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Wijnand Teeuw, Jos A. Bosch, Enno C.I. Veerman, Arie V. Nieuw Amerongen

Neuroendocrine regulation of salivary IgA synthesis and secretion: implications for oral health

Keywords: exocrine glands, immunoglobulins, mucosa, saliva, salivary gland

Secretory immunoglobulin A (S-IgA) represents the main adaptive immune mechanism in the oral cavity. The regulation of secretion and synthesis of S-IgA is not only dependent on prior antigenic stimulation, but is also under strong neuroendocrine control. Thus, alterations in neuroendocrine functioning (such as induced by stress, exercise, pregnancy, menstrual cycle, and pharmacological interventions) may affect salivary IgA levels. This review deals with the neuroendocrine regulation of synthesis and secretion of salivary IgA and its potential role in the maintenance of oral health.

Biological Chemistry, Walter de Gruyter

Print ISSN: 1431-6730
Volume: 385, 12/2004
Pages: 1137 - 1146

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