Flavones with antibacterial activity against cariogenic bacteria

Abstract

Methanolic extracts obtained from 13 plants were studied for their antibacterial activity against cariogenic bacteria. Among them, the extract from Artocarpus heterophyllus showed the most intensive activity. Serial chromatographic purifications offered two active compounds which were identified as 6-(3-methyl-1-butenyl)-5,2',4'-trihydroxy-3-isoprenyl-7-methoxyflavone and 5,7,2',4'-tetrahydroxy-6-isoprenylflavone Both isolates completely inhibited the growth of primary cariogenic bacteria at 3.13-12.5 μg/ml. They also exhibited the growth inhibitory effects on plaque-forming. streptococci. These phytochemical isoprenylflavones would be potent compounds for the prevention of dental canes.