Investigation of the potential regulator proteins associated with the expression of major surface protein and dentilisin in .

is involved in 'chronic' periodontitis pathogenesis. The mechanism underlying the regulation of the expression of its virulence factors, such as major surface protein (Msp) and prolyl-phenylalanine specific protease (dentilisin) is yet to be clarified. We determined the gene expression profiles of Msp- and dentilisin-deficient mutants of to identify the regulation network of gene expression concomitant with the inactivation of these virulence genes. Gene expression profiles of ATCC 35405 (wild type), dentilisin-deficient mutant K1, and deficient mutant DMSP3 were determined using DNA microarray analysis and quantitative real-time reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR). Msp and dentilisin protein levels were determined by immunoblotting and proteolytic activity assays. In addition to several differentially expressed genes, dentilisin expression was reduced in DMSP3; expression was significantly reduced in K1 (p < 0.05), both at the gene and protein levels. To identify the regulatory system involved, the expression levels of the potential regulators whose expression showed changes in the mutants were evaluated using qRT-PCR. Transcriptional regulators TDE_0127 and TDE_0814 were upregulated in K1, and the potential repressor, TDE_0344, was elevated in DMSP3. Dentilisin and Msp expression were interrelated, and gene expression regulators, such as TDE_0127, may be involved in their regulation.