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Identification and analysis of a collagenolytic activity in Streptococcus mutans
R J Jackson1, D V Lim, M L Dao
1Department of Biology, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33620-5150, USA.
Current Microbiology
|January 1, 1997
Summary
Streptococcus mutans degrades collagen, a key factor in dental root decay. This bacterial collagenase activity is enhanced by sucrose and may represent a significant virulence factor.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Oral Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Streptococcus mutans is a primary cause of dental caries.
- Its ability to bind collagen contributes to dental root decay.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the collagen-degrading capabilities of Streptococcus mutans.
- To determine if this activity is a virulence factor in dental root decay.
Main Methods:
- Electron microscopy to observe collagen fibril disruption.
- Degradation assays using synthetic peptide FALGPA.
- Enzyme inhibition studies with specific inhibitors (EDTA, 1,10-phenanthroline, PMSF).
- Immunological cross-reactivity tests.
- Gelatin zymography.
Main Results:
- S. mutans binds and disrupts collagen fibrils.
- FALGPA degradation is observed, with higher activity in sucrose-grown cells.
- Activity is inhibited by EDTA and 1,10-phenanthroline, characteristic of metalloproteinase collagenase.
- Cross-reactivity with Clostridium histolyticum collagenase antiserum.
- Gelatinolytic activity confirmed.
Conclusions:
- Streptococcus mutans possesses collagenolytic activity.
- This activity is potentially enhanced by sucrose.
- Bacterial collagenase is suggested as a virulence factor in dental root decay.