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In a recent study published by the Journal of Inflammation Research (2025), researchers have highlighted the complex role of Salivary Gland Epithelial Cells (SGEC) in Sjögren's disease. SGECs are not only victims of autoimmune injury but also play a significant role in saliva secretion. The study delves into how these cells can both protect against and contribute to the disease's progression. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the balance of calcium, endoplasmic reticulum, and mitochondrial homeostasis in SGECs, as well as the impact of Pattern Recognition Receptors and programmed cell death on these cells.
The findings suggest that targeting SGECs could be a promising approach to treating Sjögren's disease by addressing the inflammatory response in the salivary glands. This underscores the need for further research to fully understand the dual role of SGECs and develop effective treatments that can restore salivary gland function and improve patients' quality of life.