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Contribution of proteases and plasmin-acquired activity in migration of Peptostreptococcus micros through a

D Grenier1, R Bouclin

  • 1Groupe de Recherche en Ecologie Buccale, Faculté de Médecine Dentaire, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada. daniel.grenier@greb.ulaval.ca

Oral Microbiology and Immunology
|August 23, 2006
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Rough morphotype Peptostreptococcus micros produces proteases and acquires plasmin activity, enhancing bacterial tissue penetration. These properties may aid the spread of P. micros in periodontal and vascular infections.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Bacterial Pathogenesis

Background:

  • Peptostreptococcus micros is linked to chronic periodontitis and endodontic infections.
  • Bacterial morphotypes can influence virulence factors and infection potential.

Purpose of the Study:

  • Investigate protease production and plasmin activity acquisition in rough and smooth P. micros morphotypes.
  • Evaluate the role of these properties in bacterial migration through basement membranes.

Main Methods:

  • Protease activity assessed using chromogenic/fluorogenic substrates and zymography.
  • Plasminogen binding quantified by ELISA; tissue penetration studied using Matrigel.
  • Serine protease inhibitor used to assess the role of endogenous proteases.

Main Results:

  • Rough morphotype P. micros exhibited chymotrypsin-like and gelatinase activities, unlike smooth morphotypes.
  • Both morphotypes bound plasminogen, which was activated to plasmin by bacterial or human activators.
  • Rough morphotype showed enhanced Matrigel penetration, inhibited by serine protease inhibitors, and plasmin activity correlated with increased tissue penetration.

Conclusions:

  • Endogenous proteolytic activities and acquired plasmin activity in P. micros contribute to bacterial dissemination.
  • These mechanisms may facilitate the spread of P. micros to periodontal tissues and bloodstream.

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