[Extracellular polysaccharides from Streptococcus mutans of various biotypes--chemical characterization and enzymatic...

The composition and proportions of different types of compound were established in extracellular polysaccharides synthesized in virto by streptococcus mutans strains of various biotypes. The polysaccharides were further enzymatically hydrolysed with dextranase and the degree of hydrolysis as well as the character and amount of the products of decomposition were determined. Under the conditions employed the strains synthesized solely glucanes. The water insoluble polysaccharides of strains of various biotypes show significant differences with regard to the proportions of alpha 1,3 and alpha 1,3,6-compounds. There is a significant correlation between the proportions of these compounds and the degree of hydrolysis by dextranase.