Stimulated Saliva Secretion Research Articles

Safety and effect of a new artificial saliva containing Zingiber officinale and Cuminum cyminum on stimulating saliva secretion: In vitro, in vivo and preliminary clinical study

IntroductionXerostomia is a symptom that affects quality of life and may lead to malnutrition. While artificial saliva is used as a lubricant for the oral cavity, it rarely stimulates saliva secretion. The objective of this study was to develop a herbal artificial saliva (HAS) that could stimulate saliva secretion and be safe for human consumption. MethodsThree HAS formulations were prepared with 0.3 % Cuminum cyminum extract and 0.05 %, 0.10 %, and 0.15 % Zingiber officinale extract (HAS0.05, HAS 0.10, and HAS0.15, respectively). In vivo skin and oral mucosal irritation tests were used to evaluate the safety of HAS0.15. Additionally, the preliminary efficacy and safety of the three HAS formulations were investigated in 21 healthy volunteers. The sample was sprayed into the oral cavity under the left and right sides of the tongue. Thirty minutes after spraying, the amount of saliva was assessed using a visual analogue scale and a Schirmer strip. In addition, dry mouth symptoms, the saliva pH, and adverse reactions were assessed before and after testing. ResultsHAS0.15 caused minimal skin irritation and did not alter the epithelium or other structures of the oral mucosa. The saliva quantity after using HAS0.10 and HAS0.15 was significantly higher than prior to testing (p < 0.05). None of the formulations induced mucositis or adverse reactions. ConclusionThis study was successful in the development of a new HAS that stimulated saliva secretion and was safe for humans. However, this study is preliminary: Further clinical investigation in patients with hyposalivation will confirm the efficacy of this novel HAS. This novel HAS may be an alternative treatment for the elderly and patients with hyposalivation.

Interventional Prospective Studies on Xerostomia in Patients Undergoing Palliative and End-of-Life Care: A Scoping Review.

Patients undergoing palliative care often develop debilitating oral conditions, including xerostomia. These conditions may significantly impact patients' quality of life. Despite the high prevalence and adverse impact of xerostomia, effective management strategies remain unclear. This scoping review was performed to elucidate effective interventions for xerostomia in patients undergoing palliative and end-of-life care. A comprehensive search strategy was employed to identify relevant studies up to August 2023. Full-text primary articles focusing on xerostomia in patients receiving palliative care were included in the review. Eleven articles were selected for analysis, and data were extracted by six reviewers. This review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Among the 11 studies, interventions ranged from oral care to saliva substitutes and methods to stimulate saliva secretion. The primary method of assessing xerostomia was the performance of subjective evaluations using visual analog scale scores or numerical rating scale scores. Various interventions including oral care regimens, topical treatments, and mixed efficacy outcomes were reported. Notably, only one study directly measured the saliva volume, highlighting a reliance on subjective endpoints in most studies. Although no definitive conclusions can be drawn regarding the most effective intervention, oral care was a preferred option for managing xerostomia in patients undergoing palliative care. Additionally, adjunctive treatments such as ice cubes, saline, and moisturizers showed promise but require further investigation. Objective measures should be incorporated into future intervention trials to complement subjective assessments and provide a comprehensive evaluation of xerostomia management strategies in this patient population.

Ultrasound-Guided Photoacoustic Imaging of Salivary Gland Hemodynamics in Rabbits

Xerostomia (severe dry mouth) is a debilitating and often permanent side effect experienced by head and neck cancer patients due to radiation injury to salivary glands. In this study, we evaluated the potential of ultrasound (US)-guided photoacoustic imaging (PAI) to non-invasively assess early changes in salivary gland hemodynamics following radiation therapy (RT). US-guided PAI was performed in New Zealand white rabbits to visualize and quantify the hemoglobin concentration (HbT) and oxygen saturation (%sO2) of parotid glands before and after RT. The imaging findings were validated with histology and sialometry. An early increase in parotid gland HbT and %sO2 was seen following RT. Consistent with the PAI observations, histology of salivary glands revealed dilated blood vessels, along with hemorrhaging and fibrosis. Sialometric analysis confirmed a significant reduction in stimulated saliva secretion in irradiated rabbits compared to controls. Collectively, our findings demonstrate the translational utility of US-guided PAI as a valuable tool for label-free functional imaging of salivary gland hemodynamics in vivo.

