Effects of Sucralose on the Virulence Factors of Streptococcus mutans

Abstract

Sucralose (trichlorogalactosucrose) is an intensive sweetener which is synthesized from sucrose. The effects of sucralose on the acid production and glucan synthesis from sucrose were examined in vitro. Streptococcus mutans and related oral streptococcal species did not ferment sucralose. Furthermore, sucralose exhibited no significant inhibition of insoluble glucan synthesis from sucrose by GTase of S. mutans or sucrose-dependent cell adherence of S. mutans on the smooth surface. These results suggest that sucralose may be used as a low-calorie and non-cariogenic sweetener.