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.