Lab tests show that new material provides relief from dry mouth

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A novel aqueous lubricant technology designed to help people living with xerostomia (dry mouth) is between four and five times more effective than commercially available products, lab tests have found.

A potato protein - coloured dark green - forms the mesh-like architecture of the hydrated microgel, partially coated by a hydrogel made by a polysaccharide xanthan gum, shown in light green
A potato protein - coloured dark green - forms the mesh-like architecture of the hydrated microgel, partially coated by a hydrogel made by a polysaccharide xanthan gum, shown in light green - Dr Anna Tanczos

Developed at Leeds University, the saliva substitute is described as comparable to natural saliva in the way it hydrates the mouth and acts as a lubricant.

Under a microscope, the molecules in the microgel appear as a lattice-like network or sponge which bind onto the surface of the mouth. Surrounding the microgel is a polysaccharide-based hydrogel which traps water. According to the university, this dual function will keep the mouth feeling hydrated for longer. 

In a statement, project lead Professor Anwesha Sarkar said: “Our laboratory benchmarking reveals that this substance will have a longer-lasting effect.  

“The problem with many of the existing commercial products is they are only effective for short periods because they do not bind to the surface of the mouth, with people having to frequently reapply the substance, sometimes while they are talking or as they eat. That affects people’s quality of life.” 

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Results from the laboratory evaluation - “Benchmarking of a microgel-reinforced hydrogel-based aqueous lubricant against commercial saliva substitutes” - are reported in Scientific Reports. 

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microgel