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This gene can serve as a novel target for development of vaccines, diagnostics, and therapeutics against the hypervirulent version of S.mutans.
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Brief Description: Streptococcus mutans (S.mutans) is a major pathogen commonly found in the human oral cavity and is associated with dental caries. Dissemination of oral bacteria into the bloodstream is very common in patients subjected to dental procedures. S.mutans, if presents in the bloodstream, is suspected as a leading causative agent of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) such as infective endocarditis (IE), a life-threatening inflammation of the heart valves. Recently it has been shown that S. mutans is the most prevalent bacterial species in heart vegetations and atheromatous plaques. Currently, there is no vaccine for S.mutans. The researchers discovered a gene (Cnm) that contributed to S.mutans hyper virulence. People carrying S.mutans which has this gene are likely to be at a higher risk of developing dental carries and CVD. Applications: Development of a kit that would generally screen patients for higher risk of developing CVD, especially before a dental procedure. In addition, Cnm could be the center of developing a vaccine against hypervirulent forms of S.mutans. Advantages: This gene can serve as a novel target for development of vaccines, diagnostics, and therapeutics against the hypervirulent version of S.mutans.