Among females older than 50years, saliva secretion is significantly lower in non-erosive reflux disease patients than in healthy controls.

Saliva secretion is significantly lower in patients with non-erosive reflux disease (NERD) than in healthy controls (HC). A previous study on HC showed that saliva secretion was lower in females than in males. Saliva secretion may be lower in female patients with NERD than in male patients. Therefore, the present study investigated sex differences in saliva secretion in patients with NERD. Subjects older than 50years were included in the present study and consisted of 20 male patients with NERD, 19 male HC, 25 female patients with NERD, and 23 female HC. Saliva secretion was assessed as follows: each patient chewed sugar-free gum for 3min prior to endoscopy, and the amount and pH of saliva before and after acid loading as an index of the acid-buffering capacity were measured. In males, no significant differences were observed in the amount of stimulated saliva secretion or salivary pH between NERD patients and HC. However, the acid-buffering capacity (NERD: 6.1 [5.9-6.5], HC: 6.4 [6.2-6.6]) was significantly lower in NERD patients than in HC. In females, the amount of stimulated saliva secretion (NERD: 2.6 [2.0-4.1], HC: 5.8 [3.7-7.5]), salivary pH (NERD: 7.0 [6.8-7.2], HC: 7.2 [7.0-7.2]), and the acid-buffering capacity (NERD: 5.8 [5.4-6.2], HC: 6.2 [6.0-6.5]) were significantly lower in NERD patients than in HC. Among females older than 50years, saliva secretion was significantly lower in NERD patients than in HC. This reduction in saliva secretion may contribute to the pathophysiology of NERD in females.

Assessment of the toxic effects of levetiracetam on biochemical, functional, and redox parameters of salivary glands in male Wistar rats

Levetiracetam (LEV) is an anticonvulsant for epilepsy. The toxic effects of this medication in tissues have been associated with redox state imbalance, which can lead to salivary gland dysfunction. Therefore, the current work investigated the effects of LEV on the biochemical, functional, and redox parameters of the parotid and submandibular glands in rats. For this, male Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus albinus) were randomly divided into 3 groups (n = 10/group): Control (0.9% saline solution), LEV100 (100 mg/kg), and LEV300 (300 mg/kg). After 21 consecutive days of intragastric gavage treatments, pilocarpine stimulated saliva secretion was collected for salivary biochemical analysis. The extracted salivary glands were utilized for histomorphometry and redox state analyses. Our results showed that LEV300 increased plasma hepatotoxicity markers and reduced salivary amylase activity and the acinar surface area of the parotid gland. Total oxidant capacity and oxidative damage to lipids and proteins were higher in the parotid gland, while total antioxidant capacity and uric acid levels were reduced in the submandibular gland of the LEV100 group compared to Control. On the other hand, total oxidant capacity, oxidative damage to lipids and proteins, total antioxidant capacity, and uric acid levels were lower in both salivary glands of the LEV300 group compared to Control. Superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activities were lower in the salivary glands of treated animals compared to Control. In conclusion our data suggest that treatment with LEV represents a potentially toxic agent, that contributes to drug-induced salivary gland dysfunction.

Saliva Secretion Is Significantly Lower in Female Patients with Mild Reflux Esophagitis than in Female Healthy Controls

