Loading

Saliva Collection Handbook

Introduction

Saliva is an ideal testing fluid because samples can be collected in a convenient, minimally-invasive, and repeated manner. Researchers who are attracted by the ease of saliva testing do need to be aware, however, that they must follow proper saliva collection and handling procedures in order to obtain the highest quality data in their studies. We offer the following advice based on our extensive experience with saliva collection and testing.

Knowledge about saliva testing is rapidly growing and being revised. It is ultimately each researcher’s responsibility to make decisions about the best collection methods to use. We advise consulting the literature on the analytes to be measured, and when the available literature appears inadequate we strongly recommend a pilot study.

Preliminary Considerations

Variability of Salivary Analytes

Levels of many analytes in saliva do not remain static, and concentrations may change in response to a number of influences. (1-5) Several factors may be of importance depending on the analyte of interest and the nature of the study:

• The diurnal cycle of the analyte must be understood. In most cases, sample collection should be made at standardized times.
  

  Normal Diurnal Rhythm of Salivary Cortisol, n=26. (Internal Salimetrics Data)

• The response and recovery characteristics of each analyte should be understood so that sample collections are timed to properly capture responses.
• For analytes with pulsatile behavior we recommend collecting a minimum of three samples over a two hour period. Equal volumes from each of the samples should be pooled to create one sample that physically averages the fluctuations over that time period.

Effect of Mouth Location on Salivary Analytes

Most steroid hormones are not affected by flow rate or the location in the mouth where the samples are collected. Salivary levels of proteins such as a-amylase (sAA) and secretory IgA (SIgA) do vary according to mouth location, however. (6-8) In addition, levels of a few analytes such as dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) and SIgA decrease as saliva flow rates increase, and sAA may also be similarly affected (see below). (9,10)

In order to maintain consistency in the type of sample collected, some researchers prefer to use the unstimulated, whole saliva that pools on the floor of the mouth, collected by the passive drool technique. On the other hand, use of an absorbent device that can be placed in the mouth often makes possible studies with children or other individuals that have difficulty with the passive drool technique. Researchers should understand, however, that absorbent devices may possibly collect localized saliva rather than whole saliva, which may affect results for some analytes.

A recent examination of the effects of flow rate and mouth location on sAA measurement found that the type of swab used, location of the swab in the mouth, and duration of the collection all interacted to affect estimates of amylase activity. (6) It is therefore important that these factors are all carefully considered and standardized, in order to maintain a consistent basis within and between subjects.

The study on flow rate and mouth location also noted that sAA activity in samples of passive drool generally decreased as flow rates increased, suggesting that this marker may also be affected by flow in a manner similar to SIgA and DHEA-S. (6) Additional research is needed on this question, but Salimetrics currently advises that researchers should look at the secretion rate for sAA (i.e., the output as U/min) in addition to sAA activity (U/mL) when using sAA as a marker of nervous activity.

For analytes such as sAA, SIgA, and DHEA-S that are affected by flow rate, Salimetrics advises recording the amount of time necessary to collect the desired volume of saliva. The assay results are then multiplied by the flow rate (mL/min) in order to express the results as a secretion rate (output per unit of time).

Example (SIgA): 205.60 ug/mL x 1.33 mL/min = 273.45 ug/min

If an absorbent device such as the Salimetrics Oral Swab (SOS) is used to collect the saliva for determination of an analyte that is flow sensitive, the volume of saliva collected by the swab can be determined by weighing the device along with the storage tube before and after collection. (An approximate value of 1.0 g/mL may be assumed for the density of the saliva.) If the length of time the swab is in the mouth is also recorded the flow rate can then be estimated.

The device must be removed from the mouth before it reaches its capacity, however, since after that point the estimate of flow rate will not be accurate–the ceiling effect. (6)

This is especially a concern for smaller devices, which can reach saturation fairly quickly. A preliminary study may be necessary to determine the optimum collection period, and it may be difficult to find a collection duration that is guaranteed to work for all participants.

