Figure 2.

Mechanism of action of P₁₁-4. (A,B) Initial caries lesion characterized by demineralized and porous enamel (white spot lesion). (C) The monomeric solution of P₁₁-4 on the initial caries lesion surface diffuses through the pores of demineralized enamel. (D) Triggered by local pH on the enamel surface, P₁₁-4 undergoes self-assembly by β-sheet formation; thus, a 3D matrix is formed in the lesion. (E) A 3D matrix with a high affinity for Ca²⁺ and PO₄³⁻ and nucleation of minerals forms until maturation in HAP-like crystals (de novo mineralization). (F) Biomimetic mineralized enamel.