Saliva is a complex fluid containing a variety of cells, including:
- White blood cells: These cells play a crucial role in the immune system, helping to fight off infections.
- Epithelial cells: These cells line the surfaces of the mouth, including the salivary glands, and can be shed into saliva. DNA can be extracted from these cells for various purposes, such as genetic testing.
- Acinar cells: These are the secretory cells of the salivary glands, responsible for producing saliva. They are either serous or mucinous, depending on the type of saliva they produce.
Additionally, saliva contains electrolytes, mucus, enzymes (like lipase and amylase), and antimicrobial agents (like secretory IgA and lysozymes).
Reference:
In humans, saliva is around 99% water, plus electrolytes, mucus, white blood cells, epithelial cells (from which DNA can be extracted), enzymes (such as lipase and amylase), and antimicrobial agents (such as secretory IgA, and lysozymes).