Detecting Diseases Through Saliva

Oct-24-12 Researchers are developing on a technique that could one day allow the early diagnosis of diseases through saliva.

The method, known as salivary diagnostics, or “salivaomics,” is being investigated by a team at UCLA led by Dr. David Wong. Dr. Wong has discovered that saliva contains complex sets of molecules that can be used to create an impression of the person’s general health, and by identifying biomarkers in the saliva scientists can develop tests that will produce accurate results. The researchers have collaborated with groups at other institutions to develop tools to help interpret the biomarkers.

The research is still in the early stages, but Dr. Wong and other researchers believe that, in time, the non-invasive saliva sampling method of diagnosing disease could be just as useful as blood tests. And since 20 percent more Americans visit their dentists more regularly than their doctors, salviaomics could put dentists on the front lines of disease detection.

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[POPSCI.COM]
[UCLA]

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