Antigen I/II mediates interactions between Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Oral Health
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans are key pathogens in early childhood caries (ECC).
• While S. mutans glucans are known to promote biofilm formation with C. albicans, non-glucan factors' roles are less understood.
• Understanding microbial interactions is crucial for ECC pathogenesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the role of Streptococcus mutans antigen I/II in two-species biofilms with Candida albicans.
• To determine if antigen I/II influences C. albicans incorporation and acid production in biofilms.
• To assess the in vivo significance of antigen I/II in a co-infection model.

Main Methods:

• Formation and analysis of two-species biofilms of S. mutans and C. albicans.
• Quantification of C. albicans incorporation and acid production in the presence and absence of S. mutans antigen I/II.
• In vivo co-infection studies using Drosophila melanogaster model.

Main Results:

• S. mutans antigen I/II is essential for the incorporation of C. albicans into two-species biofilms.
• Antigen I/II mediates increased acid production in the S. mutans and C. albicans biofilm.
• Antigen I/II is required for the colonization of both species during in vivo co-infection.

Conclusions:

• S. mutans antigen I/II plays a significant role in mediating the interaction between S. mutans and C. albicans.
• Antigen I/II promotes increased C. albicans colonization and acid production, contributing to ECC pathogenesis.
• These findings reveal novel functions for the S. mutans adhesin antigen I/II in polymicrobial infections.