these surfaces. Commercially pure titanium discs, polished and treated with SLA, will be divided into four groups: 0.9% NaCl (growth control), 0.12% chlorhexidine (positive control), 11% red propolis, and 11% green propolis. Surface characterizations will be performed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), 3D confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), wettability, and roughness. The antimicrobial potential of the surfaces against polymicrobial biofilm (microcosm model derived from human saliva) will be assessed by colony-forming units (CFU/mL), biofilm structure by SEM and CLSM, dry weight, and metabolism by XTT assay. The effect of the immersion protocol on the viability of pre-osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells will be evaluated using the MTT assay. The electrochemical behavior of the surfaces will be evaluated (corrosion potential, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, potentiodynamic curve, and corrosion rate). Data will be submitted to statistical test most appropriate (a = 5%).