Saliva myelin basic protein (MBP) and oral health status as a biomarkers of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis

Oxidative stress and inflammation play critical roles in the pathophysiology of multiple sclerosis. This study aimed to assess the utility of saliva myelin basic protein (MBP) as a biomarker of disease activity in RRMS patients.

Ninety-two relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis patients (RRMS) and 51 healthy individuals were assessed for salivary MBP levels, antioxidant capacity, oral health, and clinical characteristics.

RRMS patients had significantly higher Approximal Plaque Index (API), salivary myelin basic protein (MBP) levels, and antioxidant capacity than controls. The correlation between antioxidant capacity and MBP levels suggests a connection between oxidative stress and demyelination. RRMS patients exhibited significantly poorer oral hygiene and more frequent oral complaints, although these were not directly associated with salivary biomarkers.

Saliva MBP may be a helpful non-invasive biomarker for monitoring disease activity in MS. Further longitudinal studies are warranted to confirm its diagnostic and prognostic utility.