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Generation of a Gene-disrupted Streptococcus mutans Strain Without Gene Cloning
Published on: October 23, 2017
Genetic diversity of plaque mutans streptococci with rep-PCR
K Cheon1, S A Moser, J Whiddon
1Department of Pediatric Dentistry, University of Alabama School of Dentistry, 1919 7th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA.
Journal of Dental Research
|February 8, 2011
Summary
Determining the minimal number of Mutans streptococci (MS) isolates is crucial for accurately assessing genotypic diversity in dental caries research. This study found that fewer isolates are needed to reliably identify MS genotypes within individuals.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Genetics
- Dental Health
Background:
- Mutans streptococci (MS) are primary etiological agents in dental caries.
- Understanding MS genotypic diversity is vital for caries research and prevention strategies.
- Current methods may require optimization for efficient genotypic analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the minimum number of MS isolates necessary for reliable genotypic diversity assessment.
- To establish an efficient methodology for MS genotyping studies.
- To provide a model for analyzing intra-individual genotypic variation.
Main Methods:
- Genotyping of MS isolates using repetitive extragenic palindromic-polymerase chain-reaction (rep-PCR).
- Statistical analysis of isolate numbers and genotype detection probabilities.
- Comparison of genotype diversity across different age groups (children and adults).
Main Results:
- Analysis of 20 MS isolates revealed a mean of 1.6 genotypes in children and 2.4 in adults.
- Reducing isolates to 7-10 provided up to 78% probability of detecting 4 genotypes.
- A mean of 1.5 genotypes was observed in a larger cohort (35 children, 10 adults).
Conclusions:
- A reduced number of MS isolates (7-10) is sufficient for robust genotypic diversity evaluation.
- The rep-PCR method is effective for MS genotyping.
- This study offers a validated model for designing future MS genotyping research.
