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Mary C. Farach-Carson named recipient of the 2026 IADR Distinguished Scientist Award in Salivary Research

Mary C. Farach-Carson, an internationally recognized leader in extracellular matrix biology and salivary tissue engineering, has been awarded the IADR Distinguished Scientist Award. Her research reveals key functions of ECM components in organizing stem/progenitor cell microstructures and guiding cell migration.

A new smartphone-sized device can test for tuberculosis. Here’s why that matters for children

Tulane University scientists developed a handheld device to deliver rapid and accurate tuberculosis diagnoses in under an hour. The device, called the lab-in-tube assay (LIT), can detect Mycobacterium tuberculosis DNA in saliva, blood, and sputum samples, offering a cost-effective tool for improving TB diagnoses in resource-limited areas.

SourceTulane University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 9, 2025

COVID-19 boosters help avoid breakthrough infections in immunocompromised people, McGill-led study finds

A new study by researchers at McGill University found that annual COVID-19 vaccine booster doses help avoid breakthrough infections in people with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases. The study tracked 366 patients across Canada and used saliva PCR tests and antibody measurements, offering a more precise picture of infection risks.

SourceMcGill University·JournalVaccine·TypeObservational study·DateMar 31, 2025

Saliva indicates severity of recurrent respiratory infections in children

A saliva test has been found to be more accurate than a blood test in assessing the severity of recurrent respiratory infections in children. The test measures broadly protective antibodies in saliva, which indicate disease burden and predict treatment needs. Saliva testing also holds promise for new treatments and therapies.

SourceRadboud University Medical Center·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·TypeObservational study·DateAug 8, 2024

Researchers conduct first-ever study to characterize microbiota in saliva of weaned piglets on commercial farms in Brazil

Researchers characterized the microbial composition of oral fluid, feces, and environment of nursery piglets on commercial farms in Brazil. The study found distinct oral fluid bacterial profiles differing from those in feces and environment, with potential implications for swine health and production.

Your unsupportive partner is physically stressing you out

A new study from Binghamton University found that couples who receive more negative social support tend to experience higher levels of cortisol, a hormone associated with stress reactions. In contrast, those who receive positive support exhibit lower cortisol levels and feel more understood, validated, and cared for by their partner.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalJournal of Social and Personal Relationships·TypeObservational study·DateApr 8, 2024

Detecting breast cancer through a spit test

A new hand-held device screens for breast cancer biomarkers from a tiny spit sample, offering quick and efficient results. The portable tool distinguishes between healthy tissue, early cancer, and advanced cancer in a small group of women.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalJournal of Vacuum Science & Technology B Microelectronics and Nanometer Structures Processing Measurement and Phenomena·DateFeb 16, 2024

Would you prefer a mammogram, MRI, or saliva on a test strip?

Researchers have developed a hand-held biosensor that can detect breast cancer biomarkers from saliva with high accuracy and efficiency. The device is portable, reusable, and cost-effective, making it an excellent choice for communities or hospitals without access to advanced technologies like MRI.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Vacuum Science & Technology B Microelectronics and Nanometer Structures Processing Measurement and Phenomena·DateFeb 13, 2024

Saliva: a means to detect pain in people with dementia

A study found that saliva biomarkers sTNFR2 and sIgA can effectively detect pain in people with dementia, providing an alternative to invasive methods. The researchers discovered a decrease in sTNFR2 levels and an increase in sIgA in patients with dementia compared to a control group.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalEuropean Archives of Psychiatry and Clinical Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 2023

What smoking does to oral bacteria

A study conducted by Eurac Research Institute found that cigarette use alters the oral microbiome, leading to an increased risk of periodontitis and cardiovascular disease. Quitting smoking results in a gradual increase in aerobic bacteria, which can lead to improved blood pressure regulation.

SourceEurac Research·JournalScientific Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 29, 2023

Proof of concept of new material for long lasting relief from dry mouth conditions

A novel aqueous lubricant technology has been developed at the University of Leeds, providing a longer-lasting solution for people with dry mouth conditions. The substance, composed of microgel and hydrogel, binds strongly to the surface of the mouth, reducing desorption and offering up to five times more effective relief.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalScientific Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 20, 2023

New at-home test for gingivitis protects oral health

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati have developed a new at-home test that uses saliva to detect early signs of gingivitis, the earliest form of gum disease. The device can identify periodontal disease caused by bacteria in saliva, providing an opportunity for consumers to protect their oral health.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalSensors & Diagnostics·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2023

A simple mouth rinse could spot early heart disease risk

Researchers identified a link between high white blood cells in saliva and compromised flow-mediated dilation, an early indicator of poor arterial health. The study suggests that low levels of oral inflammatory load may have an impact on cardiovascular health.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Oral Health·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 18, 2023

It’s cool to drool: Forsyth’s application of CRISPR-based rapid detection technology has potential to transform oral health

Scientists from Forsyth Institute develop CRISPR-based diagnostic tool that can detect specific oral pathogens with high sensitivity and specificity. The test can be performed in a dental office without technical expertise, providing comprehensive information on oral health and systemic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.

SourceForsyth Institute·JournalJournal of Oral Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 11, 2023

A simple, portable sensor monitors paracetamol levels in saliva in real time for personalized treatment

Researchers developed a simple sensor to monitor paracetamol levels in saliva in real-time, enabling personalized treatment and reducing toxic side effects. The device is low-cost, portable, and uses non-invasive collection methods, making it an attractive alternative for therapeutic drug monitoring.

Why chocolate feels so good – it is all down to lubrication

A team of scientists at the University of Leeds has decoded the physical process behind chocolate's sensation in the mouth. They found that fat plays a key role in creating the smooth emulsion, and by understanding this mechanism, they hope to develop healthier luxury chocolates with the same feel and texture.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 12, 2023

Aging | DNA methylation GrimAge version 2

Researchers developed a new epigenetic biomarker, GrimAge version 2, which leverages two DNAm-based estimators of plasma proteins to predict mortality risk. The study found that GrimAge 2 outperforms existing clinical biomarkers in predicting mortality across multiple racial/ethnic groups and associations with age-related conditions.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeObservational study·DateDec 21, 2022

Microbes that cause cavities can form superorganisms able to ‘crawl’ and spread on teeth

Researchers discovered that cross-kingdom assemblages of bacteria and fungi can form superorganisms that colonize teeth, causing extensive tooth decay. These superorganisms exhibit enhanced surface adhesion, increased mechanical and antimicrobial tolerance, and unique mobility, moving at speeds similar to fibroblasts.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 6, 2022

Mouthwashes may suppress SARS-CoV-2

A study by Hokkaido University researchers found that low concentrations of cetylpyridinium chloride in mouthwash can inhibit SARS-CoV-2 infectivity and viral load, regardless of variant. This antiviral effect is thought to be due to disruption of the lipid membrane surrounding the virus.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 5, 2022

Weighted blanket increases melatonin

A new study from Uppsala University found that using a weighted blanket at bedtime increases melatonin production by about 30 percent. The researchers also discovered that the weight of the blanket (12% of participant's body weight) reduced stress system activity, but had no effect on oxytocin and cortisol levels.

SourceUppsala University·JournalJournal of Sleep Research·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 3, 2022

Researchers identify key factor in exosome-mediated viral transmission from insects to plants

Exosomes have been identified as possible vehicles for virus transmission, and a recent study found that the saliva protein exportin 6 plays a crucial role in this process. The researchers isolated exosomes from the saliva of insect vectors and showed that they can transport plant virions into rice plants.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 5, 2022