PROJECT R&D+I

TITLE
QUITORAL: DEVELOPMENT OF NEW CHITOSAN FORMULATIONS WITH APPLICATIONS ON
ORAL MEDICINE

HIGHLIGHTS
Prototypes of oral compositions with chitosan as an antimicrobial agent have been
developed, such as oral films, oral/ buccal antiseptics, dental cement and cones for filling
and sealing the root canal which comprise as oral compositions with chitosan.

ABSTRACT
Endodontical treatment demands considerable efforts aiming microbial elimination from the root
system and dentinal tubules. Following treatment and irrigation, the closing of tubules and root
system must be fully achieved, ensuring no empty cavities and the maintenance of asepsis, thus
preventing the risk of reinfection. The management of caries, gengivitis and bad breath (halit)
usually involves the use of mouth rinses and toothpaste showing anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and
analgesic properties. Such products are usually prescribed after dental treatment, in order to
reduce inflammation and to promote the healing process. Chitosans are obtained by N
diacetylation of chitin and show unique properties: solubility diluted acids, biocompatibility, low
toxicity and are biodegradable. Hidrophobins are cystein-rich proteins forming highly amphypatic
polymeric monolayers. The conjunct use of both products might allow the development of new
highly effective dental sealants. We expect to develop chitosan dental cones or a chitosan sheat
around guta cones, as well as to create a sealant (cement) and a dental tubule rinsing solution,
assessing its physical properties and antimicrobial activity, in alternative to the present available
low efficacy alternatives. The use of chitosan toothpaste might additionally help reduce the
formation of dental plaque and bad breath. We also aim to develop and characterize new chitosan
formulations, to be afterwards included in new toothpaste, oral rinsing solutions and chewing
gums. Attending to the advantage of its antimicrobial, antiseptic and antimicrobial activities, such
products will represent a breakthrough in Oral Medicine. In summary, the main objective of this
project was to evaluate whey protein and yeast remaining in the production of cheese and beer,
respectively, through the development, characterization and validation of these fractions, in
particular in the production of peptide concentrates and obtaining -glucans with biological
activities recognized for incorporation into functional foods.

KEYWORDS
By-Products, Chitosan, Endodontics, Antimicrobial, Oral Compositions.

PROMOTERS / PARTNERS
Escola Superior de Biotecnologia Universidade Catlica Portuguesa (coordinator); Bioinstruments SA.

FINANCING PROGRAM EXECUTION DATE GLOBAL BUDGET

Innovation agency (ADI) 2009-2012 228.821,72

CONTACTS E-MAIL PHONE

Eduardo Costa emcosta@porto.ucp.pt +351 22 55 800 00
Manuela Pintado mpintado@porto.ucp.pt +351 22 55 800 00