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Background: However, there are some informations on the salivary glands involvement in systemic sclerosis, and there is a lack of any data about salivary glands function depending on systemic sclerosis subsets., Methods: The unstimulated and stimulated salivary flow, the activity of peroxidase, the total amount of lactoferrin, lysozyme and sIgA were determined in two subgroups of systemic sclerosis and healthy controls., Results: In the unstimulated saliva of both patients groups, the salivary flow, the output of total protein and peroxidase activity were significantly lower; the total: sIgA and lactoferrin were significantly higher as compared with the control. In the stimulated saliva of the patients with limited form, the total lysozyme and peroxidase activity were significantly higher than in the control. In the stimulated saliva of the patients with diffused form, the salivary flow was significantly lower and the total sIgA and peroxidase activity were significantly higher than in the control., Conclusion: Systemic sclerosis regardless of its subset affects salivary defense system of human unstimulated and stimulated saliva. Patients with the limited form experience the same impairment of the submandibular glands function as compared with patients with the diffused form. Only patients with the diffused form are deficient in respect of stimulated saliva secretion; the parotid glands of the patients with the limited form have a good secretory capacity in comparison with the healthy control., (© 2014 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Background: In spite of relatively large amount of evidence that oxidative stress is implicated in the pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis, there is no study analyzing antioxidants profile of the saliva of these patients. The aim of this study was to compare salivary antioxidants in subjects with systemic sclerosis and the healthy controls., Methods: The unstimulated and stimulated salivary flow and the specific activity of peroxidase, superoxide dismutase 1, the total amount of uric acid, and total antioxidant status were determined in two subgroups of systemic sclerosis women and healthy controls., Results: A significant increase in the specific activity of peroxidase, a significant decrease in the total amount of uric acid and total antioxidants status in unstimulated saliva as well as a significant increase in all antioxidants examined in stimulated saliva of group with normal salivary flow rate as compared to the healthy controls were observed. Our results showed a significant decrease in the specific activity of peroxidase in unstimulated and a significant decrease in all antioxidants examined in stimulated saliva of the group with hyposalivation as compared to the group with normal salivary flow rate., Conclusions: Our results prove that impairment of the salivary glands in the course of systemic sclerosis may be attributed to free radicals, and it is correlated with disease duration., (© 2013 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Background: Sarcoidosis and Sjögren's syndrome are two different diseases; however, when affecting the salivary glands, both diseases exhibit similar clinical signs and symptoms, which often complicates the diagnosis. The purpose of this study was to investigate the possibility of using salivary electrophoresis to differentiate between the two diseases., Methods: Saliva was collected from patients with sarcoidosis and patients with Sjögren's syndrome. Salivary flow rate, total protein, and electrophoretic profiles were examined., Results: Mean salivary flow rate was 0.41 ± 0.07 ml/min/gland vs. 0.43 ± 0.07 ml/min/gland; total salivary protein was 130.0 ± 29.2 mg% vs. 104.0 ± 8.8 mg% for sarcoidosis vs. Sjögren's syndrome, respectively. No differences were observed in salivary flow rate, total salivary protein, or electrophoretic profile between patients with sarcoidosis and patients with Sjögren's syndrome (P = 0.768, 0.718, and 1.000, respectively)., Conclusions: Salivary protein electrophoresis does not appear to be useful to differentiate between sarcoidosis and Sjögren's syndrome., (© 2013 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Background: Salivary immunoglobulin A (SIgA) together with innate defenses such as α-amylase, provides the 'first line of defense' against pathogens present at mucosal surfaces. This study aimed to evaluate salivary α-amylase and immunoglobulin A (IgA) in whole saliva of spastic cerebral palsy (CP) individuals., Methods: Whole saliva was collected from 22 CP and 24 sibling volunteers with no neurological damage control groups (CG) (aged 7-14 years). The salivary flow rate, total protein and SIgA concentrations, and α-amylase activity were determined., Results: The CP group presented higher salivary flow rate (35%) and lower total protein concentration (18%) compared with the CG (P ≤ 0.05). CPG had higher absolute (68%, μg SIgA/ml) and relative (55%, μg SIgA/mg prot and 108%, μg SIgA/min) concentrations of IgA compared with the CG (P ≤ 0.05). CPG had lower relative α-amylase activity (15% mg malt/mg prot and 33%, mg malt/min) compared with the CG (P ≤ 0.05)., Conclusion: This study concluded that CP individuals presented alterations in the profile of salivary proteins involved in the defense system of the oral cavity., (© 2013 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Objective: The aim of this preliminary study was analyze the possible alterations in some salivary interleukins, usually associated with the inflammatory processes., Material and Methods: The study comprised three groups: group 1, with 26 cases with bisphosphonates-related osteonecrosis of the jaws (BRONJ). Group 2, with 29 patients who had received iBF but without BRONJ. Group 3, with 26 control patients not treated with BF and without oral lesions. We collected unstimulated whole saliva in all groups. A semiquantitative study was performed based on a cytokine array panel. We used the proteome profiler array for the study. We analyzed: Interleukin 1 alpha (IL-1α), interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RA), and interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β)., Results: We found higher salivary values for all the cytokines studied in group 1 than in group 2 and 3. IL-1β showed the major differences compared with control group. (P < 0.05), Conclusions: This preliminary study confirms that there are alterations in these interleukins in patients with BRONJ. These results give support to further additional salivary studies on these biomarkers by quantitative measures., (© 2012 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by Blackwell Publishing Ltd.)

