Analysis of the mechanism in salivary gland development using gene database

Abstract Objectives Salivary gland hypofunction, known as xerostomia, caused by radiation therapy for head & neck cancer and Sjӧgren's syndrome, causes various problems in oral health, and profoundly reduces quality of life. This review describes our database in the area of oral biology to establish new therapies for patients suffering from xerostomia. Highlight Here we review the recent approaches that have enabled us to better understand the mechanisms of salivary gland development. Furthermore, we highlight proposed approaches intended to recover salivary gland function using both gene and cell-based therapy. Conclusions A thorough understanding of the mechanisms involved in salivary gland is necessary in order to design effective therapies for regeneration of damaged salivary glands.