Paper Abstract
A 14 page discussion of the physiological mechanism employed by this species of oral bacteria which allow it to exist in the rapidly fluctuating pH levels of the human mouth. The author details how the cellular membrane of the organism is critical in this process, selectively allowing protons to pass out of the cell and preventing them from passing into the cell. This ability allows S. mutans a selective advantage. Acidogenicity (the ability to generate acid) and acidurance (the ability to function in an acidic environment) are the primary physiological traits of this organism which make it such an important factor in the production of dental caries as well. Bibliography lists 7 sources.
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