Impaired salivary gland function in NOD mice: Association with changes in cytokine profile but not with histopathologic changes in the salivary gland

Abstract

Consistent with previous findings, our results indicate at least 2 phases of SS-like disease in NOD mice. Hyposalivation was preceded by inflammatory changes in the salivary glands, whereas abrupt changes in secretion occurred without significant progression of inflammation. Changes in cytokine levels are an indication of the mechanisms involved in the adaptive immune response in the transition from early to overt disease.