Xerostomia is frequent and has a negative impact on QOL of adolescents with DM1.

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The aim of this study was to perform a literature review about the composition and functions of saliva as well as describe the factors that influence salivary flow (SF) and its biochemical composition. Background: Saliva represents an increasingly useful auxiliary means of diagnosis. Sialometry and sialochemistry are used to diagnose systemic illnesses, monitoring general health, and as an indicator of risk for diseases creating a close relation between oral and systemic health. Review: This review provides fundamental information about the salivary system in terms of normal values for SF and composition and a comprehensive review of the factors that affect this important system. Conclusion: Since several factors can influence salivary secretion and composition, a strictly standardized collection must be made so the above-mentioned exams are able to reflect the real functioning of the salivary glands and serve as efficient means for monitoring health. Clinical Significance: Since many oral and systemic conditions manifest themselves as changes in the flow and composition of saliva the dental practitioner is advised to remain up-to-date with the current literature on the subject.

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Antifungal drugs belong to few chemical groups and such low diversity limits the therapeutic choices. The urgent need of innovative options has pushed researchers to search new bioactive molecules. Literature regarding the last 15 years reveals that different research groups have used different approaches to achieve such goal. However, the discovery of molecules with different mechanisms of action still demands considerable time and efforts. This review was conceived to present how Pharmaceutical Biotechnology might contribute to the discovery of molecules with antifungal properties by microbial biotransformation procedures. Authors present some aspects of (1) microbial biotransformation of herbal medicines and food; (2) possibility of major and minor molecular amendments in existing molecules by biocatalysis; (3) methodological improvements in processes involving whole cells and immobilized enzymes; (4) potential of endophytic fungi to produce antimicrobials by bioconversions; and (5) in silico research driving to the improvement of molecules. All these issues belong to a new conception of transformation procedures, so-called “green chemistry,” which aims the highest possible efficiency with reduced production of waste and the smallest environmental impact.

Benzodiazepines are among the most frequently prescribed drugs and are often related with dry mouth. Pilocarpine is a cholinergic agonist that increases salivary flow rate and has been used to treat xerostomia. This study aimed to measure salivary flow rate of rats under chronic treatment with benzodiazepine (Diazepam), to analyze by histomorphometry the effects of the drug in the parotids glands and to verify the effect of the pilocarpine in glandular parenchyma and in the salivary flow rate. Seventy-two male Wistar rats were allocated to four groups. Control groups received saline during 60 days (C60) and pilocarpine (Pilo) during 60 days. Experimental groups were dealt with Diazepam associated with saline (DS), and Diazepam associated with pilocarpine (DP) during 60 days. The stimulated salivary flow rate was obtained by using the gravimetric method. After the animals were killed, parotid glands were removed and mass and size were determined. The specimens were processed and stereological analysis revealed cell volume. Mean values of size and salivary flow rate varied from 9.007 mm and 0.015 mg/min in DS to 7.854 mm and 0.029 mg/min in DP, respectively. ANOVA showed statistically significant differences between groups for size (p=0.0028) and salivary flow rate (p=0.0003). Psychotropic drugs caused hyposalivation in rats and acinar hypertrophy in their parotid glands. Pilocarpine, a cholinergic agonist with topical appliance, showed significant secretagogue action in the treatment of hyposalivation induced by Diazepam chronic use.

Orthodontic intervention combined with myofunctional therapy in patients with skeletal unilateral posterior crossbite provided an increase in the electromyographic activity of the masseter and temporalis muscles during mandibular rest and habitual mastication, with predominantly bilateral mastication.