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Electron microscopic studies of human mixed saliva
P O Glantz1, S M Wirth, R E Baier
1Department of Prosthetic Dentistry, Faculty of Odontology, University of Lund, Malmö, Sweden.
Acta Odontologica Scandinavica
|February 1, 1989
Summary
Saliva exhibits intricate internal structures, revealed through electron microscopy and elemental analysis. These findings support saliva's complex colloid chemical properties.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Materials Science
- Microscopy
Background:
- Saliva's complex composition and functions are not fully understood at a microstructural level.
- Previous studies have primarily focused on saliva's chemical composition rather than its physical structure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the microstructural organization of human saliva.
- To correlate observed structures with saliva's colloid chemical properties.
Main Methods:
- Human saliva samples from three donors were processed, solidified in liquid nitrogen, sectioned, and fixed.
- Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were employed for structural examination.
- Energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (EDAX) was used for elemental composition determination.
Main Results:
- TEM and SEM revealed fine, dense salivary network structures, originating from major fibrous components.
- Osmium tetroxide (OsO4)-treated sections showed reticulated arrangements with cellular diameters as small as 0.2 microns.
- EDAX analysis detected elements including Calcium (Ca), Iron (Fe), Potassium (K), Phosphorus (P), and Sulfur (S), with higher Ca concentrations in major components.
- Untreated sections displayed electron-dense central portions in strands (>1-2 microns) and internal granules.
Conclusions:
- The study identified distinct internal microstructures within human saliva.
- These structural features are consistent with saliva's known colloid chemical characteristics.
- The findings provide new insights into the physical basis of saliva's functions.