Background: The objectives of this study were to determine (i) the expression of oral secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI) in HIV-infected subjects compared with non-HIV controls, (ii) the oral SLPI expression in HIV-infected subjects with antiretroviral therapy (ART) compared with those without ART, and (iii) factors associated with the expression of oral SLPI., Methods: Oral tissues and samples of both un-stimulated and stimulated saliva were collected from HIV-infected subjects with and without ART, and non-HIV individuals. The expression of SLPI mRNA in the tissue was determined by quantitative real-time PCR. Salivary SLPI protein was detected using ELISA. Chi-square test and logistic regression analysis were performed to determine the association between HIV/ART status and the expression of oral SLPI., Results: One hundred and fifty-seven HIV-infected subjects were enrolled: 99 on ART (age range, 23-57 years; mean, 39 years), 58 not on ART (age range, 20-59 years; mean, 34 years), and 50 non-HIV controls (age range, 19-59 years; mean, 36 years). The most common ART regimen was 2NRTIs + 1NNRTI. The expression of oral SLPI in stimulated saliva was significantly decreased with HIV infection (P < 0.001). The expression was also significantly different with respect to ART use (P = 0.007). Smoking, CD4(+) cell count, and HIV viral load were the factors associated with the oral SLPI expression., Conclusion: The expression of oral SLPI is altered by HIV infection and use of ART. Thus, oral SLPI may be the useful biomarker to identify subjects at risk of infections and malignant transformation due to HIV infection and long-term ART., (© 2012 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by Blackwell Publishing Ltd.)

Background: The objectives of this study were to determine (i) oral hBD2 expression in HIV-infected subjects compared with non-HIV controls, (ii) the expression of oral hBD2 in HIV-infected subjects with antiretroviral therapy (ART) compared with those without ART, and (iii) factors associated with the expression of oral hBD2., Methods: Oral examination and punched biopsy on buccal mucosa were performed in HIV-infected subjects with and without ART, and non-HIV individuals. The expression of hBD2 mRNA was determined by quantitative real-time PCR. Saliva samples of both un-stimulated and stimulated saliva were collected and analyzed for hBD2 levels using ELISA. Student's t-test and nonparametric multi-way ANOVA test were used for comparison of measurements between or among groups., Results: One hundred and fifty-seven HIV-infected subjects were enrolled: 99 on ART (age range, 23-57 years; mean 39 years), 58 not on ART (age range, 20-59 years; mean 34 years), and 50 non-HIV controls (age range, 19-59 years; mean 36 years). The most common ART regimen was two nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors + one non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor. Salivary levels of hBD2 were significantly increased in HIV infection (P < 0.001). The levels of hBD2 in stimulated saliva were also found to be significantly different between HIV-infected subjects who were and were not on ART (P < 0.001). No significant difference was observed with the expression of hBD2 mRNA., Conclusion: Oral innate immunity is affected by HIV infection and use of ART. Salivary hBD2 levels may be the useful biomarkers to monitor those on long-term ART who are at risk of developing oral infections and malignant transformation., (© 2012 John Wiley & Sons A/S.)

