Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 19, 2026

09:51
Purification of a High Molecular Mass Protein in Streptococcus mutans
Published on: September 14, 2019
Complete genome sequence of Streptococcus mutans GS-5, a serotype c strain
Saswati Biswas1, Indranil Biswas
1Department of Microbiology, Molecular Genetics and Immunology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA.
Journal of Bacteriology
|August 14, 2012
Summary
Streptococcus mutans causes dental caries and serotype c strains are most common. This study presents the full genome sequence of the widely used laboratory strain, S. mutans GS-5 (serotype c).
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Genomics
- Oral Health
Background:
- Streptococcus mutans is a primary cause of dental caries.
- It is the most cariogenic of all oral streptococci.
- Serotype c strains are the predominant S. mutans type in the human oral cavity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present the complete genome sequence of Streptococcus mutans GS-5.
- To provide a genomic resource for a widely used laboratory strain of serotype c.
Main Methods:
- Whole-genome sequencing of S. mutans GS-5.
- Bioinformatic analysis of the genome sequence.
Main Results:
- The complete genome sequence of S. mutans GS-5 was determined.
- The genome provides a valuable resource for studying S. mutans biology and virulence.
Conclusions:
- The availability of the S. mutans GS-5 genome sequence facilitates further research into dental caries.
- This genomic data supports investigations into cariogenic mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets.
Related Concept Videos
Modern Molecular Taxonomy
Advancements in molecular biology have revolutionized the identification and characterization of bacteria, with multiple methods leveraging DNA sequencing for enhanced precision. As sequencing technologies improve and costs decline, these approaches are increasingly used in clinical, environmental, and evolutionary studies.Multilocus Sequence Typing (MLST) examines several housekeeping genes, essential chromosomal genes encoding cellular functions, to distinguish strains. Approximately...
Evolution of Microbial Genome
Microbial genome evolution is a highly dynamic process shaped by continual gene gain and loss across species and strains. This genomic flexibility allows microorganisms to adapt rapidly to environmental pressures and interactions with other organisms. Central to understanding this diversity is the distinction between the core and pan genomes.The core genome comprises the genes shared by all sampled strains of a species, representing essential functions needed for fundamental cellular processes.

