Spit Happens: Restoring Salivary Gland Function - Theresa Wrynn

Year
2026
Organisation
University of Buffalo
Tags
Salivary Glands
Saliva
radiation therapy
cancer treatment
Gland Damage
Salivary Gland Dysfunction
Dry Mouth
oral health
XBP1
Cellular Function
Cell Death
Tissue Structure
Computational Algorithm
Disease
ageing
regeneration
Therapeutic Options
Patient Discomfort
Cancer Survivors
Oral Infections
Tongue Fissures
cell biology
molecular biology
biomedical research
Gland Function
saliva production
Tissue Repair
Clinical Need
Long-Term Therapy
health research
Summary

This research investigates salivary gland damage caused by radiation therapy, disease and ageing. Focusing on cellular regulation, she identifies XBP1 as a key “manager” maintaining gland structure, cell survival and saliva production. Understanding this mechanism could guide future therapies for patients living with painful, incurable salivary gland dysfunction.