Background: Mucoepidermoid carcinomas are the most frequent malignant neoplasia of the salivary glands and are histologically classified as low, intermediate, and high grade. At present, histochemical stains such as periodic acid-Schiff or mucicarmine are useful tools in making a diagnosis. Recently, expression of the PLUNC proteins has been described in mucin-producing salivary gland tumors, with the suggestion that they could provide a powerful tool for the diagnosis of difficult cases., Methods: This study evaluates the expression of PLUNC proteins in 30 cases of salivary gland mucoepidermoid carcinomas. Tumors were reviewed and classified according to histological grade. Periodic acid-Schiff, mucicarmine, and immunohistochemical staining for SPLUNC1, LPLUNC1, SPLUNC2, and LPLUNC2 were carried out. Immunostaining was classified as positive or negative., Results: The majority of the tumors (63%) were classified as low grade, 13% were intermediate grade, and 23% were high grade. SPLUNC1 (90%) and LPLUNC1 (93%) were positive in the majority of cases, mainly in mucous cells, mucin plugs, and intermediate cells. SPLUNC2 and LPLUNC2 did not present significative expression within the tumors; however, LPLUNC2 was found to stain positively in mast cells in 83% of the samples., Conclusions: SPLUNC1 and LPLUNC1 showed a similar pattern of expression and could prove useful in the diagnosis of high-grade cases because of the differential staining in intermediate and epidermoid cells. The expression of LPLUNC2 in mast cells has not previously been reported, but further studies are necessary to validate this finding and to determine its significance., (© 2012 John Wiley & Sons A/S.)

Aims: This study evaluated the salivary biochemical and immunological status of children with cancer undergoing to antineoplasic treatment in an attempt to identify alternatives for a less invasive and less painful monitoring of these patients., Materials and Methods: Unstimulated whole saliva samples were obtained from 115 children without cancer (control) and 32 children with cancer (CA). Children with cancer were also evaluated after antineoplasic treatment (CAT, n = 17). The salivary concentrations of glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol, alkaline phosphatase, gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT), urea, insulin, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), triiodothyronine (T3), levothyroxine (T4), and immunoglobulin A (IgA) were determined., Results: Acute lymphocytic leukemia, acute myeloid leukemia, and Hodgkin's lymphoma were the most frequent cancers, although cases of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, medulloblastoma, ependymoma, osteosarcoma, nephroblastoma, Ewing's sarcoma, and endodermal sinus tumor were also observed. The salivary concentration of cholesterol, triglycerides, or GGT did not differ between groups. Instead, the concentrations of alkaline phosphatase and T4 were higher in patients with cancer, irrespective of treatment. TSH levels were higher in the CA group and urea concentration was lower in the CAT group. T3 was undetectable in all groups. Antineoplasic treatment increased the glucose level and decreased the insulin concentration. Salivary concentration of total IgA was lower in children with cancer, irrespective of treatment., Conclusions: Cancer and antineoplasic treatment affected biochemical and immunological parameters in the saliva of children, shedding new light on the potential usefulness of saliva for monitoring children with cancer, especially to patients undergoing immunosuppressive therapy., (© 2012 John Wiley & Sons A/S.)

Objective: The purpose of the present study is to evaluate the relationships between occupational exposure to mine dust, salivary antioxidants and their possible implications in the pathogenicity of different exposure diseases., Material and Methods: We studied 30 individuals with long-term occupational exposure to non-ferrous metal mine conditions and a control group consisted of 30 healthy volunteers. Salivary uric acid, gammaglutamyltransferase (GGT), albumin and the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were measured., Results: Statistically significant differences in salivary GGT (P = 0.004), TAC (P < 0.001) and uric acid (P = 0.02) were noted between the two groups. A strong positive correlation between TAC and uric acid was recorded in controls (r = 0.76, P = 0.0002)., Conclusions: Saliva may provide an important line of antioxidant defense in humans exposed to oxidant threats. These components may also serve as convenient biomarkers to monitor oxidant exposure., (© 2012 John Wiley & Sons A/S.)

