The Molecular Biology of Cariogenic Bacteria

Russell, RRB

The Molecular Biology of Cariogenic Bacteria

Lookup NU author(s): Emeritus Professor Roy Russell

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Abstract

Molecular biology techniques have made a major contribution to our understanding of dental plaque bacteria, helping to clarify the taxonomic relationships of the various species of oral bacteria and their association with dental caries. Methods developed for gene cloning and targeted gene knockout have allowed analysis of the function of individual genes and their contribution to aspects of cellular adhesion and physiology that may be important for cariogenicity. The availability of the Streptococcus mutans genome sequence has given access to new tools for discovering novel genes and exploring their regulation, as well means by which diversity within the species can be explored.