Cariogenic Streptococcus mutans produces strain-specific antibiotics that impair commensal colonization

Streptococcus mutansis a common constituent of dental plaqueand an etiologic agent of dental caries (tooth decay). Here we elucidate a biosynthetic pathway, encoded by globally distributed strains of S. mutans, which produces a series of bioactive small molecules including reutericyclin and two N-acyl tetramicacid analogues active against oral commensalbacteria. This pathway may provide S. mutans with a competitive advantage, promoting dysbiosisand caries pathogenesis.