Isolation and characterization of Streptococcus mutans in heart valve and dental plaque specimens from a patient with infective endocarditis

Presence of dysfunctional soluble guanylate cyclase in mesenteric resistance arteries from rats with mild ligature-induced periodontitis

Periodontitis is notable for its high prevalence in the oral cavity and its association with systemic diseases. Functional alterations in vasomotor activity occur in the arteries of rats with mild periodontitis, primarily due to decreased soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) enzyme activity. This study aims to investigate the functional response of mesenteric resistance arteries (MRA) obtained from rats with mild periodontitis. Vascular reactivity of MRAs from rats in the ligature (L) or sham (S) groups was assessed using a wire myograph. Additionally, antioxidant enzyme activity, the presence of nitrated proteins, cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) levels, and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy were analyzed. The MRAs from the L group showed lower pD2 values in response to sodium nitroprusside or sildenafil and decreased Emax to the sGC stimulator Bay 41-2271 compared to the S group. However, no differences were observed between the groups with respect to the sGC activator Bay 60-2770. The L group exhibited increased nitrotyrosine protein expression, enhanced catalase activity, and reduced superoxide dismutase activity, along with decreased cGMP content after SNP stimulation. The EPR spectrum of the L group showed a weak peak at g 6.00, compared to the S group, confirming the oxidation of sGC heme-iron (Fe+2) to heme-Fe+3. In the early phase of bilateral ligature-induced periodontitis in rats, functional changes in the nitric oxide (NO)-cGMP pathway occur in the MRA due to reduced sGC activity and excessive production of iNOS-derived NO, superoxide anion, or a combination of both.

When oral health affects overall health: biofilms, dental infections, and emerging antimicrobial strategies

Dental health is a crucial component of overall health, yet it is frequently overlooked in discussions about well-being. This article explores the multifaceted aspects of dental infections, primarily focusing on biofilms formed by pathogenic bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans and Porphyromonas gingivalis. These biofilms contribute to dental caries and periodontal disease, conditions that affect oral health and have systemic consequences. Recent advancements in understanding biofilm formation and interactions have led to novel strategies for prevention and treatment, including using nanoparticles and smart hydrogels designed to disrupt biofilm integrity while promoting biocompatibility with human tissues. Furthermore, the article highlights the potential of natural remedies, including herbal extracts, as adjuncts in maintaining oral hygiene and combating microbial infections. A comprehensive overview of biofilm dynamics, including adhesion, maturation, and dispersion, is presented, alongside discussions on innovative therapeutic approaches addressing the limitations of conventional treatments. Ultimately, this article emphasizes the importance of maintaining dental health in preventing a wide spectrum of health issues, reinforcing that the mouth is a gateway to the body.

New insights into iron uptake in Streptococcus mutans: evidence for a role of siderophore-like molecules

Streptococcus mutans, a gram-positive coccus commonly found in the human oral cavity, is the primary causative agent of dental caries as well as infective endocarditis. Bacteria produce potent iron chelators called siderophores to absorb iron. Because, there are few studies on siderophore-mediated iron transport in S. mutans, the current study investigates the presence of such a mechanism in S. mutans GS-5. Deferration of culture medium and different concentrations of 2, 2'-Bipyridyl has been used to simulate iron-restricted conditions. Iron restriction alters the colony morphology and slows bacterial growth. Cross-feeding conditioned medium into an iron-restricted medium promotes bacterial growth, indicating the presence of siderophore-like molecules. This was further confirmed by Chrome Azurol S (CAS) assay and Modified CAS-agar assay. Cśaky's and Arnow's assays detected the presence of hydroxamate and catecholate-type molecules in optimal and iron-restricted conditions, respectively. Further, the siderophore-like molecules were extracted and purified with thin layer chromatography (TLC). TLC elutes were also found to be positive for iron-chelation in CAS-agar assay and aided growth of S. mutans under iron-restricted conditions. LC-MS analysis of culture supernatants under iron-restricted conditions identified iron-binding small molecules, including a catechol structural motif. Computational analysis utilizing KEGG and BLASTp suggested homologues of siderophore biosynthesis and transport proteins, including genes associated with mutanobactin production. These findings indicate a possible siderophore-mediated iron uptake mechanism in S. mutans GS-5, warranting further molecular studies and advanced spectroscopic characterization of this unidentified siderophore. Once confirmed, this mechanism can be used as a potential drug target to control streptococcal infection.

Roles of Streptococcus mutans in human health: beyond dental caries

Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) is the main pathogenic bacterium causing dental caries, and the modes in which its traits, such as acid production, acid tolerance, and adhesion that contribute to the dental caries process, has been clarified. However, a growing number of animal experiments and clinical revelations signify that these traits of S. mutans are not restricted to the detriment of dental tissues. These traits can assist S. mutans in evading the immune system within body fluids; they empower S. mutans to adhere not merely to the surface of teeth but also to other tissues such as vascular endothelium; they can additionally trigger inflammatory reactions and inflict damage on various organs, thereby leading to the occurrence of systemic diseases. These traits mostly originate from some correlative findings, lacking a comprehensive evaluation of the impact of S. mutans on systemic diseases. Therefore, this review mainly centers on the dissemination route of S. mutans: "Entering the blood circulation - Occurrence of tissue adhesion - Extensive possible proinflammatory mechanisms - Concentration in individual organs" and analyses the specific effects and possible mechanisms of S. mutans in systemic diseases such as cerebral hemorrhage, inflammatory bowel disease, tumors, and infective endocarditis that have been identified hitherto.

In silico prediction of some pharmacokinetic, safety, biological activity and molecular docking studies of 1-piperazine indole hybrid with nicotinic amide and nicotinic acid and their analogues

Background

In silico predictions are now being utilized in drug discovery and design to assess the physicochemical, pharmacokinetics, and safety properties of compounds at the beginning of the drug discovery process. This early evaluation of the physicochemical, pharmacokinetics, and safety properties of compounds helps the researchers to invest their time and resources only in the best prospective lead compounds by eliminating compounds with a low chance of success.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to explore a promising lead compound designed from 1-piperazine indole hybrid with nicotinic amide and nicotinic acid analogs targeted on Trypanosoma brucei phosphofructokinase for Trypanosomiasis activity by using in silico predictions strategy.

Results

The physicochemical, safety, pharmacokinetic, and biological activity properties of those molecules were predicted by using ADMETlab 2.0, ACD labs Chem Sketch software version 14.0, Molinspiration software, and MolPredictX online tool. Our results indicate that several promising candidates exhibit favorable characteristics. Based on Molinspiration software both nicotinic acid and nicotinic amide derivatives showed higher kinase inhibitor activity and all nicotinic acid derivatives revealed enzyme inhibitors and GPCR ligand activity. According to the MolPredictX online tool, the most biologically active derivatives were NA-4, NA-11, and NAD-11.

Conclusion

Overall, our findings offer valuable insights into the potential efficacy and safety of these compounds. It appears that almost all of the compounds have successfully passed the pharmacokinetic evaluations and integration of nicotinic acid into indole appears to be more beneficial than nicotinic amide regarding certain biological activities.

