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ABSTRACT The fungus Candida albicans is a prominent cariogenic fungal agent that works in association with Streptococcus mutans to accelerate the formation of oral cancer and tooth decay. This study evaluates caffeine‐encapsulated titanium oxide nanoparticles (CF‐TiO 2 NPs) for their potential to prevent biofilm formation on teeth and enhance oral anticancer treatment by influencing apoptotic gene regulation. The synthesized CF‐TiO 2 NPs were characterized using ultraviolet, scanning electron microscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, and Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy analyses, and their antioxidant activity was confirmed through free radical quenching studies. Antimicrobial efficacy was assessed using a zone of inhibition test, revealing strong activity against dental pathogens with a minimal inhibitory concentration of 80 µg/mL. Molecular docking using AutoDock explored interactions between CF and biofilm target sites, supporting their inhibitory potential. In vitro cytotoxicity studies on KB cancer cells showed a dose‐dependent increase in cytotoxic effects, with CF‐TiO 2 NPs promoting apoptotic gene upregulation at concentrations of 20–160 µg/mL. CF‐TiO 2 NPs demonstrated excellent antioxidant, antibacterial, and anticancer properties, showcasing their promise for oral therapeutic applications. This research highlights a novel approach to managing oral infections and associated complications while improving systemic oral health. Notably, this study is the first to report the biofilm‐inhibitory and anticancer potential of CF‐TiO 2 NPs.
Hussain et al. (Mon,) studied this question.