Background: This study focuses on the potential of ReGeneraTing Agent OTR4120 (RGTA-OTR4120) to treat radiation-induced damage of salivary glands. RGTAs are biopolymers designed to mimic the effects of heparan sulphate, thereby stimulation tissue repair and regeneration., Methods: C3H mice were irradiated with a single dose of 15 Gy in the head and neck region. RGTA-OTR4120 was injected 24 h after radiotherapy, followed by weekly injections. At 2, 6 and 10 weeks after radiotherapy, salivary flow rates were measured and animals were sacrificed to obtain parotid and submandibular glands for histology. Periodic acid Schiff stain was performed to visualize mucins that are produced by acinar cells. Amylase and total protein content were measured in saliva samples., Results: Salivary flow rates were increased at 2 weeks, but not at 6 and 10 weeks after radiotherapy with RGTA-OTR4120 administration, compared to irradiated controls. Two and 10 weeks after radiotherapy, the mucin production activity of acinar cells was increased under influence of RGTA administration. RGTA-OTR4120 did not influence amylase or total protein secretion., Conclusion: RGTA-OTR4120 administration has a positive effect on salivary flow rates in irradiated mice on the short term. The effect was absent 10 weeks after radiotherapy, while at that time point, mucin producing activity of acinar cells was elevated by RGTA-OTR4120 administration. Given these results and the advantages of RGTA use in irradiated patients, further investigation on the potential of this drug to treat radiation-induced salivary gland damage, alone or in combination with other drugs, such as amifostine, is suggested., (© 2012 John Wiley & Sons A/S.)

Background: Oxidative stress has been implicated in the pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus (DM). Levels of 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), 8-epi-prostaglandin-F(2α) (8-epi-PGF2α), and total protein carbonyls were measured to assess whether DM is associated with altered salivary redox homeostasis., Methods: A total of 215 patients with diabetes and 481 healthy controls were recruited from the Department of Endocrinology at the Jewish General Hospital in Montreal. Levels of oxidative biomarkers were assayed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in whole unstimulated saliva. Associations of the redox data with exposure to insulin, metformin and dietary control were assessed by logistic regression analyses., Results: We observed (i) significantly higher mean levels of 8-OHdG and protein carbonyls in whole unstimulated saliva of patients with diabetes compared to controls, (ii) higher mean levels of protein carbonyls in type 1 diabetes as well as higher mean levels of 8-OHdG and protein carbonyls in type 2 diabetes compared to controls, (iii) elevated levels of protein carbonyls in diet-controlled patients and in patients with diabetes on insulin and metformin, (iv) elevated levels of 8-OHdG in patients on metformin, and (v) significant associations between subjects with DM and salivary 8-OHdG and protein carbonyls., Conclusion: DM is associated with increased oxidative modification of salivary DNA and proteins. Salivary redox homeostasis is perturbed in DM and may inform on the presence of the disease and efficacy of therapeutic interventions., (© 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.)

Background: Disturbances in homeostatic functions have been observed in individuals with cerebral palsy (CP), possibly resulting from autonomic dysfunction. Salivary flow rate and saliva composition are controlled by the autonomic nervous system, and CP individuals exhibit alterations in salivary parameters that suggest autonomic impairment. This study aimed to investigate cardiac parameters as indicative of autonomic disturbances, possibly associated with salivary changes observed in CP individuals., Methods: Ninety individuals with CP were compared with 35 sibling volunteers with no neurological damage (CG). Twenty-four-hour ECG/Holter monitoring (SEER(®) Light; GE Medical Systems, Milwaukee, WI, USA) and 12-lead electrocardiographic recordings were performed on the CP and control groups. Total saliva was collected, and the salivary flow rate and total protein concentration were determined., Results:  Cerebral palsy (CP) individuals presented a significant reduction in salivary flow rate (P < 0.01) and increased protein concentrations (P < 0.01) compared to CG. Twenty-four-hour Holter ECG analysis showed differences for high frequency (HF), low frequency (LF) and LF/HF ratio between the groups, with the CP group presenting higher HF and LF values and lower LF/HF. Electrocardiographic parameters showed a statistically significant difference for heart rate, and its correlates, and mean corrected QT interval between the groups studied (P < 0.05). Snoring was frequent among CP patients. ECG and autonomic changes were independently associated with CP., Conclusion: Individuals with cerebral palsy present cardiovascular changes principally manifested as disturbed sympathovagal balance. These autonomic dysfunctions could contribute to the salivary changes observed., (© 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.)

