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Beyond Cell Division: the Ecological Roles of Autolysins in Oral Biofilm Communities

  • Microbiology (M Klein, Section Editor)
  • Published:
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

The goal of this review is to address the complicated nature of autolysins found among oral bacteria and the roles they play within the oral biofilm. The various functions of autolysins are discussed, as well as the regulation of autolysins and overall contribution to biofilms and the oral environment.

Recent Findings

With their many functions, bacterial autolysins can be understood as contributing to both cell physiology and population dynamics within the oral environment. Cell division, peptidoglycan turnover/remodeling, fratricide, and programmed cell death are all influenced, if not controlled, by autolysins. The release of nutrients and DNA as functional byproducts of lysins can alter the biofilm by affecting the growth and overall genetic makeup of the diverse bacteria.

Summary

Autolysins and their various functions contribute to biofilm formation, horizontal gene transfer, and the overall health of the oral cavity.

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Acknowledgements

This work was supported by an NIH-NIDCR grant DE021726 to J. K. and NIH-NIDCR grants DE018893 and DE022083 to J. M.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 940 Stanton L. Young Blvd., BMSB 1053, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA

    Nyssa Cullin

  2. Department of Restorative Dentistry, Oregon Health and Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Rd., MRB424, Portland, OR, 97239, USA

    Nyssa Cullin, Justin Merritt & Jens Kreth

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  1. Nyssa Cullin
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  2. Justin Merritt
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Cullin, N., Merritt, J. & Kreth, J. Beyond Cell Division: the Ecological Roles of Autolysins in Oral Biofilm Communities. Curr Oral Health Rep 4, 14–21 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40496-017-0118-2

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