Work

Wetting the whistle: neurotropic factor improves salivary function

Year: 2014

Type: article

Abstract: Xerostomia, or dry mouth, is a common side effect of head and neck radiotherapy, Sjögren syndrome, diabetes, old age, and numerous medications. In this issue of the JCI, Xiao and colleagues identified glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) as a potential stimulus for salivary stem cell growth. Due to its ability to promote neuronal growth, differentiation, and survival, GDNF is currently being used in clinical trials as a treatment for Parkinson disease; therefore, the findings of Xiao and colleagues may initiate a potential treatment for the millions of patients who suffer from xerostomia each year.

Source: Journal of Clinical Investigation

DOI: 10.1172/jci77194

Authors: Adam Swick, Randall J. Kimple

Institutions: University of Wisconsin–Madison, University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center

Language: English

Topic: Salivary Gland Disorders and Functions

Subfield: Physiology (medical)

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: bronze

Funder: National Cancer Institute