Saliva Molecular Markers Offer Non-Invasive Prediction of Cancer, Heart Disease, and Parkinson's Risk

Researchers from the University of the Basque Country have uncovered a groundbreaking use of saliva as a diagnostic tool for systemic diseases. By analyzing saliva samples from over 350 individuals, the team identified hundreds of molecular markers—specifically genetic polymorphisms (SNPs)—that can signal an increased risk of developing major health conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and neurodegenerative disorders like Parkinson’s. Their findings, published in npj Genomic Medicine, demonstrate that saliva, a readily accessible biological fluid, harbors genetic information capable of reflecting systemic health states.

The study highlights that these genetic polymorphisms act as biological switches, turning specific genes on or off, which influences disease susceptibility. When comparing their data with global genetic studies, the scientists observed that many of these saliva-based markers are associated with higher risks for common diseases such as prostate cancer, coronary artery disease, Parkinson's, and Type 2 diabetes. Notably, using advanced statistical models, the researchers showed that these markers can explain a significant portion of the genetic heritability of these conditions, often with greater accuracy than traditional blood-based indicators.

Professor José Ramón Bilbao emphasized the underutilized potential of saliva in clinical practice, noting that saliva is one of the most accessible biological fluids. This research paves the way for the development of non-invasive, saliva-based diagnostic tests for early disease detection and ongoing health monitoring, eliminating the need for invasive procedures like blood draws. Another major contribution is the creation of an extensive, open-access database of genetic saliva data, intended to foster further research and innovation across biomedical fields.

While further validation in larger populations is necessary, this pioneering work suggests a future where early detection and personalized medicine could be significantly transformed using saliva as a diagnostic medium, making health assessments more accessible and less invasive. The findings underscore the incredible diagnostic potential hidden in everyday biological samples, opening new avenues for preventive healthcare.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-06-saliva-analysis-reveal-cancer-heart.html