Cmpk2 Gene and Protein Expression in Saliva or Salivary Glands of Dyslipidemic Mice

Salivary biomarkers are promising molecules for diagnosing systemic diseases. Cytidine/uridine monophosphate kinase 2 (CMPK2) is associated with various systemic diseases. However, little is known about the role of the CMPK2 gene in saliva and dyslipidemia. This study investigated the relationship between serum lipid levels and Cmpk2 mRNA expression in the saliva of dyslipidemic mice. Additionally, immunofluorescence staining was employed to assess the localization of the CMPK2 protein in the submandibular gland. Two types of dyslipidemic mice were utilized: mice fed a high-fat and high-cholesterol (HFHC) diet and genetically dyslipidemic ApoE-deficient mice. The mice at 9 to 46 weeks were analyzed for serum lipid levels, Cmpk2 mRNA expression in saliva, and CMPK2 protein localization in the submandibular glands. Both dyslipidemic mice displayed elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and total cholesterol in serum. ApoE-deficient mice apparently exhibited increased Cmpk2 expression in saliva. Immunofluorescence staining indicated that CMPK2 proteins were primarily localized in the serous acini, potentially associated with the secretion of Cmpk2 mRNA in saliva. These findings suggest that Cmpk2 mRNA increases and is detectable in the saliva of dyslipidemic mice, providing a viable experimental model to assess the potential use of CMPK2 as a biomarker for dyslipidemia.