Background: Cystic fibrosis (CF) is characterized by altered exocrine secretions; however, no comprehensive compositional profile of CF serous and mucous saliva secretions has been published., Design: We analyzed salivary flow rate and composition, and oxidative stress-related parameters, comparing CF patients with non-CF bronchiectasis patients and the healthy controls., Results: Median salivary magnesium concentration and lactate dehydrogenase activity were significantly lower in CF patients than in the healthy controls. Salivary total protein concentration was 45% higher in CF patients than in non-CF bronchiectasis patients. CF patients showed 8% lower levels of peroxidase compared with non-CF bronchiectasis. Salivary total antioxidant status, superoxide dismutase and uric acid values in the CF group were higher by 15%, 35% and 31%, respectively, than in both control groups., Conclusions: Cystic fibrosis patients demonstrated altered salivary profile, especially in antioxidant enzymatic and molecular activity, possibly resulting from the oral cavity's ongoing inflammatory and oxidative process. Free radical mechanisms may be involved in CF pathogenesis.

Background: Reduction in salivary secretion is the hallmark of Sjögren's syndrome (SS). Calmodulin (CaM) and calmodulin binding proteins (CaMBPs) play a key role in the secretory process of saliva. Recent studies have suggested that SS-B, an autoantibody associated with SS, is a CaMBP. This finding suggests that CaMBP may contribute to the loss of saliva in SS. To better understand the role(s) of these proteins in SS, the purpose of this study was to compare salivary CaMBPs in Sjögren's patients and controls., Methods: Saliva samples were collected from 20 patients and 20 age-, race-, and gender-matched controls. CaM overlay was used to identify CaMBPs in saliva of patients and controls., Results: Higher number of salivary CaMBPs was observed among patients than controls., Conclusions: The increased number of salivary CaMBPs in SS may suggest a potential role for these proteins in the pathogenesis of the disease.

Background: Technologies are now available enabling saliva to be used to diagnose disease, predict disease progression, and monitor therapeutic efficacy. This pilot study describes the use of surface-enhanced laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (SELDI) to detect putative breast cancer markers in saliva., Methods: Salivary specimens were analyzed as either pooled cancer saliva specimens, or individual specimens from healthy women and women diagnosed with carcinoma of the breast. The specimens were applied to a variety of protein chip arrays, washed extensively to remove unbound analytes and analyzed on a SELDI mass spectrometer., Results: The results of this initial study suggest that the WCX protein chip array prepared and washed at pH 3.5 yielded the most promising results. Additionally, the analyses revealed a number of proteins that were higher in intensity among the cancer subjects when compared with controls. These salivary proteins were present at the 18, 113, 170, 228 and 287 km/z ranges using SELDI analyses., Conclusions: The study suggests that saliva may be useful for high-throughput biomarker discovery.

Background: The purpose of this study was to compare the sensitivity of parotid saliva to that of serum in detecting anti-SSA/Ro and anti-SSB/La autoantibodies in patients with Sjögren's syndrome., Methods: Forty patients and 20 controls participated in the study; all patients met the 1993 European Community criteria for the diagnosis of Sjögren's syndrome. Healthy controls were age- and sex-matched individuals with no signs or symptoms of Sjögren's syndrome. Serum and saliva samples were evaluated using AffiniTech SSA/Ro and SSB/La antibodies kits (AffiniTech, Ltd. Bentonville, AR, USA). The results were also compared with serological status of SS-A and SS-B as reported by an independent clinical laboratory., Results: Serum was significantly more sensitive than saliva in detecting SSA/Ro and SSB/La antibodies (P = 0.001). There was high agreement between the results with the AffiniTech kits and the independent laboratory (kappa = 0.80; P < 0.001). However, there was poor agreement between saliva and serum results (kappa = 0.174; P = 0.168)., Conclusions: The overall results appear to support that serum analysis is effective method for evaluating the presence of SS-A and SS-B autoantibodies.