If samples will be used for genetic analysis, it is important to keep the cell pellet at the bottom of your whole saliva sample. Please see Collection for DNA Analysis. (6)

Sample Volume and Salivary Stimulants

Modern immunoassays are generally designed to work with small sample volumes, and in most cases stimulants should not be required to collect adequate sample. We recommend against the use of oral stimulants when collecting saliva samples, due to the possibility of causing assay interference or alteration of levels of some analytes. (11) If stimulants are absolutely necessary they must be used sparingly and in a consistent manner throughout the study. (12) Customers are encouraged to contact us concerning the necessary sample volume based on the number and type of assays to be performed prior to sample collection.

Combining Biomarker and DNA Analysis

If you are planning to include DNA analysis in your study, or if you think that you may want to analyze the samples for DNA at some future date, please see the advice on Collection for DNA Analysis below. In many cases, it may also be possible to perform DNA analysis on existing samples that have been archived from previous studies. Please contact us for details.

Research Participant Preparation and Documentation

In order to avoid the possibility of contaminating substances in the saliva that could interfere with the immunoassay, we recommend the following precautions for research participants who will be donating saliva:

• Avoid alcohol for 12 hours before sample collection.
• Do not eat a major meal within 60 minutes of sample collection.
• Avoid dairy products for 20 minutes before sample collection.
• Avoid foods with high sugar or acidity, or high caffeine content, immediately before sample collection, since they may compromise the assay by lowering saliva pH and increasing bacterial growth. (13,14)
• Rinse mouth with water to remove food residue before sample collection. Wait at least 10 minutes after rinsing before collecting saliva to avoid sample dilution.
• Document consumption of alcohol, caffeine, nicotine, and prescription and over-the-counter medications. (15-17)
• It is also advisable to document the physical activity level of research participants and the presence of oral diseases. (18,19)

Blood Contamination in Saliva

Contamination of saliva samples with blood can also be a concern because the levels of most analytes are higher in the general circulation than in saliva. Blood can leak into saliva under certain conditions, and even an invisible amount of blood contamination has the potential to falsely elevate salivary analyte levels. (20-22)   We recommend the following:

• Research participants should not brush their teeth within 45 minutes prior to sample collection. 
• Dental work should not be performed within 48 hours prior to sample collection.
• Research participants should be screened for oral health problems or injuries.
• Saliva samples visibly contaminated with blood should be discarded and recollected.
• Samples collected from populations that have little or no dental care, or known oral health problems, may be screened with our Blood Contamination Assay Kit (Salimetrics Item  No. 1-1302; 1-1302-5).

Sample Handling and Storage

Saliva contains mucus, which can make accurate pipetting difficult.  Salimetrics advises freezing all saliva samples once before performing the assay, followed by vortexing after the sample is thawed.  This procedure helps break up the mucus, and it can then be centrifuged into the bottom of the tube.  Any other cellular debris or food particles that were present are also removed in this step.  Remove the sample for testing from the clear solution, avoiding the pellet in the bottom of the tube.   Due to the viscosity of saliva, greater accuracy in sample volume is obtained by aspirating slowly, so as to avoid the formation of bubbles.

On the day samples are to be assayed, bring them to room temperature, vortex, and then centrifuge for 15 minutes at approximately 3,000 RPM (1500 x g). Assays should be performed using only clear saliva, avoiding any sediment present in the bottom of the tube. When pipetting viscous solutions such as saliva, greater accuracy in sample volume is obtained by aspirating slowly, in order to avoid the formation of bubbles. Re-centrifuge tubes following each freeze-thaw cycle since additional precipitates may develop upon refreezing.

If samples will be used for genetic analysis, it is important to keep the cell pellet at the bottom of your whole saliva sample. Please see Collection for DNA Analysis.

Collection Methods and Devices:
Adults and Older Children

For adults and children over the age of six we recommend two methods: passive drool or the Salimetrics Oral Swab.

Passive Drool

Passive drool is highly recommended because it is cost effective and approved for use with almost all analytes. To avoid problems with analyte retention or the introduction of contaminants, use only high quality polypropylene vials for collection, such as our 2 ml cryovials (Salimetrics Item No. 5002.01). The vials used must seal tightly and be able to withstand temperatures as low as -80ºC.

