Streptococcus mutans cDNA and recombinant antigen

Streptococcus mutans is a bacterium that is commonly associated with dental caries (tooth decay) in humans. One of the key components of this bacterium is its major cell-surface adhesin PAc, which plays a significant role in its ability to colonize and thrive in the oral cavity.

Major Cell-Surface Adhesin PAc: Structure and Function

Major cell-surface adhesin PAc is a protein that is located on the surface of Streptococcus mutans. It is responsible for binding to host proteins, specifically those found on the surface of tooth enamel. This enables the bacterium to adhere to the teeth and form biofilms, which are complex communities of microorganisms that can cause dental caries.

The use of recombinant proteins/cDNA in academic research and therapeutic applications has skyrocketed. However, in heterologous expression systems, successful recombinant protein expression is dependent on a variety of factors, including codon preference, RNA secondary structure, and GC content. When compared to pre-optimization, more and more experimental results demonstrated that the expression level was dramatically increased, ranging from two to hundred times depending on the gene. Bioclone has created a proprietary technology platform that has resulted in the creation of over 6,000 artificially synthesized codon-optimized cDNA clones (cloned in E. coli expression Vector), which are ready for production of the recombinant proteins.
The use of cDNA and recombinant antigens derived from Streptococcus mutans can have various applications in the fields of molecular biology, biotechnology, and dentistry. Some of these applications include:

Diagnostic tests: Recombinant antigens can be used in the development of rapid diagnostic tests for the detection of Streptococcus mutans in clinical samples. These tests can help to quickly identify the presence of the bacteria in the oral cavity and provide early treatment for infected individuals.

Vaccine development: Recombinant antigens can be used in the development of vaccines against Streptococcus mutans. By exposing the immune system to specific antigens, the body can build immunity to the bacteria, reducing the risk of infection.

Study of bacterial virulence: The use of cDNA from Streptococcus mutans can help researchers to study the genetic basis of the bacteria’s virulence. By analyzing the cDNA, researchers can identify the genes and gene products involved in the bacteria’s ability to cause disease, which can lead to the development of new treatments and preventions.

Study of bacterial evolution: The use of cDNA from Streptococcus mutans can help researchers to study the evolution of the bacteria. By analyzing the cDNA, researchers can identify genetic changes that occur in the bacteria over time, which can provide insights into the evolution of oral bacteria and the development of new treatments.

Study of the oral microbiome: Streptococcus mutans is a common member of the oral microbiome, which is the collection of microorganisms that inhabit the human oral cavity. The use of cDNA and recombinant antigens can help researchers to study the role of Streptococcus mutans in the oral microbiome and its interactions with other microorganisms.

Overall, the use of cDNA and recombinant antigens from Streptococcus mutans has the potential to contribute to a better understanding of the bacteria and its role in oral infections, as well as to the development of new diagnostic tools and treatments for oral diseases.