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Updated: Mar 17, 2026
The α-test: Rapid Cell-free CD4 Enumeration Using Whole Saliva
Published on: May 16, 2012
Distribution and factors associated with salivary secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor concentrations
S Rahman1,2, C M Pierce Campbell3, B N Torres4
1Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA.
Objectives:
This cross-sectional study examined the distribution and correlates of salivary secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI) concentrations within a multinational cohort of men.
Methods:
Extracellular SLPI was measured in oral gargle cell supernatants of 378 men from three countries using an ELISA-based assay. Risk factor data were collected by a questionnaire. Factors associated with SLPI were assessed using linear and logistic regression for continuous and categorical SLPI, respectively.
Results:
Among men aged 18-73 years, the median SLPI concentration was 492.0 ng ml-1 (range: 2.3-1919.9). In multivariable modeling, men in Brazil and younger men (18-30 years) were more likely to have higher levels of SLPI [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 3.84; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.94-7.59, and aOR 3.84; 95% CI: 1.98-7.43, respectively]. Men with a self-reported sexually transmitted diseases diagnosis in the past 6 months were more likely to have higher SLPI levels (aOR 2.98; 95% CI: 1.1-7.83) and men reporting bleeding/swollen gums were less likely to have higher SLPI (aOR 0.34; 95% CI: 0.15-0.79). Similar results were observed for linear regression models.
Conclusions:
Secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor concentrations varied significantly by country and decreased with increasing age. The interaction between SLPI, modifiable factors, and oral infections that influence cancer risk warrants further investigation.
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