Abstract
Free secretory piece (SP) was quantitated by single radial immunodiffusion in relation to a provisional standard preparation. The use of antiserum monospecific for the I determinant of SP eliminated the influence of bound SP (secretory IgA) on the test. Free SP was present in colostrum, nasal secretion, sweat, and normal as well as immunoglobulin‐deficient salivary secretions from adults. Stimulated normal parotid fluid contained an average of 1.2 mg/100 ml, and uhstimulated whole saliva 3.0 mg/100 ml. The ratio of free SP to IgA, however, was 0.32 in parotid fluid and 0.15 in whole saliva. Colostrum contained 209 mg/100 ml, with a free SP to IgA ratio of 0.16. The average content of free SP in immunoglobulin‐deficient parotid secretions was 2.1 mg/100 ml. This may indicate that less than half of the SP molecules synthesized in the parotid gland are normally complexed with IgA; but great individual variations probably exist.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
