Newly identified cell type could be the key to restoring damaged salivary glands

2022-04-14 - 2022-04

As the researchers described in Cell Reports on April 14, 2022, the new type of salivary gland cell called "ionocyte" that works to maintain healthy concentrations of charged molecules -- ions -- of potassium, calcium, chlorine, and other electrolytes in saliva. The scientists also found that this type of ionocyte secretes a key growth factor (fibroblast growth factor 10, or FGF10), suggesting that it has a further role in the repair of salivary glands after injury. "These are unique cells, and we hope that by studying them we can develop better treatments for the many medical conditions that affect salivary glands and related glands such as tear glands," says study co-senior author Helen Makarenkova, PhD, associate professor in the Department of Molecular Medicine at Scripps Research. Salivary glands produce saliva, which makes it much easier for animals to swallow food. Saliva also contains enzymes that assist in digestion, antibodies and other immune elements to protect against infection, and finely tuned concentrations of different ions to maintain the overall health of teeth and oral tissues. Salivary glands can be damaged by cancer-related radiation therapy in the head and neck region and other medical conditions including autoimmune disorders.

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Newly identified cell type could be the key to restoring damaged salivary glands

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Newly identified cell type could be the key to restoring damaged salivary glands