If you are collecting saliva for biomarker analysis and think that the sample may be used at some point for genetic analysis, please see Collection for DNA Analysis before proceeding.

Prior to Saliva Collection

1. Have research participants rinse with water 10 minutes prior to collection.
2. Cut plastic drinking straws into 2-inch (5 cm) pieces.
3. Give each research participant one straw piece and one cryovial.

Instructions for Collecting Saliva

1. Instruct participants to allow saliva to pool in the mouth. Some find it helpful to imagine eating their favorite food.
2. With head tilted forward, participants should drool down the straw and collect saliva in the cryovial. (It is normal for saliva to foam, so we advise using a vial with twice the capacity of the desired sample volume.)
   
   
3. Repeat as often as necessary until sufficient sample is collected. One mL (excluding foam) is adequate for most tests. Collection of samples to be analyzed for multiple analytes may require larger vials.

Secretory IgA & DHEA-S concentrations in saliva are affected by saliva flow rate, and a-amylase may also be affected. (6,9,10) We recommend expressing assay results in relation to the flow rate. See Effects of Flow Rate and Mouth Location, or contact us for details.

The Salimetrics Oral Swab (SOS)

Some research participants are not willing or able to drool saliva into a vial. If the saliva samples are to be analyzed for cortisol, testosterone, a-amylase, chromogranin A, cotinine, C-reactive protein, or SIgA, the Salimetrics Oral Swab (SOS) (Item No. 5001.02) is an excellent alternative to passive drool because of its ease of use. The SOS also helps filter mucus and other matter from the sample, which may help improve immunoassay results.

If your sample may be used for genetic analysis at some point, keep the collection device (SOS, SCS, SIS) along with the filtrate. Gloves should also be worn whenever handling the swabs to avoid DNA contamination. Please see Collection for DNA Analysis for more details.

The SOS is made of a non-toxic, inert polymer shaped into a 30 x 10 mm cylinder. It is not recommended for children under the age of six, due to the possibility of a choking hazard. However, Salimetrics offers infant- and child-appropriate collection devices made from exactly the same polymer. See Collection Methods and Devices: Infants and Small Children for more information.

The SOS should be ordered with a Swab Storage Tube (Item No. 5001.05), which consists of a capped, conical centrifuge tube with a separate insert that allows saliva to be centrifuged into the bottom of the conical tube. If centrifugation is not available, saliva from the swab may be expressed into a cryovial (Item No. 5002.01) using a needle-less 5 cc plastic syringe (see figure below).

Instructions for Use

1. Remove SOS from outer packaging and place into proper mouth location as directed (see placement diagram on next page). Keep SOS in place for 1-2 minutes to insure that it is saturated. (If collecting from the parotid glands in the cheek, saliva flow will be lower, and collection time should be extended for up to 5 minutes to ensure adequate volume.)

   Recommended SOS Placement
   * Saliva from the parotid glands has higher concentrations of α-amylase than pooled whole saliva from under the tongue
   †Concentrations may vary depending on location in the mouth
   ‡ Effect of mouth location not yet determined
   cortisol, cotinine, testosterone	Under front of tongue
   α-amylase* (with other analytes)	Under front of tongue
   α-amylase* (alone)	Between cheek and gum (near upper 2nd molar)
   SIgA†, CRP†	Placement may vary depending on focus of research
   Chromogranin A‡	Recommend under front of tongue



 

2. Place SOS into the swab storage tube insert.
3. Replace cap and snap securely onto tube.
4. For samples that will be sent to Salimetrics for testing, label the exterior of the tube using computer-generated, bar-coded labels provided by us, or waterproof pen.

   Use only labels recommended for freezing (cryolabels), not ordinary paper labels, which will fall off.

   
Before storage for periods longer than two years we recommend that the specimen be removed from the SOS by centrifugation or compression.

SOS Cautions:

• This device is not a toy and is intended for collection of Saliva. Use only as directed.
• Do not use this device for children under the age of 6
• Consult the section on Research Participant Preparation and Documentation above, and contact us with any questions.
• The SOS may cause temporary dryness of mucosal membranes or oral cavity.
• Use instructions must be distributed to each device user.

Collection Methods and Devices:
Infants and Small Children

Some older preschoolers are able to provide saliva samples by the passive drool method, but the use of absorbent devices is more customary when collecting saliva from small children. Due to the potential for choking when collection devices are placed in the mouth, collecting saliva from infants and children under the age of six requires special consideration.

In the past Salimetrics recommended two devices that could be held by a parent or a technician to insure that they were not swallowed by the child: the Sorbette, a small, arrowhead-shaped hydrocellulose sponge attached to a plastic shaft, (24,25) or braided cotton dental ropes. The Sorbette had limited absorption capacity (200-300 µL), however, and its use was limited to testing for cortisol, a-amylase, cotinine, and SIgA. Due to its small volume and rapid absorption rate, it was also difficult to estimate flow rates while using the Sorbette for samples that would be tested for SIgA, which requires correction for saliva flow. Cotton is also not an ideal collection material, due to its unpleasant taste and texture, the difficulty of recovering the saliva and/or analyte from the cotton, and the fact that it causes interference with certain biomarkers, including testosterone, SIgA, estradiol, DHEA, and progesterone. (25,26)

The Children’s Swab and Infant’s Swab

Salimetrics has since introduced two alternative versions of the SOS: the Salimetrics Children’s Swab (SCS) (Item No. 5001.06), for children under the age of 6, and the Salimetrics Infant’s Swab (SIS) (Item No. 5001.08) for infants under 6 months of age.

These are made of the same inert polymer as our SOS for adults, but they are manufactured in longer lengths, which allow one end to be held by a parent or technician while the other end is placed in the child’s mouth. The diameters of the SCS and SIS are appropriate for the size of the children’s mouths, 8mm and 5 mm, respectively. The polymer used for the swabs is very durable and can withstand chewing by the child, and its taste and texture are also acceptable to children. The extra-length SCS swab may also be used for saliva collection from infirmed patients to avoid any danger of choking. The volume of sample recovered from the SCS and SIS is typically in the range of 200-1000 µL. Like the original SOS, samples collected with either the SCS or the SIS may be tested for cortisol, cotinine, testosterone, SIgA, alpha-amylase, chromogranin A, and CRP.

Be sure you’ve collected enough volume. Too little volume may make it impossible to perform the test.

Instructions for Use

1. For the SCS, peel open the outer package and remove the device. For the SIS, peel open the packaging, but leave the crimped end of the swab attached to the packaging during collection, in order to prevent a choking hazard.
2. Securely hold one end of the device and try to place the other end under the child’s tongue. With infants it may only be possible to collect pooling saliva (often at the corners of the mouth). Re-introduce into the mouth as needed until the lower third of the swab is saturated. (20-30 seconds total for the SIS, 60-90 seconds total for the SCS.)
3. For the SIS, fully peel back the outer package to remove the swab for storage (see figure on left).
4. Place the saturated SIS or SCS into the Swab Storage Tube for recovery by centrifugation, or use a sryinge for immediate compression.

The compression method allows the researcher to determine if sufficient saliva has been collected on the first attempt, and the procedure can be repeated if necessary. Some researchers prefer to cut free the saturated portion of the swab before placing it in the centrifuge tube or syringe.

If the swab is used to collect samples for analytes that are affected by saliva flow, however, we advise placing the entire swab into the tube or syringe, in order to estimate saliva flow rates, as described above under Effects of Flow Rate and Mouth Location on Salivary Analytes. The entire swab may be placed in the Swab Storage Tube by inserting the saturated end first, followed by doubling over the dry end into the opening, and finally using the cap or plunger to push the entire swab into the interior space (see figure below).

Cautions:

• These devices are not toys and are intended for collection of saliva. Use only as directed.
• Adult assistance and supervision is required during use.
• Inspect device for tears or imperfections. DO NOT USE if cuts or tears are present.
• When not used as directed these devices may represent a choking hazard for children.
• Store out of reach of children.
• Use instructions must be distributed to each device user.

