Oral actinomycetes produce fructosyltransferase (FTF) enzymes which convert sucrose into polymers of D-fructose, known as levans, and these polymers are thought to contribute to the persistence and virulence of the organisms. A gene encoding FTF was isolated from Actinomyces naeslundii WVU45; the deduced amino acid sequence showed significant similarity to known levansucrases of gram-negative e...

BACKGROUND Strains of viridans group streptococci that initiate colonization of the human tooth surface typically coaggregate with each other and with Actinomyces naeslundii, another member of the developing biofilm community. These interactions generally involve adhesin-mediated recognition of streptococcal receptor polysaccharides (RPS). The objective of our studies is to understand the role ...

BACKGROUND/AIM The purpose of the present investigation was to determine the effect of self-performed supragingival plaque removal using either manual (Crest Complete) or power (Braun 3D Plaque Remover) toothbrushing on supra and subgingival plaque composition. METHODS 47 periodontal maintenance subjects completed this single-blind 6 month longitudinal study. At baseline, samples of supra and...

A novel antimicrobial peptide, GAPI, has been developed recently by grafting gallic acid (GA) to polyphemusin I (PI). The objective of this study was investigate the antibacterial effects GAPI on common oral pathogens. This laboratory used minimum inhibitory concentrations and bactericidal assess properties against Transmission electron microscopy examine bacterial morphology both before after ...

BACKGROUND The soft tissue around dental implants forms a barrier between the oral environment and the peri-implant bone and a crucial factor for long-term success of therapy is development of a good abutment/soft-tissue seal. Sol-gel derived nanoporous TiO2 coatings have been shown to enhance soft-tissue attachment but their effect on adhesion and biofilm formation by oral bacteria is unknown....