Identification of DR75-RS11090 Gene Encoding GGDEF Domains, and its Role in <i>Enterococcus faecalis</i>

Abstract

Background: Enterococcus faecalis is considered the primary pathogenic bacteria in failed root canal therapy due to its excellent biofilm formation ability. The second messenger cyclic dimeric (3’→5’) GMP (c-di-GMP) is involved in bacterial physiological processes, including biofilm formation. C-di-GMP is formed by diguanylate cyclases with the GGDEF domain. Objectives: The current study aimed at investigating the function of DR75-RS11090 in E. faecalis. Methods: In the current experimental study, gene encoding GGDEF domains in E. faecalis were analyzed through National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) database. Enterococcus faecalis strains were cultured in brain-heart-infusion (BHI) broth at 37°C. Growth curves of E. faecalis were measured in an automatic microplate reader. Biofilms were fixed with 2% glutaraldehyde and scanned under the transmission electron microscopy. Acid and water-insoluble polysaccharide productions were also detected by the precise digital acidometer and anthrone method. Results: It was found that DR75-RS11090 gene was predicted to encode GGDEF domain in E. faecalis. The current study observed promoting effects of DR75-RS11090 on E. faecalis biofilm formation, growth, acid production, and water insoluble polysaccharide production. Conclusions: The current study findings improved the understanding of c-di-GMP in E. faecalis and presented a primary study on DR75-RS11090 promoting mechanism.