Background: Antimicrobial peptides in saliva appear to play a crucial role in the regulation of oral Candida growth, and study on antimicrobial excretion in saliva and oral candidiasis appears useful for the analysis of pathophysiology of oral candidiasis., Methods: To clarify the role of saliva in the regulation of oral Candida growth, the levels of antimicrobial proteins and peptides and their excretion rates were examined in saliva obtained from 50 patients with oral candidiasis and 35 healthy individuals., Results: The inhibitory activities of patients' saliva against Candida adhesion with HeLa cells and against Candida growth (radiolabeled glucose incorporation) were lower than those of saliva from the healthy controls. The salivary levels of lactoferrin (Lf; 11 +/- 9 microg/ml), secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA; 160 +/- 37 microg/ml), beta-defensin 1 (375 +/- 37 ng/ml), and beta-defensin 2 (412 +/- 51 ng/ml) in the patients were largely lower than those in the control group (33 +/- 14 microg/ml, 204 +/- 51 microg/ml, 452 +/- 89 ng/ml, and 530 +/- 142 ng/ml, respectively), although the transferrin (Tf) and secretory component (SC) levels were almost same in both groups, and alpha-defensin 1 was slightly increased in the patient group (660 +/- 115 ng/ml vs. 467 +/- 168 ng/ml). In addition, the excretion rates of the proteins and peptides were largely decreased in the patients (Tf: 14 +/- 2 microg/10 min vs. 34 +/- 7 microg/10 min; Lf: 18 +/- 11 microg/10 min vs. 139 +/- 43 microg/10 min; sIgA: 300 +/- 132 microg/10 min vs. 900 +/- 207 microg/10 min; SC: 112 +/- 46 microg/10 min vs. 292 +/- 64 microg/10 min; alpha-defensin 1: 1223 +/- 431 ng/10 min vs. 2044 +/- 612 ng/10 min; beta-defensin 1: 687 +/- 243 ng/10 min vs. 1985 +/- 295 ng/10 min; and beta-defensin 2: 784 +/- 299 ng/10 min vs. 2288 +/- 278 ng/10 min)., Conclusion: These results conclusively suggest that oral candidiasis is associated with salivary gland hypofunction and that decreases of salivary antibacterial proteins induce Candida overgrowth.

Background: Approximately 1 woman in every 10 will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. It has been shown that screening for breast cancer can reduce breast cancer mortality. The use of a saliva-based test could prove to be very useful in post-operative and/or adjunctive therapy management of breast cancer patients., Methods: The following study was undertaken to establish the possible usefulness of the salivary protein product of the oncogene c-erbB-2 in following patients diagnosed with carcinoma of the breast. Included in this study were 25 patients with a mean age of 54 years with varying histological diagnoses and stages of carcinoma of the breast. ELISA assays for c-erbB-2 and CA 15-3 were performed on serum and stimulated whole saliva samples collected on all patients prior to any adjunct therapy or surgery and sequentially during therapy., Results: The results of the GLM analyses using marker concentration as the dependent variable and treatment regimen and the serial assessments as independent variables yielded a significant overall model for both the serum (P < 0.007) and salivary (P < 0.017) c-erbB-2 markers. The model for serum c-erbB-2, however, exhibited a significant difference for treatment regimen (P < 0.001) with the chemotherapy and radiation treatment regimen being significantly different (P < 0.001) from the other treatment therapies. Time (serial assessments) was not significant. The model for the salivary c-erbB-2 marker was reversed. Treatment regimen was not significant for this model; however, time (serial assessments) was significant (P < 0.002). The serum and salivary CA 15-3 marker models yielded no significant results. Paired t-test analyses indicated that only the salivary c-erbB-2 concentrations exhibited a significant difference between the pre- and post-therapy values (t = 4.245, P < 0.0001). Additionally, salivary c-erbB-2 displayed greater percent reductions across all therapies as compared to the other markers., Conclusions: This preliminary study appears to indicate that c-erbB-2 protein expression in saliva may be a very useful diagnostic tool for measuring patient response to chemotherapy and/or surgical treatment of their disease.

Sjögren's syndrome is an autoimmune condition affecting the lacrimal and salivary glands and can be associated with rheumatoid arthritis and primary biliary cirrhosis. Parotid salivas collected from patients and normal controls were analysed for lactoferrin, IgA and beta2-microglobulin (measured by ELISA), and cystatin (measured by a enzyme inhibition assay). Output data provided less variable means, whilst expressing results as a proportion of the total protein provided greater specificity as markers for Sjögren's syndrome. Levels of specificity for IgA, lactoferrin and beta2-microglobulin were all high (100, 95 and 100%, respectively). Sensitivity levels of these markers (but not cystatin) tended to be similar for Sjögren's syndrome secondary to primary biliary cirrhosis (IgA, 25%; lactoferrin, 63%; and beta2-microglobulin, 50%), compared to Sjögren's syndrome secondary to connective tissue diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis (IgA, 50%; lactoferrin, 86%; and beta2-microglobulin; 38%).

