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Streptococcus mutans  ( S. mutans ) is generally regarded as a major contributor to dental caries because of its ability to synthesize extracellular polysaccharides (EPS) that aid in the formation of plaque biofilm. The VicRKX system of  S. mutans  plays an important role in biofilm formation. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of  vicK  gene on specific characteristics of EPS in  S. mutans  biofilm. We constructed single-species biofilms formed by different mutants of  vicK  gene. Production and distribution of EPS were detected through atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy. Microcosmic structures of EPS were analyzed by gel permeation chromatography and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Cariogenicity of the  vicK  mutant was assessed in a specific pathogen-free rat model. Transcriptional levels of cariogenicity-associated genes were confirmed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. The results showed that deletion of  vicK  gene suppressed biofilm formation as well as EPS production, and EPS were synthesized mostly around the cells. Molecular weight and monosaccharide components underwent evident alterations. Biofilms formed in vivo were sparse and contributed a decreased degree of caries. Moreover, expressional levels of genes related to EPS synthesis were down-regulated, except for  gtfB . Our report demonstrates that  vicK  gene enhances biofilm formation and subsequent caries development. And this may due to its regulations on EPS metabolism, like synthesis or microcosmic features of EPS. This study suggests that  vicK  gene and EPS can be considered as promising targets to modulate dental caries.

The vicK gene of Streptococcus mutans mediates its cariogenicity via exopolysaccharides metabolism