Introduction: Saliva secretion is significantly lower in patients with mild reflux esophagitis than in healthy controls. A previous study on healthy controls showed that stimulated saliva secretion was lower in females than in males. Saliva secretion may be lower in female patients with mild reflux esophagitis than in male patients. Therefore, the present study investigated sex differences in saliva secretion in patients with mild reflux esophagitis. Methods: Twenty-five male patients with mild reflux esophagitis, 25 male healthy controls, 24 female patients with mild reflux esophagitis, and 24 female healthy controls were recruited for this case-control study. Saliva secretion was assessed as follows: each patient chewed sugar-free gum for 3 minutes prior to endoscopy, and the volume and pH of saliva before and after acid loading as an index of the acid-buffering capacity were measured. Results: No significant differences were observed in the amount of stimulated saliva secretion, salivary pH, or the acid-buffering capacity between male patients with mild reflux esophagitis and healthy controls. No significant differences were noted in salivary pH between female patients with mild reflux esophagitis and healthy controls; however, the amount of stimulated saliva secretion was significantly lower (p = 0.0023) in the former (2.5 [1.9–4.1]) than in the latter (4.6 [3.2–6.6]), while the acid-buffering capacity was slightly lower (p = 0.0578) in the former (5.9 [5.7–6.2]) than in the latter (6.2 [6.0–6.5]). Conclusion: The amount of stimulated saliva secretion was significantly lower in female patients with mild reflux esophagitis than in female healthy controls. This reduction in saliva secretion may affect the pathophysiology of mild reflux esophagitis in females.

Effects of Fermented Lingonberry Juice Mouthwash on Salivary Parameters—A One-Year Prospective Human Intervention Study

A one-year prospective human intervention study was performed to examine the effects of fermented lingonberry juice (FLJ), used as a mouthwash for six months, on salivary parameters. A total of 25 adult participants used 10 mL of FLJ as mouthwash 30 s daily for 6 months in addition to their normal oral homecare routines. Standard oral examinations and gathering of samples were performed at the beginning of the study and after six months and one year. Resting and stimulated saliva secretion rates, resting saliva pH, and stimulated saliva buffering capacity were determined. A questionnaire of participants’ subjective sensations of mouth dryness was also recorded at each timepoint. Fermented lingonberry juice mouthwash had positive effect to all five salivary parameters and were, according to the omnibus test, statistically significant during the study period. Analysis of the subjective dry mouth sensation questionnaires revealed that symptoms of xerostomia decreased due to the use of FLJ. This study revealed that the once-a-day use of FLJ mouthwash had a beneficial, increasing effect on salivary flow rates, buffering capacity, and salivary pH. FLJ thus can be safely used as an adjunctive and beneficial therapy in oral homecare, protecting teeth and oral mucosa, including periodontium, and also relieving dry mouth symptoms.

A review on Black Pepper as Antidiabetic agent: Black- Not always bad

Because of their broad pharmacological potentials and lower side effects in biological systems, medicinal plants are particularly popular in numerous traditional medical systems. Piper nigrum L. (Family Piperaceae) is a well-known spice known as "The King of Spices" among many others. It includes the pungent alkaloid ‘‘piperine," which is thought to have a variety of pharmacological effects. By blocking many metabolizing enzymes, it increases the bioavailability of a variety of medicines and minerals.Anti-hypertensive, anti-platelet, antioxidant, anti-tumor, anti-asthmatics, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-diarrheal, antispasmodic, antidepressants, immunomodulatory, anticonvulsant, anti-thyroids, antibacterial, antifungal, hepato-protective, insecticidal, and larvicidal activities are just a few of the pharmacological properties Black pepper has traditionally been used to treat diarrhea, dyspepsia, cholera, and gastrointestinal problems.It contains alkaloids, flavones, steroids, and terpenes, among other active phytochemicals. Piperine is the main alkaloid contained in black pepper, accounting for around 4-6 percent of the total. Piperine has recently been discovered to be a PPAR-agonist, a ligand-activated transcription factor found in adipocytes and macrophages that promotes adipocyte development and insulin sensitivity. As a result, piperine could be used as an anti-diabetic medication. Essential oils, acids, esters, alcohol, and phenols make up this mixture. The essential oils that give it its distinct flavor are primarily made up of a group of chemical molecules known as terpenes. Black pepper's antibacterial properties are due to terpenes. Black pepper also has the ability to stimulate saliva secretion, HCL acid, digestive fluid, bile, and mucus, all of which contribute to immune stability. This study aims to give a review of the literature on pharmacognosy, pharmacological activity, and novel piperine.

