Properties of <i>Streptococcus sanguinis</i> Glucans Formed Under Various Conditions

Abstract

The aim of our study was to determine whether the structure of glucans formed by glucosyltransferase from Streptococcus sanguinis (GtfSs) on a surface differ from those formed in solution and to explore the effects of antiserum to Gtfs, control normal rabbit serum, starch hydrolysates (STH) and dextran on S. sanguinis (GtfSs) glucan. Linkage analyses showed that solution–formed glucans are predominantly α–1,6–linked and have a small amount of α–1,3–linked glucose. Surface–formed glucans have enhanced susceptibility to mutanase. Solution– and surface–formed glucans made in the presence or absence of sera, STH, and dextran contain linkages which differ in both amount and type from control glucans. The GtfSs enzyme in solution exposed to antiserum behaves as if it is adsorbed to a surface. Binding of Streptococcus mutans GS–5 and Actinomyces viscosus OMZ105E (Ny1) to S. sanguinis glucan differs if the glucan is formed in the presence of antiserum. The information could help to define the role of glucans in the formation of pellicle, colonization of tooth surfaces and the accumulation of dental plaque.

Two-Component System VicRK Regulates Functions Associated with Establishment of Streptococcus sanguinis in Biofilms

“…Roles of the TCS VicRK in regulating synthesis of and interaction with extracellular polysaccharides were not previously investigated in S. sanguinis or S. gordonii. S. sanguinis expresses gtfP for the synthesis of soluble glucan, which likely has different biological functions in biofilm ecology (26,27). Although the presence of sucrose, the unique substrate for the synthesis of glucan, is necessary for S. sanguinis biofilm formation in vitro (21,32), the mechanisms of S. sanguinis interactions with the extracellular glucan are unknown, but they might involve proteins with affinity to glucan.…”

“…S. sanguinis does not efficiently produce a stable extracellular matrix of glucan for biofilm formation (26,27). On the other hand, release of genomic DNA appears to be important for S. sanguinis biofilm formation (11,21).…”

Streptococcus Sanguinis Biofilm Formation & Interaction with Oral Pathogens

“…In S. sanguinis , glucans are the main biofilm polymer formed in the presence of sucrose and are composed mostly of α-1,6-linked and α-1,3-linked glucose [ 57 ]. The linkage of glucans made in the presence of sera, starch hydrolysates and dextran are different from that of control glucan [ 57 ]. The biofilm formation ability of S. sanguinis differs dramatically depending on the growth medium used [ 58 ].…”

“…These studies suggest that gtfP is a key gene for glucan synthesis and biofilm formation in S. sanguinis . However, because glucan production is affected by media composition [ 57 , 58 ], other genes may participate in glucan biosynthesis and biofilm formation.…”

Comparative clinical data for gingivitis treatment using gels from Ocimum sanctum (Tulsi) and chlorhexidine (CHX)

“…There is increasing inclination towards biofilm properties and microbial colonies [ 3 ]. Different stages of dental biofilm formation are (a) absorption of bacterial molecules to host tooth surface [ 4 - 6 ]; (b) transport of bacteria to tooth surface [ 7 - 9 ]; (c) adherence of late colonies to early colonies [ 10 - 12 ]; (d) multiplication of the attached organisms [ 13 - 18 ] and (e) active detachment [ 19 , 20 ]. Gingivitis is the inflammation of gingiva without apical migration of junction epithelium [ 21 ].…”