Aging-Related Metabolic Dysfunction in the Salivary Gland: A Review of the Literature

Aging-related salivary dysfunction commonly induces the poor oral health, including decreased saliva flow and dental caries. Although the clinical significance of the salivary glands is well-known, the complex metabolic pathways contributing to the aging-dysfunction process are only beginning to be uncovered. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of the metabolic changes in aging-mediated salivary gland dysfunction as a key aspect of oral physiology. Several metabolic neuropeptides or hormones are involved in causing or contributing to salivary gland dysfunction, including hyposalivation and age-related diseases. Thus, aging-related metabolism holds promise for early diagnosis, increased choice of therapy and the identification of new metabolic pathways that could potentially be targeted in salivary gland dysfunction.

Automated summary

The study reveals that aging-related metabolic changes may trigger salivary gland dysfunction, leading to poor oral health. Various metabolic neuropeptides or hormones are involved in causing or contributing to salivary gland dysfunction, including decreased saliva flow and age-related diseases. Therefore, aging-related metabolism shows promise for early diagnosis, increased therapy options, and identifying new metabolic pathways that could potentially be targeted in treating salivary gland dysfunction.