[The new fight against mutant streptococci].
Mutans streptococci are an important factor in the aetiology of dental caries. New ways of combating these bacteria have become available with the development of molecular biological techniques. One of these strategies involves the genetic modification of mutans streptococci to develop less cariogenic mutants. Acid production and the production of intracellular polysaccharides have been eliminated. But it is not clear yet whether these less cariogenic mutant strains are able to replace the normal mutans streptococci in dental plaque. Immunization is another possibility to suppress mutans streptococci. Antibodies against proteins involved in adherence of mutans streptococci have been raised by active immunization. It is also possible to raise antibodies in cow serum and milk, in eggs of chickens and even in tobacco plants. After isolation, these antibodies are to be applied topically. In the future, these new strategies may prevent or reduce caries. However, further research is necessary to resolve the obstacles on the way to commercial application.
Straetemans
M M
MM
Vakgroep Cariologie Endodontologie en Pedodontologie, Academisch Centrum, Tandheelkunde Amsterdam (ACTA), Louwesweg 1, 1066 EA Amsterdam.
van Loveren
C
C
D000907:Antibodies, Bacterial / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000276:immunology; D003731:Dental Caries / Q000382:microbiology* / Q000517:prevention & control; D003773:Dental Plaque / Q000382:microbiology* / Q000517:prevention & control; D006801:Humans; D030781:Organisms, Genetically Modified; D013290:Streptococcal Infections / Q000382:microbiology* / Q000517:prevention & control; D013295:Streptococcus mutans / Q000235:genetics / Q000276:immunology / Q000472:pathogenicity* / Q000502:physiology
D000907:Antibodies, Bacterial
De nieuwe strijd tegen mutans streptokokken.