Concentrations of Immunoglobulin G and Amylase in Saliva of Moderately Protein Undernourished Rats

Chronic protein insufficiency was achieved in rats with an 8% protein diet initiated at weaning. The amount of total protein/ml of saliva, volume of saliva secreted in 30 min, and total protein in stimulated saliva collected during 30 mm were decreased in the in utero malnourished rats. Malnutrition applied after weaning did not significantly suppress saliva flow. Albumin levels in saliva and the host defense capacity of saliva in the level of IgG were not significantly suppressed by dietary status. However amylase was found at a lower level in saliva.