Complete genome sequence of a tetracycline-resistant Streptococcus mutans strain carrying the tet(M) gene.

INTRODUCTION

Tetracyclines are widely used in dental treatment. Here, we report the genomic information of the tetracycline-resistant Streptococcus mutans strain, HSM45, for the first time.

METHODS

Susceptibility to tetracycline was determined using the microdilution method. The complete genome sequence of HSM45 was determined and compared with public genome data.

RESULTS

HSM45 was resistant to tetracycline. The tetracycline resistance gene tet(M) was carried by Tn916, a conjugative transposon that is widely found in Gram-positive bacteria.

CONCLUSION

This study showed that S. mutans can acquire tetracycline resistance and it can also be a source of horizontal transfer of resistance genes.