Influence of Saliva upon Hemagglutination by Influenza Virus.

Abstract

Saliva of human adults possesses the capacity to inhibit agglutination of erythrocytes by influenza virus. Under the conditions of study, the effectiveness varies among individuals and at different times. Its action is not significantly affected by heating at 56[degree]C for 30 min.; nor is its behavior influenced by heating of the virus. Nevertheless, the action of the inhibitor appears to be upon the virus rather than upon the ?erythrocytes. The nature of the inhibitor has not been detd. but it is suggested that saliva represents a physiologic source of materials such as have been shown to interfere with hemagglutination in in vitro systems.