Use of Fourier Transform IR Spectroscopy for the Study of Saliva Composition

The IR spectrum of saliva may be divided into groups of absorption bands corresponding to lipids, proteins, nucleic acids, and sugars. The finding of thiocyanate ion absorption bands is a characteristic feature of the spectra of saliva. In comparing a typical IR spectrum of saliva with the spectra of albumin, glucose, and lysozyme, a similarity is noted at 1100–1040 cm–1 with the spectrum of albumin and at 1700–1400 cm–1 with the spectra of glucose and lysozyme. It was shown that sugars are found in saliva in a form bound with proteins. Correlations were found between band intensities in the IR spectrum of saliva and its biochemical composition.