3D-QSAR, ADMET, and molecular docking studies of aztreonam analogs as E. colis inhibitors

Background

The development of multidrug resistant strains of extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Escherichia coli has become a global problem; therefore, the discovery of new antibacterial agents is the only available solution.

Objective

To improve and propose new compounds with antibacterial activity, the three-dimensional quantitative structure-activity relationship and molecular docking studies were carried out on Aztreonam analogs as E. coli inhibitors in DNA gyrase B.

Method

This study's 3D-Quantitative structure-activity relationship model was created using on the Comparative Molecular Field Analysis and the Comparative Molecular Similarity Indices Analysis. Using the Comparative Molecular Field Analysis (Q 2 = 0.73; R 2 = 0.82), excellent predictability was achieved, and the best Comparative Molecular Similarity Indices Analysis model (Q 2 = 0.88; R 2 = 0.9). The generated model's ability to predict outcomes was assessed through external validation using a test set compound and an applicability domain technique. In this study, the steric, electrostatic, and hydrogen bond acceptor fields played a key role in antibacterial activity.

Results

The results of the molecular docking revealed that the newly generated compound A6 has the highest binding affinity with DNA gyrase B. It forms 10 hydrogen bonds with amino acid residues of Asn104, Asn274, Asn132, Ser70, Ser237, Thr105, Glu273, and 2 salt bridges with amino acid residues of Ser70 and Glu273 and one pi-pi interacting with Gys271 amino acid residue in the binding site of 5G1, and this result was validated by a new assessment method. We created some novel, highly effective DNA gyrase B inhibitors based on the earlier findings, and the most accurate model predicted their inhibitory actions. The ADMET characteristics and pharmacological similarity of these novel inhibitors were also examined.

Conclusion

These findings would be very beneficial in guiding the optimization process for the identification of novel drugs that can address the issue of multiple drug resistance.

A tightly controlled gene induction system that contributes to the study of lethal gene function in Streptococcus mutans

Effective control of gene expression is crucial for understanding gene function in both eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells. While several inducible gene expression systems have been reported in Streptococcus mutans, a conditional pathogen that causes dental caries, the significant non-inducible basal expression in these systems seriously limits their utility, especially when studying lethal gene functions and molecular mechanisms. We introduce a tightly controlled xylose-inducible gene expression system, TC-Xyl, for Streptococcus mutans. Western blot results and fluorescence microscopy analysis indicate that TC-Xyl exhibits an extremely low non-inducible basal expression level and a sufficiently high expression level post-induction. Further, by constructing a mutation in which the only source FtsZ is under the control of TC-Xyl, we preliminarily explored the function of the ftsz gene. We found that FtsZ depletion is lethal to Streptococcus mutans, resulting in abnormal round cell shape and mini cell formation, suggesting FtsZ's role in maintaining cell shape stability.

Lysine lactylation regulates metabolic pathways and biofilm formation in Streptococcus mutans

In eukaryotes, lactate produced during glycolysis is involved in regulating multiple metabolic processes through lysine lactylation (Kla). To explore the potential link between metabolism and Kla in prokaryotes, we investigated the distribution of Kla in the cariogenic bacterium Streptococcus mutans during planktonic growth in low-sugar conditions and in biofilm-promoting, high-sugar conditions. We identified 1869 Kla sites in 469 proteins under these two conditions, with the biofilm growth state showing a greater number of lactylated sites and proteins. Although high sugar increased Kla globally, it reduced lactylation of RNA polymerase subunit α (RpoA) at Lys173. Lactylation at this residue inhibited the synthesis of extracellular polysaccharides, a major constituent of the cariogenic biofilm. The Gcn5-related N-acetyltransferase (GNAT) superfamily enzyme GNAT13 exhibited lysine lactyltransferase activity in cells and lactylated Lys173 in RpoA in vitro. Either GNAT13 overexpression or lactylation of Lys173 in RpoA inhibited biofilm formation. These results provide an overview of the distribution and potential functions of Kla and improve our understanding of the role of lactate in the metabolic regulation of prokaryotes.

Evaluation of the collagen-binding properties and virulence of killed Streptococcus mutans in a silkworm model

Streptococcus mutans, a major pathogen of dental caries, is also known as a causative agent of cardiovascular disease. A 120 kDa collagen-binding protein (Cnm) of S. mutans is an important contributor to the pathogenicity of cardiovascular disease. Although dead bacteria have been detected in cardiovascular specimens by molecular biological methods, the pathogenicity of the bacteria remains unknown. Here, we analyzed the pathogenicity of killed S. mutans by focusing on collagen-binding ability and the effects on silkworms. In live S. mutans, Cnm-positive S. mutans had high collagen-binding activity, while Cnm-negative S. mutans had no such activity. After treatment with killed Cnm-positive S. mutans, amoxicillin-treated bacteria still had collagen-binding ability, while lysozyme-treated bacteria lost this ability. When live and amoxicillin-treated S. mutans strains were administered to silkworms, the survival rates of the silkworms were reduced; this reduction was more pronounced in Cnm-positive S. mutans infection than in Cnm-negative S. mutans infection. However, the administration of any of the lysozyme-treated bacteria did not reduce the survival rate of the silkworms. These results suggest that amoxicillin-killed Cnm-positive S. mutans strains maintain collagen-binding properties and pathogenicity in the silkworm model, and are possibly associated with pathogenicity in cardiovascular diseases.

The Cytoplasmic Domains of Streptococcus mutans Membrane Protein Insertases YidC1 and YidC2 Confer Unique Structural and Functional Attributes to Each Paralog

Integral and membrane-anchored proteins are pivotal to survival and virulence of the dental pathogen, Streptococcus mutans. The bacterial chaperone/insertase, YidC, contributes to membrane protein translocation. Unlike Escherichia coli, most Gram-positive bacteria contain two YidC paralogs. Herein, we evaluated structural features that functionally delineate S. mutans YidC1 and YidC2. Bacterial YidCs contain five transmembrane domains (TMD), two cytoplasmic loops, and a cytoplasmic tail. Because S. mutans YidC1 (SmYidC1) and YidC2 (SmYidC2) cytoplasmic domains (CD) are less well conserved than are TMD, we engineered ectopic expression of the 14 possible YidC1-YidC2 CD domain swap combinations. Growth and stress tolerance of each was compared to control strains ectopically expressing unmodified yidC1 or yidC2. Acid and osmotic stress sensitivity are associated with yidC2 deletion. Sensitivity to excess zinc was further identified as a ΔyidC1 phenotype. Overall, YidC1 tolerated CD substitutions better than YidC2. Preferences toward particular CD combinations suggested potential intramolecular interactions. In silico analysis predicted salt-bridges between C1 and C2 loops of YidC1, and C1 loop and C-terminal tail of YidC2, respectively. Mutation of contributing residues recapitulated ΔyidC1- and ΔyidC2-associated phenotypes. Taken together, this work revealed the importance of cytoplasmic domains in distinct functional attributes of YidC1 and YidC2, and identified key residues involved in interdomain interactions.

