ptyaline

Ptyaline is a protein found in the saliva of humans and other mammals. It is a member of the statherin family, which includes other proteins like statherin and histatin. Ptyaline plays a crucial role in maintaining the oral environment by binding to calcium ions, which helps to prevent the formation of dental calculus (tartar) and tooth decay. Its ability to chelate calcium also contributes to the buffering capacity of saliva, helping to maintain a stable pH level in the mouth. Ptyaline is synthesized in the salivary glands, particularly in the parotid glands, and is released into the saliva in response to various stimuli, such as food intake or mechanical stimulation. The protein is relatively stable and can withstand the acidic conditions of the stomach, which allows it to be detected in the bloodstream and used as a biomarker for certain diseases, including pancreatic cancer. Ptyaline's multifunctional properties make it an interesting subject for further research in the fields of dentistry, medicine, and biology.