Streptococcus mutans biofilm formation

Streptococcus mutans biofilm formation refers to the assembly and maturation of microbial communities—mainly S. mutans—on tooth surfaces, which produce extracellular polysaccharide (EPS) matrices primarily via glucosyltransferase enzymes (GtfB, GtfC, GtfD)[3][7]. This biofilm, commonly known as dental plaque, is a major virulence factor for S. mutans and plays a central role in the pathogenesis of dental caries by enabling adhesion, protection from host defenses, and acidification of the local environment[1][3]. Mechanisms include both sucrose-dependent and sucrose-independent adhesion, mediated by surface proteins like P1/AgI/II, glucan-binding proteins, and collagen-binding protein[7]. Quorum sensing and signal transduction systems (such as comCDE) regulate biofilm formation and stress responses[1]. Targeting biofilm formation pharmacologically disrupts EPS synthesis, membrane integrity, and bacterial viability, presenting a promising approach for preventing and treating dental caries[2][4][8].

Other names

Streptococcus mutans biofilmS. mutans biofilmDental plaque biofilmCariogenic biofilm

Disruption of cell membrane integrity (farnesol); Inhibition of glucosyltransferase activity (reducing EPS synthesis); Direct killing or inhibition of S. mutans viability (antimicrobial peptides/mutacins); Interference with signal transduction/quorum sensing