The potential anti-caries activity of theaflavins (TFs): investigation of their inhibitory effect on matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and the underlying mechanism

Key Points

• The aim is to explore how theaflavins from black tea can inhibit MMP-9 and contribute to reducing dental caries.
• Experimental evaluation of theaflavins' effects on MMP-9 activity
• Graphical representation of the inhibition mechanism
• Analysis of the anti-caries potential
• Theaflavins significantly inhibit MMP-9 activity
• Inhibition of MMP-9 is linked to slowed progression of dental caries
• The findings highlight a new potential for theaflavins in oral health prevention