Effect of antibody preparations on glucose uptake by a cariogenic Streptococcus

The effect of antisera to whole cells or cell wall components on glucose uptake by S. mutans 6715 was examined. Early stationary phase 6715 cells were treated with test serum and incubated at 37 degrees C in the presence of 14C-glucose. Samples were removed at timed intervals and measured in a liquid scintillation counter for radioactive uptake. Antisera to both whole cells and components known to be present on the surface of the cells reduced glucose uptake relative to normal serum. It is suggested that inhibition of glucose uptake may be one mechanism by which a caries vaccine may operate.