Integrating genomic data from high-throughput studies with computational modeling reveals differences in the molecular basis of hyposalivation between type 1 and type 2 diabetes

Objectives: Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes are accompanied by a high prevalence of hyposalivation (decreased salivary secretion), resulting in oral tissue damage. However, the molecular basis for the hyposalivation is yet unknown. Identifying genes and proteins that account for diabetes-related hyposalivation will help understanding the basis for this condition and identifying disease biomarkers in saliva. Materials and methods: We integrated genomic data from 110 high-throughput studies with computational modeling, to explore the relationship between diabetes and salivary glands on a genomic scale. Results: A significant overlap exists between genes that are altered in both types of diabetes and genes that are expressed in salivary glands; 87 type 1 diabetes and 34 type 2 diabetes associated genes are also common to salivary glands. However, the overlap between these genes is not significant. Conclusions: Type 1 and type 2 diabetes associated genes are involved in the salivary secretion process, but mostly at different parts of it. This suggests that type 1 and type 2 diabetes impair salivary secretion by affecting different processes in the salivary tissue. Clinical relevance: The genomic characteristics of Type 1 and type 2 diabetes may explain differences in salivary gland tissues morphology and saliva composition in people with diabetes, and suggest candidate proteins for diabetes salivary biomarkers.