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Genetic variation in comC, the gene encoding competence-stimulating peptide (CSP) in Streptococcus mutans
Elaine Allan1, Haitham A Hussain, Kevin R Crawford
1Division of Microbial Diseases, UCL Eastman Dental Institute, University College London, London, UK. e.allan@eastman.ucl.ac.uk
FEMS Microbiology Letters
|January 19, 2007
Summary
Genetic variability in Streptococcus mutans comC genes was studied. Despite diverse alleles, all comC variants in S. mutans are functionally equivalent, unlike in S. pneumoniae.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Streptococcus mutans is a key pathogen in dental caries.
- Quorum sensing regulates virulence and competence in many bacteria.
- The comC gene encodes the competence-stimulating peptide (CSP) crucial for natural competence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the genetic variability of the comC gene in Streptococcus mutans.
- To determine the relationship between comC genotype and natural competence for DNA uptake.
- To assess the functional equivalence of different comC alleles in S. mutans.
Main Methods:
- Sequencing of the comC gene from 36 geographically diverse S. mutans strains.
- Analysis of genetic variation in comC alleles and mature CSP sequences.
- Assessment of natural transformation efficiency in relation to comC genotype.
- Testing strain competence in response to synthetic CSPs.
Main Results:
- Seven comC alleles encoding three distinct mature CSPs were identified in 36 S. mutans strains.
- Low amino acid sequence variation was observed in comC compared to Streptococcus pneumoniae.
- Significant variation in natural competence was found, but no correlation with CSP genotype.
- All tested strains responded to synthetic CSPs, indicating functional equivalence of comC alleles.
Conclusions:
- comC alleles in S. mutans exhibit functional equivalence regarding competence.
- Unlike S. pneumoniae, S. mutans does not show pherotype specificity related to comC.
- The genetic diversity in comC does not directly dictate the natural competence levels in S. mutans.
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