Identification of antigens recognized by salivary IgA using microbial protein microarrays

Secretory IgA plays an important role in the mucosal immune system for protection against pathogens. However, the antigens recognized by these antibodies have only been partially studied. We comprehensively investigated the antigens bound by salivary IgA in healthy adults using microbial protein microarrays. This confirmed that saliva contained IgA antibodies that bind to a variety of pathogenic microorganisms, including spike proteins of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus, Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus , other human coronavirus species. Also, many subtypes , strains of influenza virus were bound, regardless of the seasonal or vaccine strains. Salivary IgA also bound many serogroups and serovars of Escherichia coli and Salmonella. Taken together, these findings suggest that salivary IgA, which exhibits broad reactivity, is likely an essential element of the mucosal immune system at the forefront of defense against infection.

Automated summary

This study found that saliva from healthy adults contains IgA antibodies that can bind to various pathogens, including coronaviruses, influenza viruses, Escherichia coli, and Salmonella. These findings suggest that salivary IgA may play a crucial role in the mucosal immune system.