Efficacy of true cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) leaf essential oil as a therapeutic alternative for Candida biofilm infections

Objective(s):

The essential oil (EO) extracted from Cinnamomum verum leaves has been used as an antimicrobial agent for centuries. But its antifungal and antibiofilm efficacy is still not clearly studied. The objective of this research was to evaluate the in vitro antifungal and antibiofilm efficacy of C. verum leaf EO against C. albicans, C. tropicalis, and C. dubliniensis and the toxicity of EO using an in vitro model.

Materials and Methods:

The effect of EO vapor was evaluated using a microatmosphere technique. CLSI microdilution assay was employed in determining the Minimum Inhibitory (MIC) and Fungicidal Concentrations (MFC). Killing time was determined using a standard protocol. The effect of EO on established biofilms was quantified and visualized using XTT and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), respectively. Post-exposure intracellular changes were visualized using Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). The toxicological assessment was carried out with the Human Keratinocyte cell line. The chemical composition of EO was evaluated using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS).

Results:

All test strains were susceptible to cinnamon oil vapor. EO exhibited MIC value 1.0 mg/ml and MFC value 2.0 mg/ml against test strains. The killing time of cinnamon oil was 6 hr. Minimum Biofilm Inhibitory Concentration (MBIC₅₀) for established biofilms was <0.2 mg/ml for all test strains. SEM images exhibited cell wall damages, cellular shrinkages, and decreased hyphal formation of Candida. TEM indicated intracellular vacuolation, granulation, and cell wall damages. Cinnamon leaf oil caused no inhibition of HaCaT cells at any concentration tested. Eugenol was the abundant compound in cinnamon oil.

Conclusion:

C. verum EO is a potential alternative anti-Candida agent with minimal toxicity on the human host.

Inhibition of Streptococcus mutans biofilms with bacterial-derived outer membrane vesicles

BACKGROUND

Biofilms are microbial communities surrounded by a self-produced extracellular matrix which protects them from environmental stress. Bacteria within biofilms are 10- to 1000-fold more resistant to antibiotics, making it challenging but imperative to develop new therapeutics that can disperse biofilms and eradicate infection. Gram-negative bacteria produce outer membrane vesicles (OMV) that play critical roles in communication, genetic exchange, cargo delivery, and pathogenesis. We have previously shown that OMVs derived from Burkholderia thailandensis inhibit the growth of drug-sensitive and drug-resistant bacteria and fungi.

RESULTS

Here, we examine the antibiofilm activity of Burkholderia thailandensis OMVs against the oral biofilm-forming pathogen Streptococcus mutans. We demonstrate that OMV treatment reduces biofilm biomass, biofilm integrity, and bacterial cell viability. Both heat-labile and heat-stable components, including 4-hydroxy-3-methyl-2-(2-non-enyl)-quinoline and long-chain rhamnolipid, contribute to the antibiofilm activity of OMVs. When OMVs are co-administered with gentamicin, the efficacy of the antibiotic against S. mutans biofilms is enhanced.

CONCLUSION

These studies indicate that bacterial-derived OMVs are highly effective biological nanoparticles that can inhibit and potentially eradicate biofilms.

Streptococcus mutans induces IgA nephropathy-like glomerulonephritis in rats with severe dental caries

The mechanisms underlying immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN), the most common chronic form of primary glomerulonephritis, remain poorly understood. Streptococcus mutans, a Gram-positive facultatively anaerobic oral bacterium, is a common cause of dental caries. In previous studies, S. mutans isolates that express Cnm protein on their cell surface were frequently detected in IgAN patients. In the present study, inoculation of Cnm-positive S. mutans in the oral cavities of 2-week-old specific-pathogen free Sprague-Dawley rats fed a high-sucrose diet for 32 weeks produced severe dental caries in all rats. Immunohistochemical analyses of the kidneys using IgA- and complement C3-specific antibodies revealed positive staining in the mesangial region. Scanning electron microscopy revealed a wide distribution of electron dense deposits in the mesangial region and periodic acid-Schiff staining demonstrated prominent proliferation of mesangial cells and mesangial matrix. These results suggest that IgAN-like glomerulonephritis was induced in rats with severe dental caries by Cnm-positive S. mutans.

Potential involvement of Streptococcus mutans possessing collagen binding protein Cnm in infective endocarditis

Streptococcus mutans, a significant contributor to dental caries, is occasionally isolated from the blood of patients with infective endocarditis. We previously showed that S. mutans strains expressing collagen-binding protein (Cnm) are present in the oral cavity of approximately 10-20% of humans and that they can effectively invade human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Here, we investigated the potential molecular mechanisms of HUVEC invasion by Cnm-positive S. mutans. The ability of Cnm-positive S. mutans to invade HUVECs was significantly increased by the presence of serum, purified type IV collagen, and fibrinogen (p < 0.001). Microarray analyses of HUVECs infected by Cnm-positive or -negative S. mutans strains identified several transcripts that were differentially upregulated during invasion, including those encoding the small G protein regulatory proteins ARHGEF38 and ARHGAP9. Upregulation of these proteins occurred during invasion only in the presence of serum. Knockdown of ARHGEF38 strongly reduced HUVEC invasion by Cnm-positive S. mutans. In a rat model of infective endocarditis, cardiac endothelial cell damage was more prominent following infection with a Cnm-positive strain compared with a Cnm-negative strain. These results suggest that the type IV collagen-Cnm-ARHGEF38 pathway may play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of infective endocarditis.

Contribution of Severe Dental Caries Induced by Streptococcus mutans to the Pathogenicity of Infective Endocarditis

Streptococcus mutans, a major pathogen of dental caries, is regarded as a causative agent of infective endocarditis (IE), which mainly occurs in patients with underlying heart disease. However, it remains unknown whether severe dental caries that extend to pulp space represent a possible route of infection. In the present study, we evaluated the virulence of S. mutans for IE development using rats with concurrent severe dental caries and heart valve injury. Dental caries was induced in rats through the combination of a caries-inducing diet and the administration of S. mutans into the oral cavity. Then, the heart valves of a subset of rats were injured using a sterile catheter and wire under general anesthesia. The rats were euthanized at various times with various stages of dental caries. The number of teeth affected by dental caries with pulp exposure was increased in the rats in a time-dependent manner. S. mutans was recovered from injured heart tissue, which was mainly observed in rats with higher number of S. mutans bacteria in mandibular bone and a larger number of teeth in which caries extended to pulp. Dental caries was more severe in rats with heart injury than in rats without heart injury. Sequencing analysis targeting 16S rRNA revealed that specific oral bacteria appeared only in rats with heart injury, which may be related to the development of dental caries. Our findings suggest that dental caries caused by the combination of S. mutans infection and sucrose intake may contribute to S. mutans colonization in injured heart tissue.

Repurposing the Streptococcus mutans CRISPR-Cas9 System to Understand Essential Gene Function

A recent genome-wide screen identified ~300 essential or growth-supporting genes in the dental caries pathogen Streptococcus mutans. To be able to study these genes, we built a CRISPR interference tool around the Cas9 nuclease (Cas9Smu) encoded in the S. mutans UA159 genome. Using a xylose-inducible dead Cas9Smu with a constitutively active single-guide RNA (sgRNA), we observed titratable repression of GFP fluorescence that compared favorably to that of Streptococcus pyogenes dCas9 (Cas9Spy). We then investigated sgRNA specificity and proto-spacer adjacent motif (PAM) requirements. Interference by sgRNAs did not occur with double or triple base-pair mutations, or if single base-pair mutations were in the 3' end of the sgRNA. Bioinformatic analysis of >450 S. mutans genomes allied with in vivo assays revealed a similar PAM recognition sequence as Cas9Spy. Next, we created a comprehensive library of sgRNA plasmids that were directed at essential and growth-supporting genes. We discovered growth defects for 77% of the CRISPRi strains expressing sgRNAs. Phenotypes of CRISPRi strains, across several biological pathways, were assessed using fluorescence microscopy. A variety of cell structure anomalies were observed, including segregational instability of the chromosome, enlarged cells, and ovococci-to-rod shape transitions. CRISPRi was also employed to observe how silencing of cell wall glycopolysaccharide biosynthesis (rhamnose-glucose polysaccharide, RGP) affected both cell division and pathogenesis in a wax worm model. The CRISPRi tool and sgRNA library are valuable resources for characterizing essential genes in S. mutans, some of which could prove to be promising therapeutic targets.

Genome Investigation of a Cariogenic Pathogen with Implications in Cardiovascular Diseases

The proportion of people suffering from cardiovascular diseases has risen by 34% in the last 15 years in India. Cardiomyopathy is among the many forms of CVD s present. Infection of heart muscles is the suspected etiological agent for the same. Oral pathogens gaining entry into the bloodstream are responsible for such infections. Streptococcus mutans is an oral pathogen with implications in cardiovascular diseases. Previous studies have shown certain strains of S. mutans are found predominantly within atherosclerotic plaques and extirpated valves. To decipher the genetic differences responsible for endothelial cell invasion, we have sequenced the genome of Streptococcus mutans B14. Pan-genome analysis, search for adhesion proteins through a special algorithm, and protein-protein interactions search through HPIDB have been done. Pan-genome analysis of 187 whole genomes, assemblies revealed 6965 genes in total and 918 genes forming the core gene cluster. Adhesion to the endothelial cell is a critical virulence factor distinguishing virulent and non-virulent strains. Overall, 4% of the total proteins in S. mutans B14 were categorized as adhesion proteins. Protein-protein interaction between putative adhesion proteins and Human extracellular matrix components was predicted, revealing novel interactions. A conserved gene catalyzing the synthesis of branched-chain amino acids in S. mutans B14 shows possible interaction with isoforms of cathepsin protein of the ECM. This genome sequence analysis indicates towards other proteins in the S. mutans genome, which might have a specific role to play in host cell interaction.

Label-Free Electrochemical Detection of S. mutans Exploiting Commercially Fabricated Printed Circuit Board Sensing Electrodes

This paper reports for the first time printed-circuit-board (PCB)-based label-free electrochemical detection of bacteria. The demonstrated immunosensor was implemented on a PCB sensing platform which was designed and fabricated in a standard PCB manufacturing facility. Bacteria were directly captured on the PCB sensing surface using a specific, pre-immobilized antibody. Electrochemical impedance spectra (EIS) were recorded and used to extract the charge transfer resistance (R_ct) value for the different bacteria concentrations under investigation. As a proof-of-concept, Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) bacteria were quantified in a phosphate buffered saline (PBS) buffer, achieving a limit of detection of 10³ CFU/mL. Therefore, the proposed biosensor is an attractive candidate for the development of a simple and robust point-of-care diagnostic platform for bacteria identification, exhibiting good sensitivity, high selectivity, and excellent reproducibility.

Association between Alzheimer's Disease and Oral and Gut Microbiota: Are Pore Forming Proteins the Missing Link?

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative condition affecting millions of people worldwide. It is associated with cerebral amyloid-β (Aβ) plaque deposition in the brain, synaptic disconnection, and subsequent progressive neuronal death. Although considerable progress has been made to elucidate the pathogenesis of AD, the specific causes of the disease remain highly unknown. Recent research has suggested a potential association between certain infectious diseases and dementia, either directly due to bacterial brain invasion and toxin production, or indirectly by modulating the immune response. Therefore, in the present review we focus on the emerging issues of bacterial infection and AD, including the existence of antimicrobial peptides having pore-forming properties that act in a similar way to pores formed by Aβ in a variety of cell membranes. Special focus is placed on oral bacteria and biofilms, and on the potential mechanisms associating bacterial infection and toxin production in AD. The role of bacterial outer membrane vesicles on the transport and delivery of toxins as well as porins to the brain is also discussed. Aβ has shown to possess antimicrobial activity against several bacteria, and therefore could be upregulated as a response to bacteria and bacterial toxins in the brain. Although further research is needed, we believe that the control of biofilm-mediated diseases could be an important potential prevention mechanism for AD development.

Developing tools for evaluating inoculation methods of biocontrol Streptomyces sp. strains into grapevine plants

The endophytic Streptomyces sp. VV/E1, and rhizosphere Streptomyces sp. VV/R4 strains, isolated from grapevine plants were shown in a previous work to reduce the infection rate of fungal pathogens involved in young grapevine decline. In this study we cloned fragments from randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD), and developed two stably diagnostic sequence-characterized amplified region (SCAR) markers of 182 and 160 bp for the VV/E1 and VV/R4 strains, respectively. The SCAR markers were not found in another 50 actinobacterial strains isolated from grapevine plants. Quantitative real-time PCR protocols based on the amplification of these SCAR markers were used for the detection and quantification of both strains in plant material. These strains were applied on young potted plants using two methods: perforation of the rootstock followed by injection of the microorganisms or soaking the root system in a bacterial suspension. Both methods were combined with a booster treatment by direct addition of a bacterial suspension to the soil near the root system. Analysis of uprooted plants showed that those inoculated by injection exhibited the highest rate of colonization. In contrast, direct addition of either strain to the soil did not lead to reliable colonization. This study has developed molecular tools for analyzing different methods for inoculating grapevine plants with selected Streptomyces sp. strains which protect them from fungal infections that enter through their root system. These tools are of great applied interest since they could easily be established in nurseries to produce grafted grapevine plants that are protected against fungal pathogens. Finally, this methodology might also be applied to other vascular plants for their colonization with beneficial biological control agents.

Influence of excess branched-chain amino acid uptake by Streptococcus mutans in human host cells

Oral streptococci, including cariogenic bacterium Streptococcus mutans, comprise a large percentage of human supragingival plaque, which contacts both tooth surfaces and gingiva. Eukaryotic cells are able to take up macromolecules and particles, including bacteria, by endocytosis. Increasing evidence indicates endocytosis may be used as an entry process by bacteria. We hypothesized that some endocytosed bacteria might survive and obtain nutrients, such as amino acids, until they are killed. To verify this hypothesis, we focused on bacterial utilization of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs; isoleucine, leucine and valine) in host cells. A branched-chain aminotransferase, IlvE (EC 2.6.1.42), has been suggested to play an important role in internal synthesis of BCAAs in S. mutans UA159. Therefore, we constructed an ilvE-deficient S. mutans 109c strain and confirmed that it had similar growth behavior as reported previously. 14C radioactive leucine uptake assays showed that ilvE-deficient S. mutans took up more leucine both inside and outside of host cells. We further clarified that a relative decrease of BCAAs in host cells caused enhanced endocytic and autophagic activity. In conclusion, S. mutans is endocytosed by host cells and may survive and obtain nutrients, such as BCAAs, inside the cells, which might affect cellular functions of host cells.

