Full Upregulation of α1 and β1 adrenergic receptors as an effective factor on hyposalivation of patients with OLP

Objectives: Oral lichen planus (OLP) is one of the common chronic, autoimmune disorders in oral cavity. Regarding the role of adrenergic receptors in mediating stress and that’s effect on salivary composition, the purpose of this study was to investigate salivary levels of α1- and β1-adrenergic receptors in OLP patients to response to this research question: Do agonist or antagonist of adrenergic receptors affect hyposalivation of OLP patients? Method: In this case-control study, stimulated and unstimulated saliva samples were collected from 33 patients and 33 healthy individuals. The salivary flow rate and levels of α1- and β1-adrenergic receptors were measured by ELISA assay. Data were analyzed using SPSS 25 and T-test. Results: The stimulated and unstimulated salivary flow rate was significantly lower in OLP patients than healthy subjects. The α1-adrenergic receptors in the unstimulated saliva of patients was significantly higher than in the healthy subjects (p<0.001). α1-receptor in unstimulated saliva in both groups of patients (p<0.001) and healthy subjects (p=0.006) was significantly higher than stimulated saliva in the same groups. The level of β1-adrenergic receptors in the patients was significantly higher in the unstimulated saliva (p=0.001) and lower in the stimulated saliva than in the healthy subjects (p=0.003). β1-receptor was significantly higher in the unstimulated saliva than stimulated saliva in the patients (p<0.001). Conclusion: high levels of α1- and β1-adrenergic receptors in saliva of OLP patients reduce salivary flow rate by increasing the salivary proteins, mucin and saliva viscosity. Selective antagonist of α1- and β1-adrenergic receptors Can improve hyposalivation of OLP patients. Keywords: Lichen Planus, Oral, Adrenergic Receptors, Adrenoceptors, saliva