Phenotypic Heterogeneity of Genomically-Diverse Isolates of Streptococcus mutans

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0061358
• Publication Date: 2013-04-16T21:06:04Z
• Authors: Sara R. Palmer; James H. Miller; Jacqueline Abranches; Lin Zeng; Tristan Lefebure; Vincent P. Richards; José A. Lemos; Michael J. Stanhope; Robert A. Burne
• Keywords: ORFS; Comparative Genomics; Bacterial Genetics

High coverage, whole genome shotgun (WGS) sequencing of 57 geographically- and genetically-diverse isolates Streptococcus mutans from individuals known dental caries status was recently completed. Of the sequenced strains, fifteen isolates, were selected based primarily on differences in gene content phenotypic characteristics to affect virulence compared with reference strain UA159. A high degree variability these properties observed between a broad spectrum sensitivities low pH, oxidative stress (air paraquat) exposure competence stimulating peptide (CSP). Significant autolytic behavior biofilm development glucose or sucrose also observed. Natural genetic varied among this correlated presence absence genes, comCDE comX, bacteriocins. In general strains that lacked ability become competent possessed fewer genes for bacteriocins immunity proteins contained polymorphic variants genes. WGS sequence analysis pan-genome revealed, first time, components Type VII secretion system several S. as well two putative ORFs encode possible collagen binding located upstream cnm gene, which is associated host cell invasiveness. The particular assessed wax-worm model. This study combine comprehensive key virulence-related phenotypes extensive genomic pathogen evolved closely humans. Our highlights diversity indicates species has variety adaptive strategies persist human oral cavity and, when conditions are favorable, initiate disease.