The role of secretory and humoral activity of major salivary glands in the pathogenesis of periodontitis in rats

This article examines the influence of the secretory and humoral activity of the major salivary glands on the pathogenesis of experimental periodontitis in rats with induced hyposalivation. Saliva, with its immune and cleansing properties, serves as a key factor in protecting periodontal tissues. Decreased saliva secretion (hyposalivation) is considered a significant risk factor; however, the complex impact of this condition on the pathogenesis of periodontitis requires further study. Aim: The aim of this study was to examine the role of the secretory and humoral activity of the major salivary glands in the pathogenesis of experimental periodontitis in rats with induced hyposalivation. Materials and methods: The experiment was performed on 35 Wistar rats divided into 7 groups. Hyposalivation was induced by daily subcutaneous injections of atropine sulfate at a dose of 2 mg/kg for 30 days. Periodontitis was induced by subperiosteal ligation. Morphological, biochemical, and immune changes in the salivary glands and gums were studied. Statistical data processing was performed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with Tukey's post-hoc test. Results: In the hyposalivation groups, a 55–65 % decrease in salivary gland weight and a 50 % decrease in IgA secretion were recorded. Concurrently, an increase in biochemical markers of inflammation and oxidative stress was noted: malondialdehyde (MDA) levels increased by 70–80 %, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) concentrations increased by 60 %. In the combined models, worsening signs of periodontitis were observed, including increased neutrophil infiltration and destruction of the dental ligament apparatus. These changes were significant compared to the control group (p 0.05). Conclusion: It has been established that hyposalivation contributes to the progression of periodontitis by disrupting the protective functions of saliva and activating inflammatory mechanisms. This is associated with a weakening of local immunity (decreased IgA) and activation of systemic inflammation (increased TNF-α and MDA). The results confirm the key role of the salivary glands in maintaining periodontal health and indicate the need to develop strategies for correcting xerostomia to prevent periodontitis.