Salivary Proteomics

Saliva proteomics* and diagnostics is part of a nationwide effort to create the first map of every human protein and every protein interaction, as they contribute to health and disease and as they act as markers for disease states. Following instructions encoded by genes, protein "machines" make up the body's organs and regulate its cellular processes. Defining exact protein pathways on a comprehensive scale enables the development of early diagnostic testing and precise drug design.

Dr. Harvey is working in conjunction with the research staff at the University of Kentucky in the collection of saliva samples from consenting patients. These samples will be used for identifying genetic markers for oral disease.

Soon, salivary proteins may replace blood tests as diagnostic tools, as researchers carry on research cataloguing the "complete" salivary proteome, a set of proteins in human ductal saliva.

*study of proteins in genes