Collection Methods and Devices:
Non-Human Species

Hormones and other biomarkers in saliva are increasingly being used to monitor the health and well-being of animals. Cotton swabs or pads, either plain or flavored, have been used to collect saliva from deer, Guinea pigs, dogs, and primates. (27-31) Hydrocellulose eye spears have also been used to collect saliva from dogs. (32) Saliva has been collected from pigs by allowing them to chew on larger sponges attached to poles. (33) Saliva has even been collected from large and dangerous animals such as the rhinoceros by using a plastic spoon to scoop up several milliliters at a time from the lower lip. (34)

Salimetrics’ tests on the durability of the SCS suggest that it may be appropriate for use as a collection device for small, domestic animals, as long as the device is used in a supervised manner. The polymer used in the swab is very resistant to chewing, and even when the device was partially cut during testing, similar to what might occur during vigorous chewing by a dog, tearing off a portion was difficult.

The literature also contains numerous descriptions of techniques for saliva collection from mice and rats. These include capillary tubes, filter paper strips, plastic pipettes, and more sophisticated suction devices. Salimetrics does not have direct experience with such methods and cannot advise on their use.

Collection for DNA Analysis

Collection Methods and Sample Volume

Whole saliva samples are preferred for DNA analysis. A volume of 500µL whole saliva obtained through the passive drool technique is sufficient to gather DNA for multiple polymorphism assays. If collecting for genotyping only, we recommend collecting a second saliva sample at least 15 minutes after the initial collection.

DNA can be obtained from samples that have been collected for another type of analysis, and from all areas of the mouth. If your samples have been collected by the passive drool technique or with Salimetrics collection devices, collection of new samples specifically for DNA testing is often unnecessary.

DNA is found in the nuclei of cells. For DNA testing, the pellet formed by centrifugation of your saliva samples contains the cells that provide the DNA; do not discard the pellet if genetic testing is desired. If a collection device (i.e., the Salimetrics SOS, SCS, or SIS) is used to gather samples, save the collection device along with the filtrate, since cellular material often remains captured within the fibers of the collection device. If centrifuging samples in-house, simply leave the SOS in the storage compartment of the SST following centrifugation.

Additional collection devices such as buccal swabs may be acceptable; contact us for the latest advice.

• When collecting buccal cells, be sure to rub the inside of cheeks for 30-60 seconds with firm pressure.
• Multiple swab collections should be done at least 10 minutes apart.
• Take care not to touch the swab or brushes with your fingers.

Stability of DNA over Time

The DNA sequence of every individual is constant throughout life. Samples can be pulled from different “waves” of your project to submit for DNA testing; there will be no effect on the results.

Storing Saliva for DNA Analysis

DNA can tolerate storage at room temperature for up to 5 days without compromising the quality of the DNA for genetic testing. (35) DNA is also capable of undergoing multiple freeze-thaw cycles without a significant effect on the DNA quality.

If samples are to be tested for hormones or biomarkers in addition to DNA analysis, follow storage instructions for the more sensitive analyte (i.e., the hormone or biomarker) of interest. For genetic analysis alone, the Oragene•DNA® self-collection kit (OG-500) may be used when long-term room-temperature storage is necessary. Detailed collection and mailing instructions can be found in the Oragene•DNA kit package or at www.dnagenotek.com. For young children or people who are unable to spit, use the Oragene•DNA assisted collection format (OG-575) to collect whole saliva that pools in the mouth.

Please visit www.dnagenotek.com for more product and protocol information. Oragene products are also available for DNA collection from animals.

Avoiding Contamination of Samples

To prevent contamination of saliva samples for DNA analysis, we recommend the following precautions in addition to those recommended for immunoassay testing collection:

• Employ only single-use materials (disposable forceps, etc.) for sample collection/transfer to prevent possible contamination between research subjects.
• Those researchers assisting with collections should wear gloves and avoid touching collection device materials and samples.

