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Molecular diversity of tissue kallikrein in human saliva

J W Jenzano1, H W Su, G L Featherstone

  • 1Dental Research Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill 27599-7455.

Agents and Actions. Supplements
|January 1, 1992
PubMed

Insights

Salivary gland secretions exhibit significant variations in tissue kallikrein (TK) expression. Immunological analysis reveals TK heterogeneity due to secretion, not degradation, impacting its active forms in saliva.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Immunology
  • Salivary Gland Biology

Background:

  • Tissue kallikrein (TK) is an enzyme found in saliva.
  • Previous studies suggest TK exists in various forms, but the source of this heterogeneity is unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the heterogeneity of tissue kallikrein in human saliva using immunological methods.
  • To determine if this heterogeneity arises from secretion processes or post-secretory degradation.

Main Methods:

  • Collection of human mixed, parotid, and submandibular/sublingual saliva.
  • Western blot analysis using a polyclonal antibody against salivary TK.
  • Enzyme overlay assay to detect active TK species.
  • Treatment with thermolysin and glycosidases to assess modifications.

Main Results:

  • Western blots showed multiple TK immunoreactive species (< 20 KD, 45 KD, 60 KD, 90 KD, > 200 KD).
  • Only < 29 KD and 45 KD species were enzymatically active.
  • Parotid saliva had less TK, with the < 20 KD form largely absent.
  • Proteolytic and glycosidase treatments altered TK heterogeneity.

Conclusions:

  • Salivary TK heterogeneity is primarily due to secretory phenomena, not degradation.
  • Distinct TK forms and expression levels are found in different salivary gland secretions.
  • This variation influences the presence and activity of TK in saliva.

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