Expression of an Extracellular Protein (SMU.63) Is Regulated by SprV in Streptococcus mutans

Abstract

We previously identified a pleiotropic regulator, SprV, in Streptococcus mutans . This regulator appears to be highly conserved among streptococci. Here, we showed that SprV regulates the expression of a secreted protein encoded by SMU.63 in S. mutans . SMU.63 has been known to impact biofilm formation and genetic competence, two important characteristics that help in colonization of the organism. SMU.63 is also unique since it is known to form amyloid fiber. We found that SprV regulates the expression of SMU.63 at both the transcriptional and translational levels. We also found that the expression of SprV is regulated by magnesium ion concentration. Interestingly, both low and high magnesium ion concentrations affected biofilm formation and genetic competence. Since SMU.63 is also highly conserved among streptococci, we hypothesized that SprV will have a similar effect on its expression.