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Trefoil factor family 3 expression in the oral cavity
T Storesund1, O Schreurs, E B Messelt
1Department of Oral Biology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
European Journal of Oral Sciences
|February 4, 2010
Summary
Trefoil factor family 3 (TFF3) peptide is expressed in oral keratinocytes and salivary glands. Submandibular and minor salivary glands are major producers of oral TFF3, contributing to salivary secretions.
Area of Science:
- Oral biology
- Gastroenterology
- Molecular biology
Background:
- Trefoil factor family 3 (TFF3) is a peptide with known roles in epithelial repair.
- Its expression and function in the oral cavity are not fully elucidated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the expression of TFF3 peptide in oral keratinocytes and salivary glands.
- To identify the primary sites of TFF3 production within the oral cavity.
Main Methods:
- Quantitative real-time PCR and Western blotting were used to detect TFF3 mRNA and peptide in oral keratinocytes.
- Immunohistochemical analyses were performed on oral mucosal epithelium and salivary glands.
- Western blotting was used to detect TFF3 in saliva from healthy volunteers.
Main Results:
- TFF3 peptide and mRNA were detected in normal oral keratinocytes.
- Immunohistochemistry revealed TFF3 expression in the basal layers of oral epithelium.
- TFF3 expression was strongest in mucous acini of submandibular and small salivary glands, with moderate expression in ductal cells of all glands.
- TFF3 was detected in saliva from minor salivary glands and mixed submandibular/sublingual saliva.
Conclusions:
- Submandibular and small salivary glands are major producers of oral TFF3.
- Oral mucosal keratinocytes and duct cells of all salivary glands also contribute to oral TFF3.
- TFF3 is present in oral secretions, suggesting a role in maintaining oral mucosal health.
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