Interaction between surface protein antigens of Streptococcus mutans and human salivary components

Abstract

The potential involvement of surface antigens (Ags) I/II and III of Streptococcus mutans in its adherence to salivary pellicle-coated tooth surfaces was investigated. The binding of radiolabelled Ag I/II to hydroxyapatite was increased by pretreating the mineral with human parotid saliva, and binding was maintained in the continuous presence of saliva. Binding of Ag III to hydroxyapatite was inhibited by pretreatment with, or in the presence of, saliva. Various aminohexoses, and also tris, inhibited the binding of Ag I/II. When Ags I/II and III were tested for their ability to bind to salivary components separated by SDS gel electrophoresis, several proteins capable of binding Ag I/II were identified, notably 2 proteins of apparent relative molecular mass 28,000 and 38,000. Analysis of these proteins, isolated by micro-preparative electrophoresis, indicated high proportions of proline, glycine, and glutamic acid, and overall compositions similar to basic proline-rich salivary proteins.

Intranasal co-delivery of IL-6 gene enhances the immunogenicity of anti-caries DNA vaccine

“…High numbers of cariogenic bacteria is a pathogenic factor, and Streptococcus mutans (S mutans) is a primary microorganismal etiologic agent of dental caries. The cell surface protein PAc is a S mutans virulence factor because it is involved in the initial adherence of the organism to tooth surfaces [5,6] . The A-region and P-region have been shown to be important to the function and immunogenicity of the PAc protein [6,7] .…”

Associations of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-1 receptor antagonist, and IL-10 with dental caries

“…The familial nature and genetic transmission of dental caries have been confirmed in genetic association studies, genome-wide linkage scans, and expression profiles (10)(11)(12). Cytokines are important in immunity and inflammation (11); however, their role in the pathogenesis of dental caries is not clear.…”

“…mutans was reported to be the primary factor responsible for dental caries (6,7). The cell surface protein antigens of S. mutans-Pac, Ag I/II, PI, and B-assist in bacterial colonization of tooth surfaces and interact with the salivary pellicle that coats the enamel (10). Bacteria colonize the oral cavity, a process that triggers inflammation.…”

“…Genetic and immunologic differences among individuals may be important in the risk of dental caries (12). Although the role of cytokines in the pathogenesis of dental caries is not clear, components of S. mutans were found to stimulate production of proinflammatory cytokines (10)(11)(12). This study assessed the associations of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra), and IL-10 levels with dental caries.…”

“…Recent evidence suggests that they are important in controlling the inflammatory response to bacterial infection. Interactions between oral microorganisms and the immune system are complex (10,11). Genetic and immunologic differences among individuals may be important in the risk of dental caries (12).…”