Bacterial enzymes involved in oral metabolism

Bacterial enzymes involved in oral metabolism represent a broad class of catalytic proteins produced by the oral microbiota that mediate the breakdown of dietary components and the synthesis of virulence factors. Key examples include glucosyltransferases (GTFs), which catalyze the formation of dental plaque biofilms by converting sucrose into sticky glucans, and enolase, a glycolytic enzyme essential for acid production (acidogenesis) in cariogenic bacteria like Streptococcus mutans (Bowen & Koo, 2011, Caries Research; Marquis et al., 1989, PubMed). Additionally, proteolytic enzymes such as gingipains produced by Porphyromonas gingivalis are crucial for tissue degradation and immune evasion in periodontal disease (Potempa et al., 2003, PubMed). These enzymes are significant therapeutic targets; for example, fluoride ions inhibit bacterial enolase to reduce tooth decay, while specific gingipain inhibitors like atuzaginstat have been investigated for treating periodontitis and its potential systemic links to Alzheimer's disease (Dominy et al., 2019, Science Advances). Targeting these metabolic pathways allows for the management of oral dysbiosis and the prevention of common conditions such as dental caries, gingivitis, and halitosis.

Other names

Oral microbial enzymesDental plaque enzymesCariogenic enzymesPeriodontal proteasesOral bacterial metabolic enzymes

Inhibition of bacterial glycolysis, disruption of extracellular polysaccharide synthesis, and proteolytic enzyme inhibition.