Salivary gland dysfunction and salivary redox imbalance in patients with Alzheimer\u2019s disease

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is associated with the deposition of β-amyloid in the brain. AD accounts for over 50% of cases of dementia which results from disturbances in redox homeostasis. Indeed, increased intensity of protein oxidation and nitration as well as lipid peroxidation is observed in brain areas with considerable amounts of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. However, little is known about the oxidoreductive balance of salivary glands in AD patients. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant barrier and oxidative/nitrosative stress biomarkers in stimulated saliva and blood of AD patients. The study was participated by 25 AD patients and 25 non-demented controls without neurological diseases or cognitive impairment, matched by age and gender to the study group. The number of patients was determined based on a previous pilot study (test power = 0.9). We found a significant decrease in the activity of erythrocyte superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), increased activity of catalase (CAT) and reduced concentration of plasma non-enzymatic antioxidants (uric acid, UA and reduced glutathione, GSH). In contrast, in the stimulated saliva of AD patients we observed significantly decreased activity of all antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT and GPx) as well as concentration of GSH compared to the control group. The content of lipid (malondialdehyde, MDA) and protein (advanced oxidation protein products, AOPP; advanced glycation end-products, AGE) oxidation products as well as biomarkers of nitrosative stress (peroxynitrite, nitrotyrosine) was significantly higher in both saliva and plasma of AD patients compared to the controls. In AD patients, we also observed a considerable decrease in stimulated saliva secretion and salivary total protein content, and an increase in salivary β-amyloid concentration. In conclusion, AD results in redox imbalance towards oxidative reactions, both at the level of the oral cavity and the entire body. General redox balance disturbances do not coincide with salivary redox balance disturbances. Reduction in stimulated saliva secretion in AD patients reflects secretory dysfunction of the parotid glands.

Saliva secretion is reduced in proton pump inhibitor-responsive non-erosive reflux disease patients.

There is no consensus on the relationship between saliva secretion and non-erosive reflux disease (NERD). In this study, saliva secretion and salivary epidermal growth factor (EGF) in patients with NERD were examined. Thirty-one PPI-responsive NERD patients and 31 control subjects were recruited for this case-control study. Saliva secretion testing was performed. Saliva secretion was assessed as follows: each patient chewed sugar-free gum for 3min prior to endoscopy, and the amount and pH of saliva before and after acid loading as an index of the acid-buffering capacity were measured. The salivary EGF concentration was assessed by ELISA. The amount of saliva secreted was significantly lower in the NERD group than in the control group, with medians (25th-75th percentile) of 4.0mL/3min (2.0-6.0) and 6.0 (3.9-8.0), respectively (p = 0.0131). Salivary pH was significantly lower in the NERD group (7.0 [6.8-7.2]) than in the control group (7.2 [7.0-7.3], p = 0.0100). Salivary pH after acid loading was significantly lower in the NERD group (5.8 [5.4-6.2]) than in the control group (6.3 [6.1-6.5], p = 0.0002). The difference in pH of stimulated saliva after acid loading (1.2 [0.9-1.5], p = 0.0021) was significantly higher in the NERD group than in the control group (0.8 [0.7-1.1]). The salivary EGF concentration was significantly higher in the NERD group (2513.0pg/mL [1497.5-5005.0] than in the PPI-responsive group (1641.0 [1139.8-2092.0], p = 0.0032). Stimulated saliva secretion was reduced in PPI-responsive NERD patients.

Stimulated saliva secretion is reduced in proton pump inhibitor-resistant severe reflux esophagitis patients.

