1. Mechanism of molecular transport from serum into salivary gland ducts.
Mechanism of molecular transport from serum into salivary gland ducts. The image shows the proximity of a major salivary gland to the vascular system. Salivary glands are highly vascularized, allowing for the exchange of blood-based constituents. Acinus cells within the salivary glands absorb molecules from the blood and secrete salivary juices into the oral cavity. Alterations in the molecular composition of the blood may subsequently modify the composition of salivary secretions. Disease-specific blood-based biomarkers could sufficiently alter the output of salivary glands, yielding saliva-based biomarkers of systemic disorders. (Reprinted from reference 119 by permission of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Adapted from reference 120.)‏
Janice M. Yoshizawa et al. Clin. Microbiol. Rev. 2013; doi: /CMR