Saliva: Newer avenues in the era of molecular biology, diagnostic and prognostic application

Saliva as a Biomarker in Oral Cancer

“…Saliva is an aqueous, hypotonic solution which protects all the tissues of the oral cavity (16) .Saliva is a complex fluid containing various enzymes, electrolytes, proteins, nucleic acids, antimicrobial constituents, hormones, cytokines, and antibodies., In addition, some proteins are necessary for inhibiting the spontaneous precipitation of calcium and phosphate ions in the salivary glands and in their secretions (17,18) . It play vital role in maintaining oral homeostasis, it has different defense mechanisms, such as immunological and enzyme systems, defense mechanisms against bacteria, viruses, fungi, protection of the mucosa and it also promotes its healing properties (19) .…”