Submandibular glands, nerve growth factor and neuroinflammatory responses in rodents

Abstract

Structural, biochemical, and pharmacological studies have provided numerous insights into the role of rodent submandibular glands in a variety of physiopathgological functions. In this review we briefly highlight past and present findings published by our group and others regarding the role of rodent submandibular glands and nerve growth factor in inflammatory events. Accordingly, the role of mouse salivary glands and nerve growth factor in neuroinflammatory responses, body temperature, and parasitic infection are discussed, and are potential future lines of studies aimed at elucidating their physiopathological roles are suggested.