Streptococcus mutans

Streptococcus mutans is a Gram-positive bacterium of the oral cavity and the main causative agent of dental caries. It metabolises dietary sugars into acids that demineralise tooth enamel and produces glucans that promote dental plaque formation. If it enters the bloodstream it can also cause infective endocarditis. Its quantification is useful for caries risk assessment and oral microbiology research.

The OneqPCR-realtime™ Streptococcus mutans Kit is a ready-to-use assay for the specific detection of Streptococcus mutans DNA by real-time PCR (qPCR). Specific primers and a FAM-labelled hydrolysis probe amplify the target, while an internal control detected in the HEX channel reveals possible PCR inhibition or extraction failure. Positive and negative controls are included, and results can be analysed qualitatively or quantitatively using a standard curve.