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Updated: Feb 10, 2026
Phase Transitions and Effect of Intermolecular Forces
Diverted Total Synthesis of Carolacton-Inspired Analogs Yields Three Distinct Phenotypes in Streptococcus mutans
Amy E Solinski1, Alexander B Koval1, Richard S Brzozowski1
1Department of Chemistry, Temple University , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19122, United States.
Abstract:
The oral microbiome is a dynamic environment inhabited by both commensals and pathogens. Among these is Streptococcus mutans, the causative agent of dental caries, the most prevalent childhood disease. Carolacton has remarkably specific activity against S. mutans, causing acid-mediated cell death during biofilm formation; however, its complex structure limits its utility. Herein, we report the diverted total synthesis and biological evaluation of a rationally designed library of simplified analogs that unveiled three unique biofilm phenotypes further validating the role of natural product synthesis in the discovery of new biological phenomena.
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