Cariogenic Streptococcus mutans produces strain-specific antibiotics that impair commensal colonization

is a common constituent of dental plaque and an etiologic agent of dental caries (tooth decay). Here we elucidate a biosynthetic pathway, encoded by globally distributed strains of , which produces a series of bioactive small molecules including reutericyclin and two -acyl tetramic acid analogues active against oral commensal bacteria. This pathway may provide with a competitive advantage, promoting dysbiosis and caries pathogenesis.