Is the lipopeptide mutanobactin an inhibitor of health-associated oral bacteria?

Oral health maintenance relies significantly on the delicate balance within the oral microbiome. The probiotic Streptococcus dentisani and Rothia species are integral members of this microbial community, playing pivotal roles in oral ecology and health. Both have been shown to counteract the cariogenic pathogen Streptococcus mutans, thereby contributing to the maintenance of oral homeostasis. S. mutans produces a lipopeptide mutanobactin for which a broad-spectrum growth inhibitory effect on members of the oral biofilm community has been observed. This study delves into the potential inhibitory effects of lipopeptide mutanobactin on specifically health-associated species focusing on S. dentisani, R. aeria, R. denticariosa and R. mucilaginosa. Through a series of planktonic and biofilm growth assays, co-culture systems and multispecies biofilm assays, we elucidate the interaction dynamics between S. mutans and S. dentsani/ Rothia spp. and the role of mutanobactin D in this process. Our findings underscore the nuanced relationship between microbial agents and oral health, offering insights into the development of novel strategies for oral microbiome modulation and disease prevention.