Streptococcus mutans

S. mutans is a gram positive bacterium commonly found in the human oral cavity. It is known to promote dental caries. S. mutans has been shown to elicit inflammation by stimulating cytokine production in the dental pulp below caries. When this inflammation reaches the intestines, it can contribute to dysbiosis, breakdown of intestinal barrier structures and the infiltration of S. mutans immunogens into circulation.

S. mutans is a gram positive bacterium commonly found in the human oral cavity. It is known to promote dental caries. S. mutans has been shown to elicit inflammation by stimulating cytokine production in the dental pulp below caries. When this inflammation reaches the intestines, it can contribute to dysbiosis, breakdown of intestinal barrier structures and the infiltration of S. mutans immunogens into circulation. Antibodies against S. mutans have long been recognized as cross-reactive to human heart tissues and thus, suspected of playing a role in heart disorders.