Basic fibroblast growth factor in human saliva decreases with aging

Abstract

Objective: Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) has significant properties in wound healing and tissue repair and is suggested to be of importance for the maintenance of mucosal integrity in the upper digestive tract. The purpose of the present study was to identify any age-dependent variations in the concentration of bFGF in human saliva. Study Design: Non-prospective, cross-sectional pilot study. Methods: The study was based on findings from 182 healthy volunteers with ages ranging from 4 to 97 years. Mixed saliva samples were obtained by drooling. The saliva concentration of bFGF was determined with a commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit. Results: The mean saliva concentration of bFGF was 0.41 pg/mL with no gender differences. In persons aged 4 to 19 years, the mean concentration was 0.72 pg/mL; in those aged 20 to 65 years, 0.33 pg/mL; and in those aged 66 to 97 years, 0.005 pg/mL. These age-dependent differences were highly significant. In the youngest group the saliva concentration of bFGF varied more than in the other groups. Conclusions: The saliva concentration of bFGF varies with individual age, with the highest levels among young individuals, even levels during a mature phase of life, and low levels toward the end of the life cycle. This strongly suggests a physiological implication of bFGF in saliva.