Transforming growth factor beta in chronic obstructive sialadenitis of human submandibular gland

Backgound: The exact pathomechanism of inflammation progress and fibrosis in chronic obstructive sialadenitis is unknown. The aim of the present study was to assess whether there is an association between transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) and fibrogenic process of chronic sialadenitis. Methods: Tissue samples of 12 patients with chronic sialadenitis and 4 normal tissue samples of the submandibular gland were examined immunohistochemically for identification of TGF-β. TGF-β1 messenger RNA (mRNA) expression was analysed semiquantitatively using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and gel electrophoresis to correlate its expression levels with stages of the disease. Results: TGF-β positive cells could be found in the secretory duct system of all examined samples. However, an intense TGF-β immunoreactivity was observed in inflamed salivary glands. With progress of disease TGF-β1 mRNA expression increases significantly. Conclusion: Expression of TGF-β in chronic sialadenitis and its apparent increase in advanced stages of the disease, suggests that this growth factor may play a role in glandular fibrosis.