Salivary secretion in patients with proton-pump inhibitor (PPI)-resistant severe reflux esophagitis has not been examined. In this study, saliva secretion and salivary epidermal growth factor (EGF) in patients with PPI-resistant severe reflux esophagitis were investigated. We recruited 22 PPI-resistant and 22 PPI-responsive severe reflux esophagitis patients who were not infected with Helicobacter pylori. Saliva secretion testing and esophageal manometry using high-resolution manometry were performed. Saliva secretion was assessed as follows: each patient chewed sugar-free gum for 3min prior to endoscopy and the amount and pH of saliva as well as the pH of saliva after acid loading as an index of the acid-buffering capacity were measured. The salivary EGF concentration was assessed by ELISA. The amount of saliva secreted was significantly lower in the PPI-resistant group than in the PPI-responsive group, with medians (25th-75th percentile) of 3.7 (2.2-6.8) and 4.9 (4.0-7.8) mL, respectively (p = 0.029). Salivary pH was significantly lower in the PPI-resistant group [6.9 (6.7-7.2)] than in the PPI-responsive group [7.2 (7.1-7.4), p = 0.001]. Salivary pH after acid loading was significantly lower in the PPI-resistant group [5.6 (5.3-5.9)] than in the PPI-responsive group [6.4 (6.1-6.5), p = 0.002]. The salivary EGF concentration was significantly higher in the PPI-resistant group [3211.5 (1865.0-4121.5)] than in the PPI-responsive group [1816.0 (1123.5-2792.3), p = 0.041]. No significant differences were observed in the proportion of esophageal motility abnormalities. Stimulated saliva secretion was reduced in PPI-resistant severe reflux esophagitis patients.

Comprehensive Evaluation of the Oral Health Status, Salivary Gland Function, and Oxidative Stress in the Saliva of Patients with Subacute Phase of Stroke: A Case-Control Study.

This is the first study to assess, comprehensively, the oral health status; salivary glands’ function and enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant defense; and oxidative damage to proteins and lipids in the non-stimulated (NWS) and stimulated (SWS) whole saliva of stroke patients. The study included 30 patients in the subacute phase of the stroke and an age and gender-matched control group. We showed that the activity of antioxidant enzymes (catalase and salivary peroxidase) was significantly higher in both NWS and SWS of stroke patients, similarly to uric acid concentration. However, in the study group, the reduced glutathione (GSH) concentration in SWS decreased. The contents of protein glycooxidation products (advanced glycation end products (AGE) and protein oxidation products (AOPP)) and lipid hydroperoxides were significantly higher in NWS and SWS of stroke patients. In the study group there was also a decrease in stimulated saliva secretion and total protein content. Interestingly, products of protein and lipid oxidation correlate negatively with SWS flow. The ROC analysis showed that salivary GSH with 100% specificity and 100% sensitivity differentiates the analyzed groups (AUC = 1.0). To sum up, in subacute stroke patients there are redox imbalances and oxidative damage to proteins and lipids in non-stimulated and stimulated saliva. Stroke patients also suffer from salivary gland dysfunction.

Enhanced Inflammation and Nitrosative Stress in the Saliva and Plasma of Patients with Plaque Psoriasis

Psoriasis is the most common inflammatory skin disease, characterized by the release of proinflammatory cytokines from lymphocytes, keratinocytes, and dendritic cells. Although psoriasis is considered an immune-mediated inflammatory disease, its effect on secretory activity of salivary glands and quantitative composition of saliva is still unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate the secretion of saliva as well as several selected inflammation and nitrosative stress biomarkers in unstimulated and stimulated saliva as well as plasma of psoriasis patients. We demonstrated that, with progressing severity and duration of the disease, the secretory function of the parotid and submandibular salivary glands is lost, which is manifested as decreased unstimulated and stimulated saliva secretion and reduced salivary amylase activity and total protein concentration. The levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-2 (IL-2), and interferon-gamma (INF-γ) were significantly higher, whereas interleukin-10 (IL-10) content was considerably lower in unstimulated and stimulated saliva of patients with psoriasis compared to the controls, and the changes increased with the disease duration. Similarly, we observed that the intensity of nitrosative stress in the salivary glands of psoriasis patients depended on the duration of the disease. By means of receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, we showed that the evaluation of nitric oxide (NO), nitrotyrosine, and IL-2 concentration in non-stimulated saliva with high sensitivity and specificity differentiated psoriasis patients on the basis of the rate of saliva secretion (normal salivation vs. hyposalivation). In summary, the dysfunction of salivary glands in psoriasis patients is caused by inflammation and nitrosative stress.