Contribution of Streptococcus mutans Strains with Collagen-Binding Proteins in the Presence of Serum to the Pathogenesis of Infective Endocarditis

Streptococcus mutans, a major pathogen of dental caries, is considered one of the causative agents of infective endocarditis (IE). Recently, bacterial DNA encoding 120-kDa cell surface collagen-binding proteins (CBPs) has frequently been detected from S. mutans-positive IE patients. In addition, some of the CBP-positive S. mutans strains lacked a 190-kDa protein antigen (PA), whose absence strengthened the adhesion to and invasion of endothelial cells. The interaction between pathogenic bacteria and serum or plasma is considered an important virulence factor in developing systemic diseases; thus, we decided to analyze the pathogenesis of IE induced by S. mutans strains with different patterns of CBP and PA expression by focusing on the interaction with serum or plasma. CBP-positive (CBP⁺)/PA-negative (PA^-) strains showed prominent aggregation in the presence of human serum or plasma, which was significantly greater than that with CBP⁺/PA-positive (PA⁺) and CBP-negative (CBP^-)/PA+ strains. Aggregation of CBP⁺/PA^- strains was also observed in the presence of a high concentration of type IV collagen, a major extracellular matrix protein in serum. In addition, aggregation of CBP⁺/PA^- strains was drastically reduced when serum complement was inactivated. Furthermore, an ex vivo adherence model and an in vivo rat model of IE showed that extirpated heart valves infected with CBP⁺/PA^- strains displayed prominent bacterial mass formation, which was not observed following infection with CBP⁺/PA⁺ and CBP^-/PA⁺ strains. These results suggest that CBP⁺/PA^-S. mutans strains utilize serum to contribute to their pathogenicity in IE.

Novel method for the depletion of cariogenic bacteria using dextranomer microspheres

Streptococcus mutans is recognized as one of the key contributors to the dysbiotic state that results in dental caries. Existing treatment strategies reduce the incidence of tooth decay, but they also eliminate both the cariogenic and beneficial microbes. Here we introduce a novel treatment alternative using Sephadex, cross-linked dextranomer microspheres (DMs), typically used for gel filtration chromatography. In addition DM beads can be used for affinity purification of glucosyltransferases (GTFs) from S. mutans. In this study we take advantage of the native pathogenic mechanisms used by S. mutans to adhere, form a biofilm and induce dental caries through the expression of surface-associated GTFs. We demonstrate that planktonic and biofilm-grown (adhered to hydroxyapatite-coated pegs to mimic the tooth surface) S. mutans, specifically and competitively attach to DMs. Further investigation demonstrated that DMs are a specific affinity resin for S. mutans and other cariogenic/pathogenic oral streptococci, whereas other commensal and probiotic strains failed to readily adhere to DMs. Using antimicrobial cargo loaded into the DM lumen, we demonstrate that when in co-culture with non-binding to even modestly binding commensal species, S. mutans was selectively killed. This proof of concept study introduces a novel means to safely and effectively reduce the pool of S. mutans and other pathogenic streptococci in the oral cavity with limited disturbance of the necessary commensal (healthy) microbiota when compared with current oral healthcare products.

Isolation and Typing of Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus from Caries-active Subjects

Background

Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus are main etiological agents of dental caries.

Aim

The aim of the study was to isolate, identify, characterize, and determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of S. mutans and S. sobrinus from caries-active subjects.

Materials and Methods

Sixty-five plaque samples were collected from caries-active subjects aged between 35 and 44 years, processed and cultured on mitis salivarius bacitracin agar. All the bacterial isolates were subjected to morphotyping and the suspected colonies were identified by 16S rDNA sequencing. The S. mutans and S. sobrinus strains were characterized by biotyping and phylogenetic analysis. The MIC of ampicillin and erythromycin was determined by microtiter plate method.

Results

Of the study population, 41 isolates displayed typical colony morphologies of S. mutans and S. sobrinus. The 16S rDNA sequencing results revealed that 36 isolates were S. mutans and 5 isolates were S. sobrinus. The biotyping of these isolates demonstrated three biotypes, namely, biotype I (n = 35), biotype III (n = 1), and biotype IV (n = 2). However, 3 isolates exhibited variant biotypes. The phylogenetic analysis revealed that the clinical strains of S. mutans and S. sobrinus clustered independently along with respective reference strains. The average MIC of ampicillin and erythromycin against S. mutans and S. sobrinus was 0.047 μg/ml and 0.39 μg/ml, respectively.

Conclusion

The 16S rDNA sequencing was an impeccable method for S. mutans and S. sobrinus identification when compared with morphotyping and biotyping methods. The study also suggested that nonspecific bacteria might be involved in caries formation.

Efficacy of Antibiotic Prophylactic Regimens for the Prevention of Bacterial Endocarditis of Oral Origin

Despite the controversy about the risk of individuals developing bacterial endocarditis of oral origin, numerous Expert Committees in different countries continue to publish prophylactic regimens for the prevention of bacterial endocarditis secondary to dental procedures. In this paper, we analyze the efficacy of antibiotic prophylaxis in the prevention of bacteremia following dental manipulations and in the prevention of bacterial endocarditis (in both animal models and human studies). Antibiotic prophylaxis guidelines remain consensus-based, and there is scientific evidence of the efficacy of amoxicillin in the prevention of bacteremia following dental procedures, although the results reported do not confirm the efficacy of other recommended antibiotics. The majority of studies on experimental models of bacterial endocarditis have verified the efficacy of antibiotics administered after the induction of bacteremia, confirming the efficacy of antibiotic prophylaxis in later stages in the development of bacterial endocarditis. There is no scientific evidence that prophylaxis with penicillin is effective in reducing bacterial endocarditis secondary to dental procedures in patients considered to be "at risk". It has been suggested that there is a high risk of severe allergic reactions secondary to prophylactically administered penicillins, but, in reality, very few cases have been reported in the literature. It has been demonstrated that antibiotic prophylaxis could contribute to the development of bacterial resistance, but only after the administration of several consecutive doses. Future research on bacterial endocarditis prophylactic protocols should involve the re-evaluation of the time and route of administration of antibiotic prophylaxis, and a search for alternative antimicrobials.

Intravenous amoxicillin/clavulanate for the prevention of bacteraemia following dental procedures: a randomized clinical trial

OBJECTIVES

Although controversy exists regarding the efficacy of antibiotic prophylaxis for patients at risk of infective endocarditis, expert committees continue to publish recommendations for antibiotic prophylaxis regimens. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of four antimicrobial regimens for the prevention of bacteraemia following dental extractions.

