PHYSIOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF PHOSPHOLIPID IN HUMAN SALIVA

¹ The Murry and Leonie Guggenheim Dental Clinic of New York and Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole, Massachusetts

1. Phospholipid phosphorus is present in human saliva in estimable amounts. Thus far determinations have been made on 207 persons variously conditioned.

2. Low values predominate in individuals adjudged normal by clinical and laboratory examinations.

3. Higher concentrations obtain in those above 20 years than at younger ages. The differences are less than those effected by disease and therefore, bear out general biological tendencies.

4. Physiological malfunctions, even of mild types are associated with contents above the normal average, 0.119 ± 0.011 mg. per 100 ml. saliva—exemplified in 0.191 ± 0.01, 0.294 ± 0.058, 0.343 ± 0.048. Such analyses may serve as diagnostic aids in establishing early deviation from health and so would be instrumental in helping to maintain optimal well-being.