Moderate effect of enamel matrix derivative (Emdogain® Gel) on Porphyromonas gingivalis growth in vitro

Objective: The aim of this study was to analyse the antibacterial effects of Emdogain (R) Get or its constituents on the growth of the suspected periodontopathogen Porphyromonas gingivatis. Study design: The effects of the proteins of enamel matrix derivative (EMD), the commercial product Emdogain (R) Gel or its vehicle propylene glycol alginate (PGA) (Straumann, Switzerland) on P gingivalis growth were determined by two methods: broth dilution assay (BDA) and agar diffusion assay (ADA). Results: BDA-Emdogain (R) Gel inhibited moderately the growth of P gingivalis, whereas EMD showed no effect. The PGA vehicle inhibited the growth completely. ADA-Emdogain (R) Gel resulted in some inhibition in growth but was not significantly different from control. EMD revealed no zone of inhibition. PGA demonstrated statistically significant zones of inhibition. Conclusion: Emdogain (R) Gel shows moderate antibacterial activities against P gingivalis. These properties seem to be due to the PGA component of the get preparation. 2005 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.