Effect of cultural conditions on trimethylsilyl-sugar profiles of Streptococcus mutans

The cellular carbohydrates of Streptococcus mutans NCTC 10832 were converted to methyl glycoside trimethylsilyl ethers and analyzed by gas-liquid chromatography. The resulting profiles revealed the presence of glycerol, xylose, rhamnose, galactose, glucose, N-acetylglucosamine, and N-acetylmuramic acid. The proportions of monosaccharides in the profile were found to be stable with respect to changing growth temperature or duration of growth. However, the type of medium used, and its carbohydrate content, did significantly alter the profile, whereas gaseous atmosphere exerted a lesser effect on carbohydrate composition. By controlling growth parameters, we obtained reproducible profiles. Whole cells are probably a satisfactory alternative to highly purified cell walls.