DNA adenine methylation influences gene expression and biofilm formation in <i>Streptococcus mutans</i>.

ABSTRACT: Streptococcus mutans, a key oral pathogen, utilizes quorum sensing to regulate biofilm formation-a major virulence factor in the development of dental caries (tooth decay). Our recent research uncovered a complex interplay between the CSP-ComDE quorum sensing pathway and the Type II DpnII restriction-modification (R-M) system in S. mutans. The DpnII R-M system methylates adenine at 5'-GATC-3' sites and cleaves unmethylated DNA, significantly influencing foreign DNA acquisition and gene expression. In this study, we investigated the impact of a ΔRM mutant, which lacks adenine methylation, on biofilm formation. The ΔRM mutant formed fragile biofilms that easily detach from surfaces, with significantly reduced exopolysaccharide content and increased extracellular DNA, which appe

SUBMITTER: Zhao H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12542736 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature