Bacterial surface adhesive proteins and oral biofilm extracellular matrix proteins

Bacterial surface adhesive proteins and oral biofilm extracellular matrix proteins are a heterogeneous group of molecules that mediate the attachment, accumulation, and survival of microorganisms on oral surfaces. Adhesins, such as the Microbial Surface Components Recognizing Adhesive Matrix Molecules (MSCRAMMs), allow bacteria like Streptococcus mutans to bind to the salivary pellicle coating the teeth (PMID: 16507655). Once attached, bacteria secrete enzymes like glucosyltransferases (GTFs) that produce an extracellular matrix composed of glucans, which provides structural integrity and protection to the developing biofilm (PMID: 21475121). This matrix acts as a scaffold for further colonization and creates a microenvironment that sequesters organic acids, leading to the demineralization of tooth enamel. Targeting these proteins is a primary strategy in preventive dentistry to inhibit the transition of oral microbiota from a commensal to a pathogenic state. Therapeutic interventions include small molecule inhibitors of GTFs and anti-adhesive agents that prevent the initial docking of bacteria to the tooth surface (PMID: 25635909).

Other names

Bacterial adhesinsMicrobial surface components recognizing adhesive matrix moleculesMSCRAMMsOral biofilm extracellular polymeric substancesBiofilm matrix proteinsDental plaque proteins

Inhibition of bacterial attachment to the acquired salivary pellicle, disruption of the synthesis of extracellular polysaccharides (glucans), and interference with the structural stability of the biofilm matrix.