Impact of food odors signaling specific taste qualities and macronutrient content on saliva secretion and composition

Olfactory food cues can induce appetite for similar food products in humans. Odors may thus signal essential information about a foods’ composition such as taste or even macronutrient content and may stimulate specific physiological responses in anticipation of food intake. Several studies have shown that sensory food cues could stimulate saliva secretion. However, potential differences between food odors in their effect on saliva secretion, or the effects of olfactory stimulation on changes in saliva composition remain to be elucidated. To gain more insight, we conducted two studies to determine the influence of various odors, representing different taste qualities (study 1) and macronutrients (study 2), on salivary biomarkers. In study 1, 36 participants were randomly exposed to no-odor, non-food, and odors signaling sweet, savory, and sour taste. In study 2, 60 participants were randomly exposed to no-odor, non-food, and odors signaling carbohydrates, protein, fat, and low-calorie food. For each condition, whole-mouth saliva was collected and saliva secretion rate determined. Furthermore, we determined mouth-watering perception (subjective salivation), visco-elasticity (study 1 only), mucin concentration, α-amylase and lingual lipase activity (study 2 only). For both studies, linear mixed model analyses showed that saliva secretion rate significantly increased by food odor exposure compared to no-odor and non-food conditions. However, no changes in salivary composition were observed. These findings indicate that food odors play a crucial role in anticipatory saliva responses and can thereby affect subsequent eating behavior.

Perbedaan Status Gingiva Vegetarian dan Non-Vegetarian

Background: Vegetarian is defined as a group of people who only eat plant foods and does not include meat, fowl, seafood, and processed products. According to the Indonesia Vegetarian Society (IVS), the number of vegetarians within this decade has increased significantly, and it has reached 60.000 people by 2007. The differences between vegetarian and non-vegetarian are on its consumption of animal’s products and the proportion of plant foods intakes. Fibers in vegetables and fruits can function as a natural toothbrush and stimulate saliva secretion. It can help in cleaning particles from the teeth surface during the process of chewing. The variance of dietary practices among vegetarian and non-vegetarian will make some differences in the individual assessment of dietary adequacy essential that may provide different nutritional status and health benefits. Objective: The purpose of this study was to observe the gingival status differences between vegetarian and non-vegetarian. Method: This study is an observational analytic comparison with cross-sectional study design. This study was conducted at the RSGM FKG USAKTI on October-November 2016. A total of 28 samples according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria divided into two groups (14 vegetarians and 14 non-vegetarians). The gingival status was assessed by using the Papilla Bleeding Index (PBI) and Interdental Hygiene Index (HYG). Result: The result of the Mann-Whitney test showed that there is no PBI and HYG differences between vegetarian and non-vegetarian (p &gt; 0.05). Conclusion: In conclusion, gingival status was not significantly different between vegetarian and non-vegetarian.

SPILANTHES ACMELLA AND ITS MEDICINAL USES – A REVIEW

ABSTRACT In common plant life has been recognized to alleviate various diseases. Spilanthes acmella- a vital native medicinal plant, is also found in sub continent of America. A range of abstracts and active metabolites from different parts of this plant is found to contain valuable pharmacological activities. Traditionally recognized as tooth ache plant, it is known to suppress the ailment allied with tooth aches and is found to stimulate saliva secretion. On Survey of literatures it has been projected that, it has numerous drug related actions, which comprises of antimicrobial, antipyretic, local anaesthetic, bioinsecticide against insects of agricultural importance, antioxidant, analgesic, antimicrobial, vasorelaxant, anti-human immune deficit virus, tooth ache relief and anti-inflammatory effects. Based on the traditional claims against a range of diseases, researchers have classified and estimated plants for their bioactive compounds. However researchers found it to be a difficult task for the extraction of bioactive constituents from these plants. Therefore the scientific information about Spilanthes acmella could be obtained from this current review.

Murine Salivary Functional Assessment via Pilocarpine Stimulation Following Fractionated Radiation.

