Salivary protein quantity, ionic value, and protein movement in stunted and non-stunted children in Indonesia

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to analyze total salivary protein quantity, ionic activity, and protein molecular movement in children with and without stunting. Material and Method: Saliva samples were collected from 30 children aged 4-6years (15stunted and15 non-stunted). Proteins were extracted using 0.1 M HCI. The total protein quantity was determined using the Bradford assay and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Salivary ionic activity (dissolved oxygen, conductivity, and total dissolved solids) and salivary viscosity were measured using an ionic meter and an Ostwald viscometer, respectively. Statistical analyses included independent t-tests, Kruskal-Wallis tests, and Spearman correlation analyses (a=0.05). Results: Stunted children had a lower mean total salivary protein quantity than non-stunted children, although the difference was not statistically significant. Salivary viscosity was slightly higher in the stunted group. FTIR analysis demonstrated reduced molecular intensity and area movement in the stunted group. The dissolved oxygen levels differed significantly between the groups (p < 0.05), whereas conductivity and total dissolved solids did not. Conclusion: Stunting was associated with reduced molecular movement of salivary proteins and altered ionic activity, particularly dissolved oxygen levels. These findings suggest that chronic malnutrition may compromise salivary quality and potentially increase oral health vulnerability in children with stunted development.

Access to Document

Other files and links

• Link to publication in Scopus
• Open Access Version Available

Fingerprint