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Updated: Jul 14, 2026
06:58
Collection and Extraction of Saliva DNA for Next Generation Sequencing
Published on: August 27, 2014
Saliva specimen: a new laboratory tool for diagnostic and basic investigation.
Silvia Chiappin1, Giorgia Antonelli, Rosalba Gatti
1Section of Clinical Biochemistry, Department of Medical Diagnostic Sciences and Spec. Ther., University of Padua, c/o ex Istituto di Semeiotica Medica, Via Ospedale 105-35128, Padova, Italy.
Summary
Saliva assays are valuable for diagnostics and understanding bodily functions, especially in endocrine research. Proper collection and storage are crucial for reliable results in this expanding field.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Clinical Diagnostics
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Saliva analysis is an emerging research area with broad clinical and basic science applications.
- Saliva is an easily accessible biological fluid, but specimen integrity is vital for accurate assays.
- Its utility extends beyond oral health, offering insights into systemic organ function and endocrine status.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the laboratory aspects of salivary assays.
- To discuss various analytes measurable in saliva, including ions, drugs, hormones, and immunoglobulins.
- To examine the impact of preanalytical variables on salivary assay results.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on salivary assays.
- Analysis of factors affecting specimen integrity during collection and storage.
- Discussion of different analyte types and their measurement in saliva.
Main Results:
- Saliva assays provide valuable diagnostic information for various diseases and physiological states.
- Endocrine research significantly benefits from salivary hormone analysis.
- Preanalytical variations in collection and storage can significantly impact assay outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Salivary assays are expanding as a powerful tool for investigating physiological and pathophysiological conditions.
- Careful attention to preanalytical factors is essential for the reliable use of saliva in diagnostics.
- The role of saliva analysis in clinical and basic research is expected to grow.
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