NC_009785:130252 Streptococcus gordonii str. Challis substr. CH1, complete genome
Host Lineage: Streptococcus gordonii; Streptococcus; Streptococcaceae; Lactobacillales; Firmicutes; Bacteria
General Information: Normal human oral flora. 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. Streptococcus gordonii is a commensal member of the human oral flora. It initiates the formation of biofilms on tooth surfaces known as dental plaque, which is strongly associated with the development of dental cavities (caries) and gum disease. It is a frequent causative agent of bacterial endocarditis (inflammation of the membrane lining the heart) which often occurs as a result of oral trauma, allowing S. gordonii to invade the bloodstream and colonize the heart.