References

1. West, C.D., Mahajan, D.K., Chavre, V.J., et al. (1973). Simultaneous measurement of multiple plasma steroids by radioimmunoassay demonstrating episodic secretion. J Clin Endocrinol Metab, 36(6), 1230-36.
2. Dorn, L.D., Lucke, J.F., Loucks, T.L., & Berga, S.L. (2007). Salivary cortisol reflects serum cortisol: Analysis of circadian profiles. Ann Clin Biochem, 44(pt3), 281-84.
3. Nater, U.M., Rohleder, N., Schlotz, W., et al. (2007). Determinants of the diurnal course of salivary alpha-amylase. Psychoneuroendocrinology, 32(4), 392-401.
4. Krieger, D.T. (1975). Rhythms of ACTH and corticosteroid secretion in health and disease and their experimental modification. J Steroid Biochem, 6(5), 758-91.
5. Rohleder, N., & Nater, U.M. (2009). Determinants of salivary α-amylase in humans and methodological considerations. Psychoneuroendocrinology, 34(4), 469-85.
6. Beltzer, E.K., Fortunato, C.K., Guaderrama, M.M., et al. (2010). Salivary flow and alpha-amylase: Collection technique, duration, and oral fluid type. Physiol Behav, 101(2), 289-96.
7. Crawford, J.M., Taubman, M.A., & Smith, D.J. (1975). Minor salivary glands as a major source of secretory immunoglobin A in the human oral cavity. Science 190 (4220), 1206-9.
8. Veerman, E.C., van den Keybus, P.A., Vissink, A., & Nieuw Amerongen, A.V. (1996). Human glandular salivas: Their separate collection and analysis. Eur J Oral Sci 104(4), 346-52.
9. Kugler, J., Hess, M., & Haake, D. (1992). Secretion of salivary immunoglobulin A in relation to age, saliva flow, mood states, secretion of albumin, cortisol, and catecholamines in saliva. J Clin Immunol, 12(1), 45-9.
10. Vining, R.F., McGinley, R., & Symons, R.G. (1983). Hormones in saliva: Mode of entry and consequent implications for clinical interpretation. Clin Chem, 29(10), 1752-56.
11. Granger, D.A., Kivlighan, K.T., Fortunato, C., et al. (2007). Integration of salivary biomarkers into developmental and behaviorally-oriented research: Problems and solutions for collecting specimens. Physiol Behav, 92(4), 583-90.
12. Talge, N.M., Conzella, B., Kryzer, E.M., et al. (2005). It’s not that bad: Error introduced by oral stimulants in salivary cortisol research. Dev Psychobiol, 47(4), 369-76.
13. Klein, L.C., Whetzel, C.A., Bennett, J.M., et al. (2006). Effects of caffeine and stress on salivary alpha-amylase in young men: A salivary biomarker of sympathetic activity. Presented at the annual meeting of the American Psychosomatic Society, Denver, CO.
14. Schwartz, E., Granger, D.A., Susman, E.J., et al. (1998). Assessing salivary cortisol in studies of child development. Child Dev, 69(6), 1503-13.
15. Granger, D.A., Blair, C., Willoughby, M., et al. (2007). Individual differences in salivary cortisol and α-amylase in mothers and their infants: Relation to tobacco smoke exposure. Dev Psychobiol, 49(7), 692-701.
16. Hibel, L.C., Granger, D.A., Cicchetti, D., & Rogosch, F. (2007). Salivary biomarker levels and diurnal variation: Associations with medications prescribed to control children’s problem behavior. Child Dev, 78(3), 927-37.
17. Hibel, L.C., Granger, D.A., Kivlighan, K.T., & Blair, C. (2006). Individual differences in salivary cortisol: Effects of common over the counter and prescription medications in infants and their mothers. Horm Behav, 50(2), 293-300.
18. Kivlighan, K.T. & Granger, D.A. (2006). Salivary α-amylase response to competition: Relation to gender, previous experience, and attitudes. Psychoneuroendocrinology, 31(6), 703-14.
19. Henskens, Y.M., van den Keijbus, P.A., Veerman, E.C., et al. (1996). Protein composition of whole and parotid saliva in healthy and periodontitis subjects: Determination of cystatins, albumin, amylase and IgA. J Periodont Res, 31(1), 57-65.
