Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 26, 2026

Optimized Bone Sampling Protocols for the Retrieval of Ancient DNA from Archaeological Remains
Published on: November 30, 2021
Molecular analysis of ancient caries
Marc Simón1, Rafael Montiel2, Andrea Smerling1
1Unitat d'Antropologia Biològica, Department of Biologia Animal, Biologia Vegetal i Ecologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spain.
This study analyzed Streptococcus mutans dextranase evolution using ancient DNA. Modern populations show increased genetic diversity and positive selection at one site, suggesting population expansion and adaptation.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Paleogenomics
- Evolutionary Biology
Background:
- Streptococcus mutans is a key pathogen in dental caries.
- Dextranase is a virulence factor produced by S. mutans.
- Understanding the evolution of virulence factors is crucial for public health.
More Related Videos
08:20Systematic Approach to Identify Novel Antimicrobial and Antibiofilm Molecules from Plants' Extracts and Fractions to Prevent Dental Caries
Published on: March 31, 2021
07:57Sampling and Pretreatment of Tooth Enamel Carbonate for Stable Carbon and Oxygen Isotope Analysis
Published on: August 15, 2018
Related Concept Videos
Tooth Anatomy
The Crown, Neck, and Root
The visible part of the tooth is referred to as the crown. It's covered by enamel, the hardest substance in the human body. The crown is uniquely shaped for each type of tooth, allowing for different functions such as cutting, tearing, or...
Teeth
In the bud stage, the tooth germ (an aggregation of cells) starts to form in the developing jawbone. During the cap stage, the tooth germ differentiates into enamel organ, dental papilla, and dental sac, which will later develop into the tooth's enamel, dentin...