Salivary Biomarkers

Salivary biomarkers are indicators found in saliva that reflect various physiological and pathological conditions in the human body. These biomarkers offer a non-invasive and easily accessible means for monitoring health. Saliva contains a diverse range of substances, including proteins, hormones, and nucleic acids, which can serve as diagnostic markers for diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and infectious diseases. Researchers are increasingly exploring salivary biomarkers as a convenient and cost-effective alternative to traditional blood tests. The study of salivary biomarkers, known as salivaomics, has gained prominence in recent years due to advancements in analytical techniques and the understanding of saliva's diagnostic potential. Salivary diagnostics hold promise for early disease detection, personalized medicine, and monitoring treatment responses. Notably, saliva can provide real-time information about a person's health status. As a non-invasive and stress-free collection method, saliva sampling is particularly advantageous, especially in pediatric and geriatric populations. Recent research has identified specific salivary biomarkers associated with conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, and oral health. This growing field has the potential to revolutionize healthcare by enabling point-of-care testing and enhancing disease management strategies. The development of reliable salivary biomarker assays and the integration of these markers into routine clinical practice could usher in a new era of personalized and preventive medicine.