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Coaggregation between Actinomyces viscosus with Streptococcus pyogenes and Streptococcus agalactiae.
Microbiologica
|July 1, 1986
Summary
Interbacterial coaggregation, the clumping of bacteria, was observed between human oral Actinomyces viscosus and pathogenic Streptococcus strains. This bacterial clumping mechanism is calcium-dependent and influenced by pH, lactose, and salt concentrations.
Area of Science:
- Oral microbiology
- Bacterial interactions
- Infectious disease research
Background:
- Actinomyces viscosus is a common inhabitant of the human oral cavity.
- Streptococcus pyogenes and Streptococcus agalactiae are significant human pathogens.
- Understanding interbacterial coaggregation is crucial for studying oral biofilm formation and pathogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the coaggregation potential between Actinomyces viscosus and strains of Streptococcus pyogenes and Streptococcus agalactiae.
- To elucidate the environmental factors influencing this specific interbacterial coaggregation mechanism.
Main Methods:
- Coaggregation assays were performed using clinical isolates of Actinomyces viscosus, Streptococcus pyogenes, and Streptococcus agalactiae.
- The influence of calcium ions, pH, lactose, and sodium chloride (NaCl) on coaggregation was systematically evaluated.
Main Results:
- A significant proportion of Streptococcus pyogenes (15/26) and Streptococcus agalactiae (13/31) strains exhibited coaggregation with Actinomyces viscosus.
- The coaggregation process was found to be dependent on the presence of calcium ions and specific pH conditions.
- Coaggregation was partially inhibited by the addition of lactose (0.06 M) and strongly inhibited by high salt concentration (1 M NaCl).
Conclusions:
- Actinomyces viscosus can coaggregate with specific strains of Streptococcus pyogenes and Streptococcus agalactiae, suggesting potential ecological and pathogenic interactions.
- The findings highlight the role of calcium, pH, and ionic strength in modulating bacterial coaggregation, providing insights into mechanisms of oral microbial community structure.