The level of salivary histatins was evaluated in 20 patients with a history of recurrent oral candidiasis and in age-, sex-matched healthy controls. Salivary pH, flow rate, total protein and histatins were compared. Results of this study indicated that salivary pH was significantly lower among patients than controls (5.9 vs. 6.3, respectively, P = 0.002). No significant difference was observed in the mean flow rate and total protein between patients and controls (0.39 ml/min/gland vs. 0.46 ml/min/gland and 112.4 mg% vs. 113.0 mg%, respectively). However, the mean salivary histatin levels were significantly higher among patients than controls, both in terms of concentration (16.8 mg% vs. 11.1 mg%, P = 0.016) as well as a ratio of total protein (15 mg/g vs. 10 mg/g, P = 0.018). These findings indicate that oral candidiasis is associated with increased levels of salivary histatin. Such a finding suggests that oral candidiasis may modulate the levels of salivary histatin.

We examined the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha in luminal fluid of 18 extravasation mucoceles and in saliva from Wharton's duct of five patients by means of gelatin zymography and enzyme immunoassay, respectively. The luminal fluid showed a high level of MMP activity compared with the saliva. Quantitative determination by enzyme immunoassay revealed that the luminal fluid contained higher levels of TNF-alpha than the saliva. In addition, the amount of TNF-alpha in luminal fluid exhibited a direct correlation with MMP activity estimated by densitometric analysis of gelatin zymograms. Since TNF-alpha stimulates the production of MMPs from cells such as fibroblasts, these results suggest that TNF-alpha is one of the causal molecules that enhance the accumulation of proteolytic enzymes in luminal fluid of mucoceles.

Several salivary proteins were assayed in saliva from epileptic patients who were using different anti-epileptic drugs, viz, phenytoin, valproate and carbamazepine, and were compared with levels in unmedicated healthy control subjects. Flow rate and pH of the patient groups were not different from the controls. In all patient groups the specific amylase activity was increased up to twofold. In the phenytoin group only, the salivary IgA concentration was strongly reduced. Levels of salivary cystatin C were similar among all patient groups studied, and were not different from those of the control group. In contrast, the absolute and relative concentrations of cystatin S were diminished, particularly in patients using either valproate or phenytoin. These data suggest that use of anti-epileptic drugs over long periods may result in decreased levels of several salivary proteins such as sIgA and cystatins, which are involved in the protection of the oral cavity against microbial infections.

Stimulated parotid salivary flow rates were compared in elderly normotensive, hypertensive, and controlled hypertensive African-Americans, the latter group taking hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ). The normotensive group consisted of 15 healthy unmedicated subjects with systolic blood pressures of less than 150 mm Hg and diastolic pressures less than 90 mm Hg. The hypertensive group consisted of 10 unmedicated subjects with systolic pressures greater than 160 mm Hg and diastolic pressures greater than 100 mm Hg. The controlled hypertensive group consisted of 20 subjects taking HCTZ (50 mg, daily) with controlled blood pressures similar to the normotensive control group. Stimulated parotid salivary samples were collected from each subject. A 2% citrate solution applied to the dorsum of the tongue was used for stimulation. The results showed no significant differences in stimulated parotid flow rates between normotensive and uncontrolled hypertensive subjects. However, the medicated, controlled hypertensive subjects had a significant reduction of stimulated parotid salivary flow rates compared to both the normotensive and hypertensive groups.

This study examined parotid salivary flow rate and composition in three groups of differently treated diabetics and a control group of non-diabetics. The study population was composed of edentulous African-Americans at least 65 years of age. Group A was the control, Group B insulin-dependent (Regular Iletin, U-100 qd.), Group C controlled by oral medication (Tolbutamide, 500 mg qd.), and Group D was diet controlled. All diabetic patients had serum glucose values under 250 mg/dl. Salivary flow rates, secretory IgA, electrolytes (Na+, Cl-, K+, Ca++) and total protein concentrations were evaluated. The results showed no significant differences between groups with respect to salivary flow rates, electrolytes and IgA concentrations. Additionally, all diabetic groups demonstrated a significantly lower salivary total protein concentration when compared to the controls. There appears to be no evident decrease in salivary flow rate in these three differently controlled diabetic groups compared with healthy non-diabetics.