METHODS

The study population included 266 adults requiring dental extractions who were randomly assigned to the following five groups: control (no prophylaxis); 1000/200 mg of amoxicillin/clavulanate intravenously; 2 g of amoxicillin by mouth; 600 mg of clindamycin by mouth; and 600 mg of azithromycin by mouth. Venous blood samples were collected from each patient at baseline and at 30 s, 15 min and 1 h after dental extractions. Samples were inoculated into BACTEC Plus culture bottles and processed in the BACTEC 9240. Conventional microbiological techniques were used for subcultures and further identification of the isolated bacteria. The trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov with ID number NCT02115776.

RESULTS

The incidence of bacteraemia in the control, amoxicillin/clavulanate, amoxicillin, clindamycin and azithromycin groups was: 96%, 0%, 50%, 87% and 81%, respectively, at 30 s; 65%, 0%, 10%, 65% and 49% at 15 min; and 18%, 0%, 4%, 19% and 18% at 1 h. Streptococci were the most frequently identified bacteria. The percentage of positive blood cultures at 30 s post-extraction was lower in the amoxicillin/clavulanate group than in the amoxicillin group (P < 0.001). The incidence of bacteraemia in the clindamycin group was similar to that in the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

Bacteraemia following dental extractions was undetectable with amoxicillin/clavulanate prophylaxis. Alternative antimicrobial regimens should be sought for patients allergic to the β-lactams.

Heterologous expression of Streptococcus mutans Cnm in Lactococcus lactis promotes intracellular invasion, adhesion to human cardiac tissues and virulence

In S. mutans, the expression of the surface glycoprotein Cnm mediates binding to extracellular matrix proteins, endothelial cell invasion and virulence in the Galleria mellonella invertebrate model. To further characterize Cnm as a virulence factor, the cnm gene from S. mutans strain OMZ175 was expressed in the non-pathogenic Lactococcus lactis NZ9800 using a nisin-inducible system. Despite the absence of the machinery necessary for Cnm glycosylation, Western blot and immunofluorescence microscopy analyses demonstrated that Cnm was effectively expressed and translocated to the cell wall of L. lactis. Similar to S. mutans, expression of Cnm in L. lactis enabled robust binding to collagen and laminin, invasion of human coronary artery endothelial cells and increased virulence in G. mellonella. Using an ex vivo human heart tissue colonization model, we showed that Cnm-positive strains of either S. mutans or L. lactis outcompete their Cnm-negative counterparts for tissue colonization. Finally, Cnm expression facilitated L. lactis adhesion and colonization in a rabbit model of infective endocarditis. Collectively, our results provide unequivocal evidence that binding to extracellular matrices mediated by Cnm is an important virulence attribute of S. mutans and confirm the usefulness of the L. lactis heterologous system for further characterization of bacterial virulence factors.

Invasive Streptococcus mutans induces inflammatory cytokine production in human aortic endothelial cells via regulation of intracellular toll-like receptor 2 and nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain 2

Streptococcus mutans, the primary etiologic agent of dental caries, can gain access to the bloodstream and has been associated with cardiovascular disease. However, the roles of S. mutans in inflammation in cardiovascular disease remain unclear. The aim of this study was to examine cytokine production induced by S. mutans in human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs) and to evaluate the participation of toll-like receptors (TLRs) and cytoplasmic nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain (NOD) -like receptors in HAECs. Cytokine production by HAECs was determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, and the expression of TLRs and NOD-like receptors was evaluated by real-time polymerase chain reaction, flow cytometry and immunocytochemistry. The involvement of TLR2 and NOD2 in cytokine production by invaded HAECs was examined using RNA interference. The invasion efficiencies of S. mutans strains were evaluated by means of antibiotic protection assays. Five of six strains of S. mutans of various serotypes induced interleukin-6, interleukin-8 and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 production by HAECs. All S. mutans strains upregulated TLR2 and NOD2 mRNA levels in HAECs. Streptococcus mutans Xc upregulated the intracellular TLR2 and NOD2 protein levels in HAECs. Silencing of the TLR2 and NOD2 genes in HAECs invaded by S. mutans Xc led to a reduction in interleukin-6, interleukin-8 and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 production. Cytokine production induced by invasive S. mutans via intracellular TLR2 and NOD2 in HAECs may be associated with inflammation in cardiovascular disease.

Pluronics-Formulated Farnesol Promotes Efficient Killing and Demonstrates Novel Interactions with Streptococcus mutans Biofilms

Streptococcus mutans is the primary causative agent of dental caries, one of the most prevalent diseases in the United States. Previously published studies have shown that Pluronic-based tooth-binding micelles carrying hydrophobic antimicrobials are extremely effective at inhibiting S. mutans biofilm growth on hydroxyapatite (HA). Interestingly, these studies also demonstrated that non-binding micelles (NBM) carrying antimicrobial also had an inhibitory effect, leading to the hypothesis that the Pluronic micelles themselves may interact with the biofilm. To explore this potential interaction, three different S. mutans strains were each grown as biofilm in tissue culture plates, either untreated or supplemented with NBM alone (P85), NBM containing farnesol (P85F), or farnesol alone (F). In each tested S. mutans strain, biomass was significantly decreased (SNK test, p < 0.05) in the P85F and F biofilms relative to untreated biofilms. Furthermore, the P85F biofilms formed large towers containing dead cells that were not observed in the other treatment conditions. Tower formation appeared to be specific to formulated farnesol, as this phenomenon was not observed in S. mutans biofilms grown with NBM containing triclosan. Parallel CFU/ml determinations revealed that biofilm growth in the presence of P85F resulted in a 3-log reduction in viability, whereas F decreased viability by less than 1-log. Wild-type biofilms grown in the absence of sucrose or gtfBC mutant biofilms grown in the presence of sucrose did not form towers. However, increased cell killing with P85F was still observed, suggesting that cell killing is independent of tower formation. Finally, repeated treatment of pre-formed biofilms with P85F was able to elicit a 2-log reduction in viability, whereas parallel treatment with F alone only reduced viability by 0.5-log. Collectively, these results suggest that Pluronics-formulated farnesol induces alterations in biofilm architecture, presumably via interaction with the sucrose-dependent biofilm matrix, and may be a viable treatment option in the prevention and treatment of pathogenic plaque biofilms.

Binding forces of Streptococcus mutans P1 adhesin

Streptococcus mutans is a Gram-positive oral bacterium that is a primary etiological agent associated with human dental caries. In the oral cavity, S. mutans adheres to immobilized salivary agglutinin (SAG) contained within the salivary pellicle on the tooth surface. Binding to SAG is mediated by cell surface P1, a multifunctional adhesin that is also capable of interacting with extracellular matrix proteins. This may be of particular importance outside of the oral cavity as S. mutans has been associated with infective endocarditis and detected in atherosclerotic plaque. Despite the biomedical importance of P1, its binding mechanisms are not completely understood. In this work, we use atomic force microscopy-based single-molecule and single-cell force spectroscopy to quantify the nanoscale forces driving P1-mediated adhesion. Single-molecule experiments show that full-length P1, as well as fragments containing only the P1 globular head or C-terminal region, binds to SAG with relatively weak forces (∼50 pN). In contrast, single-cell analyses reveal that adhesion of a single S. mutans cell to SAG is mediated by strong (∼500 pN) and long-range (up to 6000 nm) forces. This is likely due to the binding of multiple P1 adhesins to self-associated gp340 glycoproteins. Such a cooperative, long-range character of the S. mutans-SAG interaction would therefore dramatically increase the strength and duration of cell adhesion. We also demonstrate, at single-molecule and single-cell levels, the interaction of P1 with fibronectin and collagen, as well as with hydrophobic, but not hydrophilic, substrates. The binding mechanism (strong forces, cooperativity, broad specificity) of P1 provides a molecular basis for its multifunctional adhesion properties. Our methodology represents a valuable approach to probe the binding forces of bacterial adhesins and offers a tractable methodology to assess anti-adhesion therapy.

