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Secretory immunity with special reference to the oral cavity
1Laboratory for Immunohistochemistry and Immunopathology (LIIPAT), Centre for Immune Regulation (CIR), University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
Journal of Oral Microbiology
|March 15, 2013
Summary
Saliva contains secretory IgA (SIgA) and IgG antibodies. While SIgA is locally produced, IgG primarily leaks from blood. Different lymphoid tissues influence antibody production, impacting salivary immune responses.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Oral Biology
- Mucosal Immunity
Background:
- Saliva contains two main antibody classes: secretory IgA (SIgA) and IgG.
- SIgA is locally produced by plasma cells and transported via the polymeric Ig receptor (pIgR).
- Salivary IgG is mainly derived from blood circulation, with some local production possible.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the origins and regulation of antibody classes in saliva.
- To explore the differential contribution of Gut-Associated Lymphoid Tissue (GALT) and Nasopharynx-Associated Lymphoid Tissue (NALT) to salivary antibody production.
- To understand factors influencing salivary antibody levels and their clinical potential.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of antibody classes (SIgA and IgG) in salivary secretions.
- Comparison of antibody levels in relation to immune induction sites (GALT vs. NALT).
- Consideration of confounding variables affecting antibody quantification.
Main Results:
- Enteric immunostimulation may not optimally activate salivary IgA production.
- Salivary IgA levels may reflect intestinal immune responses, with potential differences between salivary gland types (e.g., submandibular/sublingual vs. parotid).
- Parotid SIgA appears more consistently linked to immune induction in palatine tonsils/adenoids and cervical lymph nodes.
Conclusions:
- The origin and regulation of salivary antibodies are complex, involving local production and systemic contributions.
- The relative contribution of GALT and NALT to salivary antibody responses requires further investigation.
- Saliva is a valuable biological fluid for research and clinical applications, despite challenges in standardization.
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