KININ‐FORMING AND DESTROYING ACTIVITIES OF SALIVA

Abstract

Kininase activity is present in saliva obtained from the oral cavity but not in saliva obtained by cannulation of the parotid or submandibular ducts. This activity originates from squamous epithelial cells from the oral mucous membranes. Experiments with various inhibitors indicated that the kininase activity of squamous epithelial cells differs from that of plasma, and resembles that of erythrocytes. Kinin-forming activity is present both in the glandular secretion and in the squamous epithelial cells.