Detection of Identical Isolates of Enterococcus faecalis from the Blood and Oral Mucosa in a Patient with Infective Endocarditis

The detection of infective endocarditis (IE) of oral origin has been previously discussed. However, there are few reports confirming this infection using molecular biological techniques. We herein describe the case of a 67-year-old man who developed IE. Blood culture samples and strains obtained from the gingival and buccal mucosa showed 100% identity to Enterococcus faecalis JCM 5803 on sequencing of 16S rRNA gene fragments. A random amplification of polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis showed the same pattern for these samples, thus confirming the identity of E. faecalis isolates in the blood and oral mucosa. Our observations provide novel information regarding the level of identity between IE pathogens and oral bacteria.

Flavonoids inhibit iNOS production via mitogen activated proteins in lipoteichoic acid stimulated cardiomyoblasts

Infective endocarditis is caused by oral commensal bacteria which are important etiologic agents in this disease and can induce release of nitric oxide (NO), promoting an inflammatory response in the endocardium. In this study, we investigated the properties of kaempherol, epigallocatechin, apigenin, and naringin in embryonic mouse heart cells (H9c2) treated with lipoteichoic acid (LTA) obtained from Streptococcus sanguinis. NO production was measured with the Griess method. Expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) was detected by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). In addition, western blot assays and immunofluorescence staining were used to assess translocation of nuclear factor kappa beta (NF-κB), degradation of IκB, and activity of the mitogen activated protein (MAP) kinases extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK 1/2), p38, and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK). And the effects of these flavonoids on cell viability were also assessed. Our results showed that flavonoids blocked activation of ERK, JNK, and p38 in cardiomyocytes treated with LTA. Moreover, the flavonoids showed no cytotoxic effects and blocked NF-κB translocation and IκB degradation and inhibited LTA-induced NF-κB promoter activity, iNOS expression and NO production. In conclusion these effects are consistent with some of the observed anti-inflammatory properties of other flavonoids.

Molecular diagnosis of bacterial infective endocarditis in tabriz, azerbaijan

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to analyze a PCR based approach for detection of infective endocarditis in Azerbaijan.

METHODS

Ten aortic valves, 8 mitral valves and 2 tricuspid valves, were analyzed for the presence of bacterial infective endocarditis using Gram staining, culture and PCR methods.

RESULTS

Of the 20 valves, 5 and 4 cases were positive by Gram staining and culture assay, respectively. Bacterial DNA was positive in 12 of the 20 valves (60%) by broad-spectrum PCR. Direct sequencing for species identification was possible in 10 cases.

CONCLUSION

PCR and direct molecular identification of the etiological agents responsible for infective endocarditis may enable specific treatment to begin at an earlier phase of the disease.

Isolation and Molecular Identification of Streptomyces spp. with Antibacterial Activity from Northwest of Iran

INTRODUCTION

Streptomyces are a group of prokaryotes that are usually found in all types of ecosystems including water and soil. This group of bacteria is noteworthy as antibiotic producers; so the isolation and characterization of new species seemed to be crucial in introduction of markedly favorable antibiotics. Therefore, in this study we aim to isolate and characterize novel strains of Streptomyces with high antibiotic production capability.

METHODS

To achieve this goal, from 140 isolates collected throughout northwest of Iran, 12 selected Streptomyces isolates which exhibited high antibacterial activity against pathogenic bacteria were subjected to PCR reaction for identification via 16S rDNA gene and random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) pattern analysis.

RESULTS

Analysis of morphological and biochemical characteristics and the 16S rDNA gene sequence indicated that all 12 selected isolates belonged to the genus Streptomyces. Moreover, screening of the isolates with regard to their antimicrobial activity against indicator bacteria as well as their classification using RAPD analysis revealed that G614C1 and K36C5 isolates have considerable antimicrobial activity and high similarity to Streptomyces coelicolor and Sreptomyces albogriseolus, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Since many isolates in this study showed inhibitory effects against pathogenic bacteria, soil of northwest of Iran could be used as a rich source to be explored for novel Streptomyces strains with high potency of antibiotic production.

Complementation of the Fo c subunit of Escherichia coli with that of Streptococcus mutans and properties of the hybrid FoF1 ATP synthase

The c subunit of Streptococcus mutans ATP synthase (FoF1) is functionally exchangeable with that of Escherichia coli, since E. coli with a hybrid FoF1 is able to grow on minimum succinate medium through oxidative phosphorylation. E. coli F1 bound to the hybrid Fo with the S. mutans c subunit showed N,N'-dicyclohexylcarbodiimide-sensitive ATPase activity similar to that of E. coli FoF1. Thus, the S. mutans c subunit assembled into a functional Fo together with the E. coli a and b subunits, forming a normal F1 binding site. Although the H(+) pathway should be functional, as was suggested by the growth on minimum succinate medium, ATP-driven H(+) transport could not be detected with inverted membrane vesicles in vitro. This observation is partly explained by the presence of an acidic residue (Glu-20) in the first transmembrane helix of the S. mutans c subunit, since the site-directed mutant carrying Gln-20 partly recovered the ATP-driven H(+) transport. Since S. mutans is recognized to be a primary etiological agent of human dental caries and is one cause of bacterial endocarditis, our system that expresses hybrid Fo with the S. mutans c subunit would be helpful to find antibiotics and chemicals specifically directed to S. mutans.

Evaluation of the strain identity between isolates from caries lesions and root canals in early childhood caries cases

Early childhood caries (ECC) has become a serious medical problem worldwide in the last decade. Bacterial microflora of the dental plaque and oral cavity is considered an important factor in the formation and progression of dental caries. The aim of this study was strain typing and comparison of bacterial isolates retrieved from caries lesions and root canal contents of the same teeth. In total, 18 pairs of presumptive streptococci and lactobacilli retrieved from dental caries and root canals isolated from ECC-affected children, were selected on the basis of biotyping results and rep-PCR fingerprinting with (GTG)5 primer. Strain typing was further done using the RiboPrinter microbial characterization system (DuPont Qualicon). The automated ribotyping determined 14 pairs of the strains (77.8 %) to be identical. The results obtained confirmed that identical bacterial strains colonized both the decayed dental surface and the necrotic content of the dental pulp cavity during the cariogenesis. Our finding supports the assumption that bacteria could penetrate through the damaged dental surface to the inner parts of the teeth.

