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Deoxyribonucleases of Streptococcus sanguis
Acta Microbiologica Polonica
|January 1, 1980
Summary
Three deoxyribonucleases (DNases) were isolated from Streptococcus sanguis cells. These enzymes exhibit distinct properties and function as endonucleases, differing from DNases found in other Streptococcus species.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Enzymology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Streptococcus sanguis is a bacterium relevant to oral microbiology.
- Understanding bacterial enzymes like deoxyribonucleases (DNases) is crucial for comprehending genetic exchange and cellular processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To isolate and characterize deoxyribonucleases (DNases) from competent and incompetent Streptococcus sanguis cells.
- To compare these DNases with those from other Streptococcus species.
Main Methods:
- Isolation of DNases from cell lysates of Streptococcus sanguis.
- Electrophoresis and immunological assays to differentiate DNases.
- Enzyme activity assays with native and denatured DNA.
- Determination of molecular weights and substrate specificity.
Main Results:
- Three distinct DNases (1, 2, and 3) were isolated from Streptococcus sanguis strain Challis.
- These DNases possess different electrophoretic mobilities and immunological profiles.
- All isolated DNases function as endonucleases, primarily degrading native DNA.
- Molecular weights range from 52,000 to 57,000 Da.
- The identified DNases differ from those previously characterized in Streptococcus pyogenes and Streptococcus pneumoniae.
- Similar nucleases were detected in other Streptococcus sanguis strains.
Conclusions:
- Streptococcus sanguis possesses multiple DNases with unique characteristics.
- These enzymes are endonucleases with a preference for native DNA.
- The findings suggest species-specific DNase profiles within the Streptococcus genus.