Clinical Study of Mutans Streptococci Using 3DS and Monoclonal Antibodies

Abstract

Streptococcus mutans has been implicated as the prlmary causative orgFnism of dental caries (1 ) S mutans produces surface proteln antigen (PAc) (2) for the purpose of initial attachment and produces glucosyltransferase (GTF)(3) for the synthesis or water-insoluble glucans (WIG).These two substances contribute to the canogenlC Properties ofS.mutans in the oral cavity (4).Recently, an anti-PAc monoclonal antibody (KH5, MAb) recognizing an alanine-rich repeating region (residues 365 to 377) was identified as an antibody that inhibits the attaclment of S. mutans to tooth surfaces in rats (5,6) While an anti-GTF monoclonal antibody (p-126, MAb) inhibiting WIG synthesis by GTF-I (7) has been discovered.KH5 and p-126 MAb may also be useful for protection against dental caries caused by S. mutans.