September 14, 2023
What's All the Fuss About Bisindole?
Exciting news in dental research!
Researchers from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, in collaboration with teams from Sichuan University and the National University of Singapore, have identified that 3,3′-Diindolylmethane (DIM) – a naturally occurring molecule also referred to as bisindole – might reduce biofilms responsible for plaque and cavities by a remarkable 90%. Their findings were published in the journal Antibiotics in June, 2023.1
What’s all that mean?
Biofilms: A Quick Primer
Biofilms are what we talk about a lot here at Biocidin Botanicals. (Read “Breaking Up Is Hard to Do: The Sticky Icky World of Biofilms.”)
They grow in many places in your body (mouth and skin are two primary locations) and – importantly – biofilms have been receiving increasing attention for the major role they play in ongoing conditions. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) revealed that 80% of chronic infections are associated with biofilm formation.2
Why Are Biofilms Such a Problem?
Simply put, they can grow quickly and are difficult to eradicate. As living communities of organisms that stick together and attach to surfaces, biofilms are a defense mechanism to prevent the clearance of undesirable microorganisms. They don’t discriminate. Bacterial, fungal, and viral species of microorganisms are all welcome to join this polymicrobial colony.
And What’s Bisindole?
Bisindole is a naturally occurring molecule that’s gained attention in recent years for its potential health benefits, including possibly an ability to combat harmful bacteria and inflammation. 3,3'-Diindolylmethane (DIM) is a natural bisindole found in cruciferous vegetables, and is also used as a dietary supplement.
Study results suggest that DIM and other indoles may inhibit biofilm formation, which has significant potential for addressing numerous health concerns, including:
- Acne and skin lesions3
- Leaky gut syndrome (by improving intestinal permeability)4
- Rheumatoid arthritis (via modulating inflammatory pathways).5
But what has been making news lately is DIM’s potential for mitigating the pathogenicity of Streptococcus mutans, an oral bacterium considered to be a principal cause of dental caries. A recent study (noted above) found that DIM was able to reduce S. mutans biofilm formation by 92%. Additionally, treatment with DIM was found to lower production of extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) — an organic, sticky polymer that helps biofilms form – and significantly decrease its durability under acidic conditions.6
Looking Forward to More Research
It’s exciting that researchers are studying possible natural solutions for issues that many of us deal with every day. And while more research is needed to understand the full benefits of including bisindole in more natural health products, we’re happy to see this progress!
While bisindole is not currently available in toothpaste, our Dentalcidin® Oral Care System is available today. A dental pilot study using phase-contrast microscopy shows how Biocidin® LSF – a key ingredient in Dentalcidin® LS – utilizes liposomal technology to clear unwanted microbes in dental plaque, a common biofilm.
And with consumers increasingly looking for products that not only promote oral health but also align with their values in sustainability and eco-friendliness, published research into natural solutions is good news indeed.