Development of Monoclonal Antibodies Against Mfa1 and Their Protective Capacity in an Experimental Periodontitis Model

Importance: Fimbriae (pili) play an important role in bacterial adhesion, invasion of host cells and tissues, and formation of biofilms. Studies have shown that two types of fimbriae of , FimA and Mfa1, are important for colonization and infection through their binding to host tissues and other bacteria. While anti-FimA antibodies have been shown to improve periodontitis, the effect of anti-Mfa1 antibodies on infection and periodontitis was previously unknown. In this study, we report for the first time that anti-Mfa1 monoclonal antibodies can reduce infection and improve periodontitis. These findings suggest that Mfa1 represents a promising therapeutic target, and the development of anti-Mfa1 mAbs holds a potential as essential diagnostic and adjunctive therapeutic tools for managing -related diseases.