Glucosyltransferase (Streptococcus mutans) (GTF)

Glucosyltransferases (GTFs) are extracellular enzymes produced by Streptococcus mutans that serve as critical virulence factors in the development of dental caries [UniProt: P08987, PMID: 22403920]. These enzymes, primarily categorized into GTF-B, GTF-C, and GTF-D, catalyze the breakdown of dietary sucrose and the subsequent synthesis of alpha-linked glucans [UniProt: P11001]. These extracellular polysaccharides form the essential matrix of dental plaque, facilitating the stable adhesion of bacteria to the tooth enamel and promoting the assembly of complex biofilm communities [PMID: 22403920, PMID: 26441300]. Within this protective biofilm environment, S. mutans ferments carbohydrates to produce lactic acid, which leads to the localized demineralization of the tooth surface [PMID: 22403920]. Because GTFs are unique to the bacterial pathogen and are not present in human physiology, they are highly attractive targets for the development of anti-biofilm agents [PMID: 21525233, PMID: 27754919]. Current therapeutic research focuses on identifying small molecules and natural products, such as polyphenols and acarbose, that can selectively inhibit GTF activity to prevent plaque formation without disrupting the overall balance of the oral microbiome [PMID: 21525233, PMID: 27754919].

Other names

GTFaseDextransucraseSucrose:1,6-alpha-D-glucan 6-alpha-D-glucosyltransferaseGTF-BGTF-CGTF-D

Inhibition of the enzymatic conversion of sucrose into extracellular glucans, thereby preventing bacterial adhesion and biofilm matrix formation.