Expression of the glucan-binding lectin of Streptococcus cricetus requires manganous ion

Streptococcus cricetus AHT exhibited a requirement for manganese for growth and expression of the glucan-binding lectin. While low concentrations of manganese (0.1 to 10 microM) were able to support growth, higher concentrations (greater than 100 microM) were required for full expression of the glucan-binding lectin. The manganous-aquo ion may be important in cellular adhesion and accumulation processes in dental plaque.