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From the article: On a different line of research, Jeffrey Hillman from the University of Florida[6] developed a genetically modified strain of Streptococcus m
by mouse_ 3y ago
From the article:
On a different line of research, Jeffrey Hillman from the University of Florida[6] developed a genetically modified strain of Streptococcus mutans called BCS3-L1, that is incapable of producing lactic acid – the acid that dissolves tooth enamel – and aggressively replaces native flora. In laboratory tests, rats who were given BCS3-L1 were conferred with a lifetime of protection against S. mutans.[7] BCS3-L1 colonizes the mouth and produces a small amount of a lantibiotic, called MU1140,[7] which allows it to out-compete S. mutans.[8] Hillman suggested that treatment with BCS3-L1 in humans could also provide a lifetime of protection, or, at worst, require occasional re-applications. He stated that the treatment would be available in dentists' offices and "will probably cost less than $100."[9] The product was being developed by Oragenics, but was shelved in 2014, citing regulatory concerns and patent issues.[10] In 2016, Oragenics received a 17-year patent for the product.[11] In 2023, the startup Lumina Probiotic began offering BCS3-L1 application in Próspera, Honduras.
- wwilim 3y agoThat sounds like a two for one deal - your partner doesn't need to pay for the treatment, you just share a passionate kiss and now they too have the improved bacteria
- penjelly 3y agosuper interesting but seems risky
- janalsncm 3y ago> The product was being developed by Oragenics, but was shelved in 2014, citing regulatory concerns and patent issues I would be curious what the regulatory issues were. If it was unsafe or not tested enough that would be important to know. Patent issues don’t say anything about safety to the end user and blocking such a helpful treatment on IP grounds is borderline immoral.