Functional Genomics Using High-Throughput Methods for Salivary Analysis in Sjögren's Disease.

OBJECTIVES

Primary Sjögren's disease (SjD) is a slow-progressing autoimmune disease that affects salivary and lacrimal glands, causing dry eyes (xerophthalmia) and dry mouth (xerostomia). Diagnosing SjD involves clinical, serological, and histological assessments, but reliable biomarkers are lacking.

METHODS

This study analyzed the metabolic and proteomic profiles of 19 female SjD patients (based on ACR-EULAR criteria) compared to 20 healthy individuals. Saliva and blood samples were analyzed using mass spectrometry and chromatography. Proteomic analysis was performed with the nanoElute nanoflow system coupled to a timsTof-Pro mass spectrometer, and metabolic profiling with a GC-TOF/MS Pegasus HT.

RESULTS

Statistical tests identified significant differences in metabolites and proteins between SjD patients and controls. Metabolome analysis revealed changes in amino acid synthesis, purine and lipid metabolism, and exposure to external compounds. Proteomic analysis indicated immune-related proteins and inflammatory lipid metabolism. GNAI2, B2MG, NGAL, SLUR2, HS90, SODC, and A2GL emerged as potential biomarkers for SjD.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates the potential of high-performance techniques in identifying biomarkers for SjD diagnosis and prognosis. Data are available via ProteomeXchange (PXD055629).