The carbohydrate composition of experimental salivary pellicles

Abstract

The carbohydrate compositions of pellicles formed in vivo [human] and others formed in vitro from submandibular, parotid and mixed (submandibular-parotid) saliva were determined using GLC. Samples of the total pellicles as well as the relatively acid-soluble supernates and acid-insoluble sediments were collected, analyzed and compared. The differences in carbohydrate composition between the supernates and sediments, particularly in the in vivo and in vitro mixed salivary pellicles, suggest that the total pellicle is composed of more than 1 component. In each instance obvious differences in composition between the pellicle and the saliva from which it was formed indicated that pellicle formation is a highly selective process. Glucose:galactose ratios of approximately 1:1 were found in each of the total pellicles. These data suggest that at least 1 pellicle component is an unusual glycoprotein in that it contains high levels of glucose. The total submandibular salivary pellicle and both its fractions were remarkably similar in carbohydrate composition to the counterparts formed from parotid saliva alone. Both submandibular and parotid saliva probably have similar glycoproteins that are selectively deposited onto etched enamel as the initial pellicle. [Any organic covering of the enamel could have a profound influence on disease processes that begin at the surface of the tooth, i.e., caries, periodontal disease.].