What molecule, in free form, is secreted at concentrations of about 50 μM in saliva?

Unlock all questions

This demo includes only 20 questions. Upgrade to access hundreds of questions, flashcards, exam simulations, and disable ads.

Full question bankExam simulationsFlashcards
From $24.99Unlock all

Prepare for the Microbiology and Immunology 6400 Oral Intermicrobial Interactions Test. Study with engaging materials, flashcards, and multiple-choice questions. Each question offers hints and detailed explanations. Ace your exam today!

Multiple Choice

What molecule, in free form, is secreted at concentrations of about 50 μM in saliva?

Explanation:
Free amino acids in saliva can contribute to buffering the oral environment and supporting mucosal health. Histidine stands out because its side chain, the imidazole group, has a pKa near physiological pH. That lets the imidazole ring accept or donate protons around the pH of saliva, providing effective buffering as acids are produced by oral bacteria. At about 50 μM in saliva, histidine can meaningfully contribute to maintaining a stable pH in the mouth. The other amino acids listed can be present in saliva, but they don’t typically sit at this buffering-relevant free concentration, and their properties don’t give the same buffering capability at physiological pH.

Free amino acids in saliva can contribute to buffering the oral environment and supporting mucosal health. Histidine stands out because its side chain, the imidazole group, has a pKa near physiological pH. That lets the imidazole ring accept or donate protons around the pH of saliva, providing effective buffering as acids are produced by oral bacteria. At about 50 μM in saliva, histidine can meaningfully contribute to maintaining a stable pH in the mouth. The other amino acids listed can be present in saliva, but they don’t typically sit at this buffering-relevant free concentration, and their properties don’t give the same buffering capability at physiological pH.

More Multiple Choice Questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy