Saliva: a reliable sample matrix in bioanalytics

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Physiology
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Saliva is an increasingly utilized bioanalytical matrix due to its noninvasive collection.
• Its ease of collection benefits endocrinology, behavioral science, and pediatrics.
• Saliva is unique as it can be collected during physical exercise, offering advantages over serum or urine for specific research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide insights into saliva formation physiology.
• To explain compound entry into saliva.
• To offer guidance on saliva collection, storage, and analytical techniques.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of saliva physiology.
• Analysis of compound transport mechanisms into saliva.
• Compilation of best practices for sample handling and analysis.

Main Results:

• Detailed explanation of saliva formation and analyte incorporation.
• Recommendations for optimal saliva collection and storage protocols.
• Overview of validated analytical methods for saliva.

Conclusions:

• Saliva analysis is a versatile tool with proven applications in endocrinology, sports medicine, forensics, and immunology.
• Understanding saliva physiology enhances the reliability of analytical results.
• Standardized methods ensure the utility of saliva as a biofluid for scientific inquiry.