20. Schwartz, E., & Granger, D.A. (2004). Transferrin enzyme immunoassay for quantitative monitoring of blood contamination in saliva. Clin Chem, 50(3), 654-56.
21. Kivlighan, K.T., Granger, D.A., Schwartz, E.B., et al. (2004). Quantifying blood leakage into the oral mucosa and its effects on the measurement of cortisol, dehydroepiandrosterone, and testosterone in saliva. Horm Behav, 46(1), 39-46.
22. Granger, D.A., Cicchetti, D., Rogosch, F., et al. (2007). Blood contamination in children’s saliva: Prevalence, stability, and impact on the measurement of salivary cortisol, testosterone, and dehydroepiandrosterone. Psychoneuroendocrinology, 32(6), 724-33.
23. Whembolua, G.L., Granger, D.A., Singer, S., et al. (2006). Bacteria in the oral mucosa and its effects on the measurement of cortisol, dehydroepiandrosterone, and testosterone in saliva. Horm Behav, 49(4), 478-83.
24. de Weerth, C., Jansen, J., Vos, M.H., et al. (2007). A new device for collecting saliva for cortisol determination. Psychoneuroendocrinology, 32(8-10), 1144-48.
25. Harmon, A., Hibel, L.C., Rumyantseva, O., & Granger, D. A. (2007). Measuring salivary cortisol in studies of child development: Watch out–what goes in may not come out of commonly used saliva collection devices. Dev Psychobiol, 49(5), 495-500.
26. Shirtcliff, E.A., Granger, D.A., Schwartz, E., & Curran, M. J. (2001). Use of salivary biomarkers in biobehavioral research: Cotton based sample collection methods can interfere with salivary immunoassay results. Psychoneuroendocrinology, 26(2), 165-73.
27. Millspaugh, J.J., Washburn, B.E., Milanick, M.A., et al. (2002). Non invasive techniques for stress assessment in white-tailed deer. Wildlife Society Bulletin, 30(3), 899-907.
28. Emack, J., Kostaki, A., Walker, C.D., Matthews, S. G. (2008). Chronic maternal stress affects growth behavior and hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal function in juvenile offspring. Horm Behav, 54(4), 514-20.
29. Lutz, C.K., Tiefenbacher, S., Jorgensen, M.J., et al. (2000). Techniques for collecting saliva from awake, unrestrained adult monkeys for cortisol assay. Am J Primatol, 52(2), 93-99.
30. Newman, J. L., Perry, J. L., & Carroll, M. E. (2007). Social stimuli enhance phencyclidine (PCP) self-administration in rhesus monkeys. Pharmacol Biochem Behav, 87(2), 280-88.
31. Horvath, Z., Igyártó, B.Z., Magyar, A., & Miklósi, Á. (2007). Three different coping styles in police dogs exposed to a short-term challenge. Horm Behav, 52(5), 621-30.
32. Dreschel, N.A., & Granger, D.A. (2009). Methods of collection for salivary cortisol measurement in dogs. Horm Behav, 55(1), 163-8.
33. Gutiérrez, A.M., Martínez-Subiela, S., Eckersall, P.D., & Cerón, J.J. (2009). C-reactive protein quantification in porcine saliva: A minimally invasive test for pig health monitoring. Vet J, 181(3), 261-5.
34. Gómez, A., Jewell, E., Walker, S., & Brown, J. (2004). Use of salivary steroid analyses to assess ovarian cycles in an Indian rhinoceros at the National Zoological Park. Zoo Biol, 23, 501-12.
35. Granger, D.A., Horvat-Gordon, M., Fortunato, C.K., et al. Assessing genetic polymorphisms in studies of childdevelopment using oral fluid as a biospecimen. Paper in press.

• About Us

  ---

• News

  ---

• Saliva Researchers

  ---

• Salimetrics Locations

  ---

• Training & Events

  ---

• Literature

  ---

• Contact & Support

• The SPIT Report
• SPIT Camp
• SPIT Tips
• Certified SPIT Labs

Ask A Question

---

800.790.2258

support@salimetrics.com

Testimonials

“The technical service staff's attentiveness and expertise saved me a lot of work when trying to determine if I would be able to use Salimetrics kits with my treated, archived samples.”

• Faces of Salimetrics
• Faces of Salimetrics
• Faces of Salimetrics
• Faces of Salimetrics
• Faces of Salimetrics
• Faces of Salimetrics
• Faces of Salimetrics
• Faces of Salimetrics