The Saliverse: a taste of the multidimensional biochemical network of the human oral metabolome

Abstract

Unlike the commonly held view, saliva is not a homogenous biofluid, but rather a complex mix of serous and mucus type secretions. These individual secretions present with characteristic molecular compositions, functions, and rhythm. The thesis displays empirical proof of the biochemical diversity of subtypes of saliva at both spatial and temporal dimensions. Furthermore, the implications and prospects of such distinctive biochemistry are discussed.