First Detection and Characterization of Streptococcus dentapri from Caries Active Subject

Area of Science:

• Oral microbiology
• Dental caries pathogenesis
• Bacterial phylogenetics

Background:

• Mutans streptococci (MS) are primary agents in dental caries development.
• Understanding the diversity and roles of MS species is crucial for caries prevention.
• This study focuses on a less-characterized MS species, *S. dentapri*.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize *Streptococcus dentapri* using phylogenetic and phenotypic methods.
• To investigate the presence of *S. dentapri* in caries-active individuals.
• To determine the relationship of *S. dentapri* to other MS species.

Main Methods:

• Isolation and culturing of bacteria from dental plaque of caries-active subjects.
• Identification of *S. dentapri* using 16S rDNA sequencing.
• Phylogenetic analysis, colony morphology, and biotyping for characterization.

Main Results:

• One strain, H14, was identified as *S. dentapri* via 16S rDNA sequencing.
• *S. dentapri* exhibited biotype II biochemical characteristics, similar to other MS.
• Phylogenetic analysis indicated *S. dentapri* is closely related to *S. macacae*.

Conclusions:

• The findings confirm *S. dentapri* can colonize the human oral cavity.
• Further research is needed to elucidate the specific role of *S. dentapri* in dental caries.
• This study contributes to the understanding of MS diversity in oral health.