Young Children Display Diurnal Patterns of Salivary IgA and Alpha-Amylase Expression Which Are Independent of Food Intake and Demographic Factors

摘要

Background Salivary alpha-amylase (sAA) and salivary immunoglobulin A (sIgA) have been proposed as biomarkers for research on the mucosal immune system and on stress. Expression of both sAA and sIgA has been described to follow opposing diurnal patterns. This knowledge is crucial for the interpretation of studies using these biomarkers.