Multilocus sequence typing of Streptococcus mutans strains with the cbm gene encoding a novel collagen-binding protein

OBJECTIVE

Streptococcus mutans, an oral pathogen associated with infective endocarditis (IE), possesses two genes encoding collagen-binding proteins, namely cnm and cbm. In this study, we used multilocus sequence typing (MLST) of S. mutans with the cbm gene.

DESIGN

Forty-five S. mutans strains including 15 strains with the cnm gene, 15 strains with the cbm gene, and 15 strains without these two genes were analysed by MLST. In addition, the collagen-binding properties as well as the abilities to adhere to and invade human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) were also evaluated for all strains.

RESULTS

In the groups of cnm-positive and cbm-positive strains, all properties, including collagen binding, adhesion, and invasion were significantly greater than those of the cnm-cbm-negative group. Moreover, MLST revealed three clonal complexes of S. mutans possessing the cbm gene. These three clones showed no close relatedness with clones of strains containing the cnm gene. Among three clones harbouring the cbm gene, two clones belong to serotype k, and appeared to be associated with the pathogenesis of IE due to their strong collagen binding and relatively enhanced abilities to adhere to and invade endothelial cells. However, such properties were relatively weak in the other non-serotype k clone possessing the cbm gene.

CONCLUSIONS

MLST indicated a difference in evolution between S. mutans strains with the cbm gene and those with the cnm gene. In addition, this technique also suggested the importance of cbm-positive S. mutans clones relative to the pathogenesis of IE.

Potential involvement of collagen-binding proteins of Streptococcus mutans in infective endocarditis

OBJECTIVE

Streptococcus mutans, a major pathogen of dental caries, is considered to be one of the causative agents of infective endocarditis (IE). Two types of cell surface collagen-binding proteins, Cnm and Cbm, have been identified in the organism. The aim of the present study was to analyze these proteins as possible etiologic factors for IE.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The binding activities of S. mutans strains to collagen types I, III, and IV were analyzed relative to the presence of Cnm and Cbm, as were their adhesion and invasion properties with human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC). In addition, distributions of the genes encoding Cnm and Cbm in S. mutans-positive heart valve specimens extirpated from IE and non-IE patients were analyzed by PCR.

RESULTS

Most of the Cbm-positive strains showed higher levels of binding to type I collagen as well as higher rates of adhesion and invasion with HUVEC as compared to the Cnm-positive strains. Furthermore, the gene encoding Cbm was detected significantly more frequently in heart valve specimens from IE patients than from non-IE patients.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that the collagen-binding protein Cbm of S. mutans may be one of the potential important factor associated with the pathogenesis of IE.

Surface lipoprotein PpiA of Streptococcus mutans suppresses scavenger receptor MARCO-dependent phagocytosis by macrophages

Streptococcus mutans is associated with the initiation and progression of human dental caries and is occasionally isolated from the blood of patients with bacteremia and infective endocarditis. For the pathogen to survive in the infected host, surface lipoproteins of S. mutans are likely to play important roles in interactions with the innate immune system. To clarify the role that a putative lipoprotein, peptidyl-prolyl cis/trans-isomerase (PpiA), of S. mutans plays in the macrophage response, we investigated the response of THP-1-derived macrophages to S. mutans challenge. The deletion of the gene encoding Lgt eliminated PpiA on the cell surface of S. mutans, which implies that PpiA is a lipoprotein that is lipid anchored in the cell membrane by Lgt. Human and murine peritoneal macrophages both showed higher phagocytic activities for the ppiA and lgt mutants than the wild type, which indicates that the presence of PpiA reduces S. mutans phagocytosis. In addition, infection with S. mutans markedly induced mRNAs of macrophage receptor with collagenous structure (MARCO) and scavenger receptor A (SR-A) in human macrophages. In particular, transcriptional and translational levels of MARCO in human macrophages infected with the ppiA mutant were higher than those in macrophages infected with the wild type. Phagocytosis of S. mutans by human macrophages markedly decreased after treatment with anti-MARCO IgG. These results demonstrate that the S. mutans lipoprotein PpiA contributes to suppression of MARCO-mediated phagocytosis of this bacterium by macrophages.

Competence-dependent endogenous DNA rearrangement and uptake of extracellular DNA give a natural variant of Streptococcus mutans without biofilm formation

The production of water-insoluble glucan (WIG) enables Streptococcus mutans to survive and persist in the oral niche. WIG is produced from sucrose by glucosyltransferase encoded tandemly by the highly homologous gtfB and gtfC genes. Conversely, a single hybrid gene from the endogenous recombination of gtfB and gtfC is easily generated using RecA, resulting in S. mutans UA159 WIG- (rate of ∼1.0×10(-3)). The pneumococcus recA gene is regulated as a late competence gene. comX gene mutations did not lead to the appearance of WIG- cells. The biofilm collected from the flow cell had more WIG- cells than among the planktonic cells. Among the planktonic cells, WIG- cells appeared after 16 h and increased ∼10-fold after 32 h of cultivation, suggesting an increase in planktonic WIG- cells after longer culture. The strain may be derived from the biofilm environment. In coculture with donor WIG+ and recipient WIG- cells, the recipient cells reverted to WIG+ and acquired an intact gtfBC region from the environment, indicating that the uptake of extracellular DNA resulted in the phenotypic change. Here we demonstrate that endogenous DNA rearrangement and uptake of extracellular DNA generate WIG- cells and that both are induced by the same signal transducer, the com system. Our findings may help in understanding how S. mutans can adapt to the oral environment and may explain the evolution of S. mutans.

Chewing-stick practices using plants with anti-streptococcal activity in a ugandan rural community

Background: The high dental disease burden in developing countries has created a need to explore and develop cheap and accessible methods of dental disease prevention. Traditional toothbrushes (chewing-sticks) prepared from specific plants have been used for dental hygiene for generations. When properly used, chewing-sticks may be as effective as synthetic toothbrushes. This study set out to describe traditional chewing-stick practices in a Ugandan rural community, and evaluate the antibacterial activity of two most commonly used plants. Methods: Interviews were done to identify chewing-stick plants and obtain socio-cultural information relating to the practice in two villages in rural Uganda. Field walks were done to pick and voucher the plants, for taxonomical identification and storage. For the two most reported plants, aqueous extracts were prepared and tested for antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans using the agar-well diffusion method. Results: Of the 21 key informants interviewed, all were using or had used chewing-sticks in the past. A total of eight plants were identified as sources of chewing-sticks, with Rhus vulgaris and Lantana trifolia most commonly mentioned. Chewing-sticks were preferred over synthetic tooth brushes because they were less likely to traumatize the gums. Their use has been limited of recent due to scarcity of some plants. R. vulgaris and L. trifolia aqueous extracts showed antibacterial activity against S. mutans with mean diameters of inhibition of 24.33 ± 0.58 and 14.17 ± 0.29 mm on Blood agar respectively, compared to benzyl penicillin control 30.67 ± 0.29 mm. Conclusion: R. vulgaris and L. trifolia are the most common sources of chewing-sticks for cleaning teeth in this community. The plants contain compounds that are active against S. mutans. These plants merit further studies as they are possible sources of cheap dental health care for the rural poor.