Two new saliva stimulants: V6 and a mucin containing chewing gum were tested in this placebo-controlled double-blind crossover study. Forty-three patients (mean age 63 yr) complaining of dry mouth participated. The products were administered in a randomized order, and used for 2 wk each. The effect was evaluated by interviews and by determining changes in stimulated and unstimulated saliva flow rates. A positive effect was reported by 64%, 44%, and 26% of the patients using the mucin chewing gum, V6, and the placebo, respectively. More than 2/3 of the patients found the mucin chewing gum efficient at various times and situations. Sixty-one percent of the patients preferred the mucin chewing gum, 21% V6, and 5% the placebo product. Fifty percent of the patients had an increase in unstimulated salivary secretion rate from all products after 14 days regular use indicating a long-term effect.

Unstimulated whole saliva samples of 27 indoor epileptic patients were studied on their protein composition using biochemical and immunochemical methods. A number of salivary proteins appeared at least partially to be hydrolyzed. In a number of saliva samples the concentration of carbohydrate-containing isoenzymes of amylase was reduced. In addition, the concentration of the 20 kD glycoprotein EP-GP was reduced by 60%. Sialic acid, the terminal sugar of the glycoproteins and mucins, was released for about 50% and in three salivas even nearly completely. Moreover, sialic acid- and fucose-containing epitopes could hardly be detected by monoclonal antibodies to human salivary mucins. As a consequence of this hydrolytic breakdown the saliva mediated aggregation of two S. sanguis strains had been reduced. In contrast, the aggregation of S. oralis had been maintained.

Immunotherapy with high doses of interleukin-2 (IL-2) in patients with metastatic cancer is accompanied by multiorgan side effects. To determine the effect of this treatment on oral tissues, 5 cancer patients receiving a course of recombinant IL-2 (rIL-2) were followed. Oral pathology and subjective oral complaints were noted. Whole saliva parameters and routine blood and urine values were recorded daily before, during and after treatment. Mucositis and diminution of salivary flow occurred in all patients. Concomitantly, salivary sodium and protein were elevated.

This work aimed to characterize parotid gland function in autoimmune disease-prone murine strains (MRL/n, MRL/l and NZB/W) in relation to increasing age and to relate the extent of functional impairment to the intensity of histopathologic changes observed at the different ages. Pilocarpine-stimulated parotid saliva was collected to assess salivary flow rate and composition. Parotid tissue was then removed for histopathologic assessment. Parotid flow rates were not significantly reduced in autoimmune strains compared to controls but were reduced with age in NZB/W mice and in males of the C57 (control) strain. Age-related salivary compositional changes were present in MRL/l mice and in male NZB/W mice. Focal lymphocytic adenitis increased with age in prevalence and intensity in both sexes. The functional and histopathologic changes were not closely correlated. These results suggest that the parotid gland of autoimmune disease-prone mice provides only a poor replication of the salivary changes in human Sjögren's syndrome. Nevertheless, both the functional and histopathological changes developing in these strains, even though of limited extent, are significantly influenced by age.

The effects of long-term beta-adrenoceptor stimulation or inhibition on parotid and submandibular glands, saliva secretion, and caries development were studied. Groups of rats were treated daily with: 0.5 or 5 mg/kg body weight of isoproterenol (IPR), 0.5 or 5 mg/kg bw propranolol (PRO), or saline. After 42 days, saliva was collected and analyzed for secretion rate, total protein, amylase, sialic acid and electrolytes. Total protein and amylase in saliva decreased and potassium increased in the high IPR group. Phosphate increased in both IPR groups and decreased in the high PRO group. The average weight of parotid glands increased 3.7 times in the high IPR group and 1.8 times in the low IPR group. Amylase and total protein in parotid gland extracts decreased in both IPR groups. The submandibular gland weight increased 1.5 times in the high IPR group. Total protein decreased in the high IPR group. There was no difference in caries development.

Parotid and submandibular gland function were evaluated in 12 HIV-1 antibody-positive men at two visits separated by a median interval of 14.5 months (range 6-22 months). Unstimulated and stimulated flow rates, and the concentrations of total protein, lysozyme, albumin and lactoferrin in these secretions, were determined. Parotid and submandibular gland secretions changed in a specific fashion with time. Lysozyme levels in both glandular stimulated secretions showed significant changes (approximately 40% and 70% elevated, between visits, in parotid and submandibular saliva, respectively). In addition, the frequency with which albumin was detected in unstimulated parotid secretions increased with time. These findings support earlier results suggesting the presence of alterations in major salivary gland function following HIV-1 infection. Submandibular gland function appears to manifest these alterations earlier, but with time the parotid secretions show similar changes.