Glucanhydrolase from Lipomyces starkeyi KSM 22 as Potential Mouthwash Ingredient

A glucanhydrolase (a DXAMase exhibiting both dextranolytic and amylolytic activities) from Lipomyces starkeyi KSM 22 hydrolyzed polysaccharides having ${\alpha}-(1{\rightarrow}3)-,\;{\alpha}(1{\rightarrow}4)-,\;and\;{\alpha}-(1{\rightarrow}6)$-D-glucosidic linkages. The oral hygiene benefits of DXAMase-containing mouthwash were examined in relation to human experimental gingivitis during a 3-week period without brushing. The DXAMase-treated group exhibited a lower increase in plaque accumulation and gingival index score than the chlorhexidine-treated group. The DXAMase-treated group also showed less tongue accumulation, bad taste, and tooth staining, thus indicating a positive role for DXAMase as an antiplaque agent ingredient.