The interaction of enzymatically active glucosyltransferase (GTF) with the host-derived constituents of the acquired enamel pellicle, as well as the products of GTF activity (glucans) may play a profound role on the formation and maturation of the dental plaque. GTF adsorbs preferably to salivary-coated hydroxyapatite and expresses enhanced glucan forming activity. Studies from our laboratory have also demonstrated that surface (salivary-coated hydroxyapatite) bound GTF exhibits catalytic activity over a broader range of pH (4.5-7.5) and temperatures when compared to enzyme in solution. Further, glucans formed in situ remain tightly associated with the salivary coated hydroxyapatite surface and markedly enhance the adsorption of the cariogenic streptococci S. mutans and S. sobrinus. To gain insight into the nature of the changes observed for surface-bound GTF activity, we will determine kinetic parameters (Vmax and Km) of surface-bound GFT. Second, we will identify the salivary components which influence the binding and enzymatic activity of surface (salivary-coated hydroxyapatite) bound GTF. Third, the glucans formed in situ will be characterized with regard to their structure, size and solubility. Last, the influence f in situ formed glucans on the adherence of S. mutans to pellicles pre-colonized with Actinomyces viscosus and Streptococcus sanguis will be determined. Collectively, these studies will provide considerable insight into the role played by glucans formed at the tooth surface in modulating plaque formation and development.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Dental & Craniofacial Research (NIDCR)
Type
Research Project (R01)
Project #
2R01DE007907-04
Application #
3221659
Study Section
Oral Biology and Medicine Subcommittee 1 (OBM)
Project Start
1986-12-01
Project End
1992-11-30
Budget Start
1989-12-01
Budget End
1990-11-30
Support Year
4
Fiscal Year
1990
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
University of Rochester
Department
Type
Schools of Dentistry
DUNS #
208469486
City
Rochester
State
NY
Country
United States
Zip Code
14627
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Kopec, L K; Vacca-Smith, A M; Bowen, W H (1997) Structural aspects of glucans formed in solution and on the surface of hydroxyapatite. Glycobiology 7:929-34
Vacca-Smith, A M; Venkitaraman, A R; Quivey Jr, R G et al. (1996) Interactions of streptococcal glucosyltransferases with alpha-amylase and starch on the surface of saliva-coated hydroxyapatite. Arch Oral Biol 41:291-8
Steinberg, D; Beeman, D; Bowen, W H (1996) Kinetic properties of glucosyltransferase adsorbed onto saliva-coated hydroxyapatite. Artif Cells Blood Substit Immobil Biotechnol 24:553-66
Kopec, L K; Bowen, W H (1995) Adherence of microorganisms to rat salivary pellicles. Caries Res 29:507-12

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