NC_004350:1252500 Streptococcus mutans UA159, complete genome
Host Lineage: Streptococcus mutans; Streptococcus; Streptococcaceae; Lactobacillales; Firmicutes; Bacteria
General Information: This strain is a serotype c strain isolated from a child with active dental caries in 1982. Causes dental cavities. Streptococci are Gram-positive, nonmotile, nonsporeforming, catalase-negative cocci that occur in pairs or chains. Members of this genus vary widely in pathogenic potential. Most streptococci are facultative anaerobes, and some are obligate anaerobes. Serologic grouping is based on antigenic differences in cell wall carbohydrates, in cell wall pili-associated protein, and in the polysaccharide capsule in group B streptococci. This organism was first isolated in 1924 from human carious (cavities) lesions and is the main cause of tooth decay. This organism thrives in a bacterial community known as a dental plaque which forms on the surface of teeth. This organism has also been implicated in cases of infective endocarditis.