Hyposalivation is commonly observed in the autoimmune reaction of Sjögren's syndrome or following radiation injury to the major salivary glands. In these cases, questions remain regarding disease pathogenesis and effective interventions. An optimized technique that allows functional assessment of the salivary glands is invaluable for investigating exocrine gland biology, dysfunction, and therapeutics. Here, we present a step by step approach to performing pilocarpine stimulated saliva secretion, including tracheostomy and the dissection of the three major murine salivary glands. We also detail the appropriate murine head and neck anatomy accessed during these techniques. This approach is scalable, allowing for multiple mice to be processed simultaneously, thus improving the efficiency of the work flow. We aim to improve the reproducibility of these methods, each of which has further applications within the field. In addition to saliva collection, we discuss metrics for quantifying and normalizing functional capacity of these tissues. Representative data are included from submandibular glands with depressed salivary gland function 2 weeks following fractionated radiation (4 doses of 6.85 Gy).

Murine Salivary Functional Assessment via Pilocarpine Stimulation Following Fractionated Radiation

Hyposalivation is commonly observed in the autoimmune reaction of Sjögren's syndrome or following radiation injury to the major salivary glands. In these cases, questions remain regarding disease pathogenesis and effective interventions. An optimized technique that allows functional assessment of the salivary glands is invaluable for investigating exocrine gland biology, dysfunction, and therapeutics. Here, we present a step by step approach to performing pilocarpine stimulated saliva secretion, including tracheostomy and the dissection of the three major murine salivary glands. We also detail the appropriate murine head and neck anatomy accessed during these techniques. This approach is scalable, allowing for multiple mice to be processed simultaneously, thus improving the efficiency of the work flow. We aim to improve the reproducibility of these methods, each of which has further applications within the field. In addition to saliva collection, we discuss metrics for quantifying and normalizing functional capacity of these tissues. Representative data are included from submandibular glands with depressed salivary gland function 2 weeks following fractionated radiation (4 doses of 6.85 Gy).

Localized Delivery of Amifostine Enhances Salivary Gland Radioprotection

Radiotherapy for head and neck cancers commonly causes damage to salivary gland tissue, resulting in xerostomia (dry mouth) and numerous adverse medical and quality-of-life issues. Amifostine is the only Food and Drug Administration–approved radioprotective drug used clinically to prevent xerostomia. However, systemic administration of amifostine is limited by severe side effects, including rapid decrease in blood pressure (hypotension), nausea, and a narrow therapeutic window. In this study, we demonstrate that retroductal delivery of amifostine and its active metabolite, WR-1065, to murine submandibular glands prior to a single radiation dose of 15 Gy maintained gland function and significantly increased acinar cell survival. Furthermore, in vivo stimulated saliva secretion was maintained in retrograde-treated groups at levels significantly higher than irradiated-only and systemically treated groups. In contrast to intravenous injections, retroductal delivery of WR-1065 or amifostine significantly attenuated hypotension. We conclude that localized delivery to salivary glands markedly improves radioprotection at the cellular level, as well as mitigates the adverse side effects associated with systemic administration. These results support the further development of a localized delivery system that would be compatible with the fractionated dose regimen used clinically.

Effect of N-Acetylcysteine on Antioxidant Defense, Oxidative Modification, and Salivary Gland Function in a Rat Model of Insulin Resistance.

Oxidative stress plays a crucial role in the salivary gland dysfunction in insulin resistance (IR). It is not surprising that new substances are constantly being sought that will protect against the harmful effects of IR in the oral cavity environment. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) on oxidative stress and secretory function of salivary glands in a rat model of insulin resistance. Rats were divided into 4 groups: C—normal diet, C + NAC—normal diet + NAC, HFD—high-fat diet, and HFD + NAC. We have demonstrated that NAC elevated enzymatic (superoxide dismutase, catalase, and peroxidase) and nonenzymatic antioxidants (reduced glutathione (GSH) and total antioxidant capacity (TAS)) in the parotid glands of HFD + NAC rats, while in the submandibular glands increased only GSH and TAS levels. NAC protects against oxidative damage only in the parotid glands and increased stimulated salivary secretion; however, it does not increase the protein secretion in the both salivary glands. Summarizing, NAC supplementation prevents the decrease of stimulated saliva secretion, seen in the HFD rats affected. NAC improves the antioxidative capacity of the both glands and protects against oxidative damage to the parotid glands of IR rats.