Hyaluronidase Activity in Human Saliva

Abstract

THE HYALURONIDASES are a group of mueolytic enzymes1] 2, 3 which hy-drolyze hyaluronic acid, a mucopolysaceharide found in tissue of mesodermal origin-connective tissue and intercellular cement substance. ' 4, 5, 6 Many papers concerned with hyaluronidases have appeared in recent medi-cal literature, where they are sometimes classified as "spreading factors, " be-cause they have the power to increase tissue permeability. Under certain condi-tions these factors enhance the spread of infections. 7 8, 9 Spreading factors have been demonstrated in several body fluids and testicular, pancreatic, skin, spleen, and salivary gland extracts.4' Saliva has also been demonstrated to aid in the spread of infection.'3 A spreading factor, which was obtained from salivary gland extracts, has been named kallikrein. The spreading effect of this substance is known but its enzymatic action has not been demonstrated." ' 12 Other possible sources of the spreading factors or hyaluronidase in saliva are cocei,1 ' 14-18 which may be found in the dentinal tubuli, plaques, calcareous deposits, and gingival tissue affected