Phenotypic and Genotypic Characterization of Streptococcus mutans Strains Isolated from Endodontic Infections.

ABSTRACT: Streptococcus mutans plays an important role in caries etiology and eventually in systemic infections. However, it is often found in infected root canals, but the pathophysiological characteristics of strains residing in this site are largely unknown. Here, we characterized strains of S. mutans isolated from root canals of primary (PI) and secondary/persistent (SI) endodontic infections in relation to serotype and genotype; presence of genes coding for collagen binding proteins (CBPs); collagen binding activity and biofilm formation capacity; ability to withstand environmental stresses; systemic virulence in Galleria mellonella; and invasion of human coronary artery endothelial cells and human dental pupal fibroblasts. Samples from 10 patients with PI and 10 patients with SI were collected

SUBMITTER: Lima AR 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7686129 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature