Lorena Baccaglini | University of Nebraska Medical Center (original) (raw)

Papers by Lorena Baccaglini

Research paper thumbnail of Unintentional injuries in the home in the United States

American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 2005

Emergency Departments. The nonfatal unintentional home injury rate and 95% confidence interval we... more Emergency Departments. The nonfatal unintentional home injury rate and 95% confidence interval were computed for the United States overall (1998 -1999), as well as by type of injury, gender, and age group. Weights were applied for each data set as designated by the National Center for Health Statistics.

Research paper thumbnail of Urban legends series: Lichen planus

Research paper thumbnail of Cationic liposome-mediated gene transfer to rat salivary epithelial cellsin vitro andin vivo

The Journal of Gene Medicine, 2001

Background Previously we have shown that gene transfer to salivary gland epithelial cells readily... more Background Previously we have shown that gene transfer to salivary gland epithelial cells readily occurs via recombinant adenoviruses, although the response is short-lived and results in a potent host immune response. The aim of the present study was to assess the feasibility of using cationic liposomes to mediate gene transfer to rat salivary cells in vitro and in vivo.

Research paper thumbnail of Salivary glands as a model for craniofacial applications of gene transfer

International Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, 2000

The potential applications of gene transfer technology to all branches of medicine are increasing... more The potential applications of gene transfer technology to all branches of medicine are increasing. It is quite likely that within the next 10-20 years surgical practice routinely will utilize gene transfer, at least adjunctively. The purpose of this review is to familiarize the oral and maxillofacial surgeon with molecular medicine; salivary glands. this technology. Studies performed with salivary glands in animal models are presented as examples of proof of concept.

Research paper thumbnail of Gender gap in facial pain among US adults

Oral Surgery Oral Medicine Oral Pathology Oral Radiology and Endodontology, 2005

Conclusions. These findings suggest that hypoxia may contribute to the degradation or remodeling ... more Conclusions. These findings suggest that hypoxia may contribute to the degradation or remodeling of the extracellular matrix of the TMJ disc and may have a role in the pathogenesis of TMD.

Research paper thumbnail of Sample size for genetic epidemiologic studies of craniofacial diseases

Oral Surgery Oral Medicine Oral Pathology Oral Radiology and Endodontology, 2006

Introduction: The standard of care for patients taking aspirin, and who require invasive dental p... more Introduction: The standard of care for patients taking aspirin, and who require invasive dental procedures, is to cease the use of aspirin before the procedure. The purpose of this study was to determine if aspirin is associated with increased bleeding outcomes following tooth extraction.

Research paper thumbnail of Association between herpes simplex virus type 1 and Helicobacter Pylori

Oral Surgery Oral Medicine Oral Pathology Oral Radiology and Endodontology, 2004

Numerous studies suggest that herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) increases the risk of HIV-1 inf... more Numerous studies suggest that herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) increases the risk of HIV-1 infection but recent clinical trials of HSV-2 suppressive therapy failed to show an effect. We assessed the putative association between HSV-2 and HIV-1 in a population of HIV-concordant-negative, HIV-1-discordant and HIV-1-concordant-positive married couples from Dakar, Senegal. In agreement with previous studies, we observed a strong overall association between HSV-2 and HIV-1 (odds ratio 4.61; P , 0.001). However, this association was mainly determined by a low HSV-2 prevalence in HIV-concordant-negative couples compared with HIV-1-discordant and HIV-1-concordant-positive couples (23% versus 59% and 66%, respectively; P , 0.001). We observed no further differences in HSV-2 prevalence between HIV-1-discordant and HIV-1-concordant-positive couples (59% and 66%, respectively; P ¼ 0.483). Neither the index (59% versus 62%, P ¼ 1.000) nor recipient partners (41% versus 63%, P ¼ 0.131) in HIV-1-discordant and HIV-1-concordant-positive couples showed significant differences in HSV-2 prevalence. HSV-2 does not constitute a clear risk factor for HIV-1 infection in this population.

Research paper thumbnail of Association Between Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis and Upper Gastrointestinal tract disease

Oral Surgery Oral Medicine Oral Pathology Oral Radiology and Endodontology, 2007

Objective. Previous studies have suggested that intraoral recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) may... more Objective. Previous studies have suggested that intraoral recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) may occur in association with lower gastrointestinal tract disease. However, it is unclear whether RAS is linked to upper gastrointestinal tract disease (UGTD). The objective of this study was to determine whether RAS and UGTD are associated.

Research paper thumbnail of Association between herpes simplex virus type 1 and Helicobacter pylori in US adolescents

Oral Surgery Oral Medicine Oral Pathology Oral Radiology and Endodontology, 2006

Numerous studies suggest that herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) increases the risk of HIV-1 inf... more Numerous studies suggest that herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) increases the risk of HIV-1 infection but recent clinical trials of HSV-2 suppressive therapy failed to show an effect. We assessed the putative association between HSV-2 and HIV-1 in a population of HIV-concordant-negative, HIV-1-discordant and HIV-1-concordant-positive married couples from Dakar, Senegal. In agreement with previous studies, we observed a strong overall association between HSV-2 and HIV-1 (odds ratio 4.61; P , 0.001). However, this association was mainly determined by a low HSV-2 prevalence in HIV-concordant-negative couples compared with HIV-1-discordant and HIV-1-concordant-positive couples (23% versus 59% and 66%, respectively; P , 0.001). We observed no further differences in HSV-2 prevalence between HIV-1-discordant and HIV-1-concordant-positive couples (59% and 66%, respectively; P ¼ 0.483). Neither the index (59% versus 62%, P ¼ 1.000) nor recipient partners (41% versus 63%, P ¼ 0.131) in HIV-1-discordant and HIV-1-concordant-positive couples showed significant differences in HSV-2 prevalence. HSV-2 does not constitute a clear risk factor for HIV-1 infection in this population.

Research paper thumbnail of Design and statistical analysis of oral medicine studies: common pitfalls

Oral Diseases, 2010

Oral Diseases (2010) 16, 233–241A growing number of articles are emerging in the medical and stat... more Oral Diseases (2010) 16, 233–241A growing number of articles are emerging in the medical and statistics literature that describe epidemiologic and statistical flaws of research studies. Many examples of these deficiencies are encountered in the oral, craniofacial, and dental literature. However, only a handful of methodologic articles have been published in the oral literature warning investigators of potential errors that may arise early in the study and that can irreparably bias the final results. In this study, we briefly review some of the most common pitfalls that our team of epidemiologists and statisticians has identified during the review of submitted or published manuscripts and research grant applications. We use practical examples from the oral medicine and dental literature to illustrate potential shortcomings in the design and analysis of research studies, and how these deficiencies may affect the results and their interpretation. A good study design is essential, because errors in the analysis can be corrected if the design was sound, but flaws in study design can lead to data that are not salvageable. We recommend consultation with an epidemiologist or a statistician during the planning phase of a research study to optimize study efficiency, minimize potential sources of bias, and document the analytic plan.

Research paper thumbnail of Environmental Triggers in Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis

Oral Surgery Oral Medicine Oral Pathology Oral Radiology and Endodontology, 2008

Research paper thumbnail of P47 Survey of radiation oncologists' knowledge level and practice patterns for prevention of dental complications

Oral Oncology Supplement, 2007

Research paper thumbnail of Storage of poisonous substances and firearms in homes with young children visitors and older adults

American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 2005

Background: Most unintentional childhood poisonings and firearm injuries occur in residential env... more Background: Most unintentional childhood poisonings and firearm injuries occur in residential environments. Therefore, a preventive strategy includes limiting children's access to poisons and firearms through safe storage. This study examines storage of poisons and firearms among households with older adults, and households where young children reside compared to those where they visit only.

Research paper thumbnail of Unintentional injuries in the home in the United States

American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 2005

Emergency Departments. The nonfatal unintentional home injury rate and 95% confidence interval we... more Emergency Departments. The nonfatal unintentional home injury rate and 95% confidence interval were computed for the United States overall (1998 -1999), as well as by type of injury, gender, and age group. Weights were applied for each data set as designated by the National Center for Health Statistics.

Research paper thumbnail of Do Partners With Children Know About Firearms in Their Home? Evidence of a Gender Gap and Implications for Practitioners

Objective. The gender gap describing the apparent differences in male and female reports of firea... more Objective. The gender gap describing the apparent differences in male and female reports of firearm-ownership and -storage habits has never been evaluated among individuals who live in the same household. Thus, the objective of this study was to examine the level of agreement on household firearms and storage practices among cohabiting partners.

Research paper thumbnail of World Workshop on Oral Medicine IV: Process and methodology for systematic review and developing management recommendations

Oral Surgery Oral Medicine Oral Pathology Oral Radiology and Endodontology, 2007

Research paper thumbnail of HYPOTHESIS: Sjögren's syndrome: a possible pathogenetic mechanism involving somatostatin

Oral Diseases, 2008

Sjögren's syndrome is a chronic systemic disease that primarily affects the salivary and lacrimal... more Sjögren's syndrome is a chronic systemic disease that primarily affects the salivary and lacrimal glands. The pathogenesis of Sjögren's syndrome is unknown. We hypothesize that reduced somatostatin activity is an important factor in promoting immune dysregulation in patients affected by Sjögren's syndrome. Somatostatin is a multifunctional peptide with potent immunomodulatory properties. Its effects include reduced lymphocytic activity, reduced gastric and intestinal secretions, activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis, and anti-inflammatory action, all opposite to the general presentation in Sjögren's syndrome. We suggest that the activity of somatostatin is low in patients affected by this disease, and this contributes significantly to the pathology observed.

Research paper thumbnail of Using Salivary Glands as a Tissue Target for Gene Therapeutics

Journal of Drug Targeting, 2001

Research paper thumbnail of Oral and craniofacial findings in Fabry's disease: A report of 13 patients

Oral Surgery Oral Medicine Oral Pathology Oral Radiology and Endodontology, 2001

Fabry's disease is an X-linked metabolic disease caused by the deficiency of the lysosoma... more Fabry's disease is an X-linked metabolic disease caused by the deficiency of the lysosomal enzyme alpha-galactosidase A. The purpose of this study was to assess oral and craniofacial findings in a cohort of patients with Fabry's disease to facilitate recognition of this condition and early treatment of its manifestations. This is a case series describing oral and craniofacial findings of 13 male patients diagnosed with Fabry's disease. Data were collected by means of a standardized questionnaire, clinical examination, panoramic and cephalometric radiographs, and magnetic resonance imaging. A variety of abnormalities are described, including an increased prevalence of cysts/pseudocysts of the maxillary sinuses (PCMs) and the presence of maxillary prognathism. Given the high prevalence of oral and dental abnormalities, we recommend a thorough stomatologic evaluation of these patients.

Research paper thumbnail of Salivary gland delivery of pDNA-cationic lipoplexes elicits systemic immune responses

Oral Diseases, 2002

To test the ability of two cationic lipoplexes, Vaxfectin and GAP-DLRIE/DOPE, to facilitate trans... more To test the ability of two cationic lipoplexes, Vaxfectin and GAP-DLRIE/DOPE, to facilitate transfection and elicit immune responses from plasmid DNAs (pDNAs) after retrograde instillation into salivary glands. Two pDNA expression vectors encoding either the influenza NP protein or human growth hormone (hGH) were complexed with the cationic lipid transfection reagents, GAP-DLRIE/DOPE or Vaxfectin, and delivered to the submandibular glands of rats. Samples from rats receiving the influenza NP protein pDNA and cationic lipoplexes were analyzed for anti-influenza NP-specific IgG1, IgG2a, and IgG2b in serum, and IgA in saliva, by an enzyme- linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Cytotoxic T-cell lymphocyte (CTL) assays were also performed. Transgene protein expression (hGH) was determined from extracts of submandibular glands of rats receiving hGH lipoplexes. Serum antibodies (IgG) against the NP protein developed and were highest in all rats vaccinated with GAP-DLRIE/DOPE or Vaxfectin. The major serum IgG subclass stimulated by this route of immunization was IgG2b, followed by IgG2a. CTL assay results showed statistically significantly higher percentage killing in the Vaxfectin group than controls (P < 0.05). No rats developed IgA antibodies to NP protein in saliva. Animals receiving plasmid encoding hGH and either lipoplex expressed significantly higher amounts of hGH compared with those receiving the hGH plasmid and water. Although hGH expression was higher in the animals receiving pDNA/Vaxfectin (approximately 30-fold > pDNA/water), the difference with those receiving pDNA/GAP-DLRIE/DOPE (approximately 10-fold > pDNA/water) was not significant. Retrograde instillation of pDNA complexed with Vaxfectin into the salivary glands can stimulate cytotoxic and humoral responses to the influenza NP protein antigen. Optimization of the conditions required to stimulate humoral and secretory antibody formation may facilitate use of this tissue for specific clinical applications of pDNA immunization.

Research paper thumbnail of Unintentional injuries in the home in the United States

American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 2005

Emergency Departments. The nonfatal unintentional home injury rate and 95% confidence interval we... more Emergency Departments. The nonfatal unintentional home injury rate and 95% confidence interval were computed for the United States overall (1998 -1999), as well as by type of injury, gender, and age group. Weights were applied for each data set as designated by the National Center for Health Statistics.

Research paper thumbnail of Urban legends series: Lichen planus

Research paper thumbnail of Cationic liposome-mediated gene transfer to rat salivary epithelial cellsin vitro andin vivo

The Journal of Gene Medicine, 2001

Background Previously we have shown that gene transfer to salivary gland epithelial cells readily... more Background Previously we have shown that gene transfer to salivary gland epithelial cells readily occurs via recombinant adenoviruses, although the response is short-lived and results in a potent host immune response. The aim of the present study was to assess the feasibility of using cationic liposomes to mediate gene transfer to rat salivary cells in vitro and in vivo.

Research paper thumbnail of Salivary glands as a model for craniofacial applications of gene transfer

International Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, 2000

The potential applications of gene transfer technology to all branches of medicine are increasing... more The potential applications of gene transfer technology to all branches of medicine are increasing. It is quite likely that within the next 10-20 years surgical practice routinely will utilize gene transfer, at least adjunctively. The purpose of this review is to familiarize the oral and maxillofacial surgeon with molecular medicine; salivary glands. this technology. Studies performed with salivary glands in animal models are presented as examples of proof of concept.

Research paper thumbnail of Gender gap in facial pain among US adults

Oral Surgery Oral Medicine Oral Pathology Oral Radiology and Endodontology, 2005

Conclusions. These findings suggest that hypoxia may contribute to the degradation or remodeling ... more Conclusions. These findings suggest that hypoxia may contribute to the degradation or remodeling of the extracellular matrix of the TMJ disc and may have a role in the pathogenesis of TMD.

Research paper thumbnail of Sample size for genetic epidemiologic studies of craniofacial diseases

Oral Surgery Oral Medicine Oral Pathology Oral Radiology and Endodontology, 2006

Introduction: The standard of care for patients taking aspirin, and who require invasive dental p... more Introduction: The standard of care for patients taking aspirin, and who require invasive dental procedures, is to cease the use of aspirin before the procedure. The purpose of this study was to determine if aspirin is associated with increased bleeding outcomes following tooth extraction.

Research paper thumbnail of Association between herpes simplex virus type 1 and Helicobacter Pylori

Oral Surgery Oral Medicine Oral Pathology Oral Radiology and Endodontology, 2004

Numerous studies suggest that herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) increases the risk of HIV-1 inf... more Numerous studies suggest that herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) increases the risk of HIV-1 infection but recent clinical trials of HSV-2 suppressive therapy failed to show an effect. We assessed the putative association between HSV-2 and HIV-1 in a population of HIV-concordant-negative, HIV-1-discordant and HIV-1-concordant-positive married couples from Dakar, Senegal. In agreement with previous studies, we observed a strong overall association between HSV-2 and HIV-1 (odds ratio 4.61; P , 0.001). However, this association was mainly determined by a low HSV-2 prevalence in HIV-concordant-negative couples compared with HIV-1-discordant and HIV-1-concordant-positive couples (23% versus 59% and 66%, respectively; P , 0.001). We observed no further differences in HSV-2 prevalence between HIV-1-discordant and HIV-1-concordant-positive couples (59% and 66%, respectively; P ¼ 0.483). Neither the index (59% versus 62%, P ¼ 1.000) nor recipient partners (41% versus 63%, P ¼ 0.131) in HIV-1-discordant and HIV-1-concordant-positive couples showed significant differences in HSV-2 prevalence. HSV-2 does not constitute a clear risk factor for HIV-1 infection in this population.

Research paper thumbnail of Association Between Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis and Upper Gastrointestinal tract disease

Oral Surgery Oral Medicine Oral Pathology Oral Radiology and Endodontology, 2007

Objective. Previous studies have suggested that intraoral recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) may... more Objective. Previous studies have suggested that intraoral recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) may occur in association with lower gastrointestinal tract disease. However, it is unclear whether RAS is linked to upper gastrointestinal tract disease (UGTD). The objective of this study was to determine whether RAS and UGTD are associated.

Research paper thumbnail of Association between herpes simplex virus type 1 and Helicobacter pylori in US adolescents

Oral Surgery Oral Medicine Oral Pathology Oral Radiology and Endodontology, 2006

Numerous studies suggest that herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) increases the risk of HIV-1 inf... more Numerous studies suggest that herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) increases the risk of HIV-1 infection but recent clinical trials of HSV-2 suppressive therapy failed to show an effect. We assessed the putative association between HSV-2 and HIV-1 in a population of HIV-concordant-negative, HIV-1-discordant and HIV-1-concordant-positive married couples from Dakar, Senegal. In agreement with previous studies, we observed a strong overall association between HSV-2 and HIV-1 (odds ratio 4.61; P , 0.001). However, this association was mainly determined by a low HSV-2 prevalence in HIV-concordant-negative couples compared with HIV-1-discordant and HIV-1-concordant-positive couples (23% versus 59% and 66%, respectively; P , 0.001). We observed no further differences in HSV-2 prevalence between HIV-1-discordant and HIV-1-concordant-positive couples (59% and 66%, respectively; P ¼ 0.483). Neither the index (59% versus 62%, P ¼ 1.000) nor recipient partners (41% versus 63%, P ¼ 0.131) in HIV-1-discordant and HIV-1-concordant-positive couples showed significant differences in HSV-2 prevalence. HSV-2 does not constitute a clear risk factor for HIV-1 infection in this population.

Research paper thumbnail of Design and statistical analysis of oral medicine studies: common pitfalls

Oral Diseases, 2010

Oral Diseases (2010) 16, 233–241A growing number of articles are emerging in the medical and stat... more Oral Diseases (2010) 16, 233–241A growing number of articles are emerging in the medical and statistics literature that describe epidemiologic and statistical flaws of research studies. Many examples of these deficiencies are encountered in the oral, craniofacial, and dental literature. However, only a handful of methodologic articles have been published in the oral literature warning investigators of potential errors that may arise early in the study and that can irreparably bias the final results. In this study, we briefly review some of the most common pitfalls that our team of epidemiologists and statisticians has identified during the review of submitted or published manuscripts and research grant applications. We use practical examples from the oral medicine and dental literature to illustrate potential shortcomings in the design and analysis of research studies, and how these deficiencies may affect the results and their interpretation. A good study design is essential, because errors in the analysis can be corrected if the design was sound, but flaws in study design can lead to data that are not salvageable. We recommend consultation with an epidemiologist or a statistician during the planning phase of a research study to optimize study efficiency, minimize potential sources of bias, and document the analytic plan.

Research paper thumbnail of Environmental Triggers in Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis

Oral Surgery Oral Medicine Oral Pathology Oral Radiology and Endodontology, 2008

Research paper thumbnail of P47 Survey of radiation oncologists' knowledge level and practice patterns for prevention of dental complications

Oral Oncology Supplement, 2007

Research paper thumbnail of Storage of poisonous substances and firearms in homes with young children visitors and older adults

American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 2005

Background: Most unintentional childhood poisonings and firearm injuries occur in residential env... more Background: Most unintentional childhood poisonings and firearm injuries occur in residential environments. Therefore, a preventive strategy includes limiting children's access to poisons and firearms through safe storage. This study examines storage of poisons and firearms among households with older adults, and households where young children reside compared to those where they visit only.

Research paper thumbnail of Unintentional injuries in the home in the United States

American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 2005

Emergency Departments. The nonfatal unintentional home injury rate and 95% confidence interval we... more Emergency Departments. The nonfatal unintentional home injury rate and 95% confidence interval were computed for the United States overall (1998 -1999), as well as by type of injury, gender, and age group. Weights were applied for each data set as designated by the National Center for Health Statistics.

Research paper thumbnail of Do Partners With Children Know About Firearms in Their Home? Evidence of a Gender Gap and Implications for Practitioners

Objective. The gender gap describing the apparent differences in male and female reports of firea... more Objective. The gender gap describing the apparent differences in male and female reports of firearm-ownership and -storage habits has never been evaluated among individuals who live in the same household. Thus, the objective of this study was to examine the level of agreement on household firearms and storage practices among cohabiting partners.

Research paper thumbnail of World Workshop on Oral Medicine IV: Process and methodology for systematic review and developing management recommendations

Oral Surgery Oral Medicine Oral Pathology Oral Radiology and Endodontology, 2007

Research paper thumbnail of HYPOTHESIS: Sjögren's syndrome: a possible pathogenetic mechanism involving somatostatin

Oral Diseases, 2008

Sjögren's syndrome is a chronic systemic disease that primarily affects the salivary and lacrimal... more Sjögren's syndrome is a chronic systemic disease that primarily affects the salivary and lacrimal glands. The pathogenesis of Sjögren's syndrome is unknown. We hypothesize that reduced somatostatin activity is an important factor in promoting immune dysregulation in patients affected by Sjögren's syndrome. Somatostatin is a multifunctional peptide with potent immunomodulatory properties. Its effects include reduced lymphocytic activity, reduced gastric and intestinal secretions, activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis, and anti-inflammatory action, all opposite to the general presentation in Sjögren's syndrome. We suggest that the activity of somatostatin is low in patients affected by this disease, and this contributes significantly to the pathology observed.

Research paper thumbnail of Using Salivary Glands as a Tissue Target for Gene Therapeutics

Journal of Drug Targeting, 2001

Research paper thumbnail of Oral and craniofacial findings in Fabry's disease: A report of 13 patients

Oral Surgery Oral Medicine Oral Pathology Oral Radiology and Endodontology, 2001

Fabry's disease is an X-linked metabolic disease caused by the deficiency of the lysosoma... more Fabry's disease is an X-linked metabolic disease caused by the deficiency of the lysosomal enzyme alpha-galactosidase A. The purpose of this study was to assess oral and craniofacial findings in a cohort of patients with Fabry's disease to facilitate recognition of this condition and early treatment of its manifestations. This is a case series describing oral and craniofacial findings of 13 male patients diagnosed with Fabry's disease. Data were collected by means of a standardized questionnaire, clinical examination, panoramic and cephalometric radiographs, and magnetic resonance imaging. A variety of abnormalities are described, including an increased prevalence of cysts/pseudocysts of the maxillary sinuses (PCMs) and the presence of maxillary prognathism. Given the high prevalence of oral and dental abnormalities, we recommend a thorough stomatologic evaluation of these patients.

Research paper thumbnail of Salivary gland delivery of pDNA-cationic lipoplexes elicits systemic immune responses

Oral Diseases, 2002

To test the ability of two cationic lipoplexes, Vaxfectin and GAP-DLRIE/DOPE, to facilitate trans... more To test the ability of two cationic lipoplexes, Vaxfectin and GAP-DLRIE/DOPE, to facilitate transfection and elicit immune responses from plasmid DNAs (pDNAs) after retrograde instillation into salivary glands. Two pDNA expression vectors encoding either the influenza NP protein or human growth hormone (hGH) were complexed with the cationic lipid transfection reagents, GAP-DLRIE/DOPE or Vaxfectin, and delivered to the submandibular glands of rats. Samples from rats receiving the influenza NP protein pDNA and cationic lipoplexes were analyzed for anti-influenza NP-specific IgG1, IgG2a, and IgG2b in serum, and IgA in saliva, by an enzyme- linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Cytotoxic T-cell lymphocyte (CTL) assays were also performed. Transgene protein expression (hGH) was determined from extracts of submandibular glands of rats receiving hGH lipoplexes. Serum antibodies (IgG) against the NP protein developed and were highest in all rats vaccinated with GAP-DLRIE/DOPE or Vaxfectin. The major serum IgG subclass stimulated by this route of immunization was IgG2b, followed by IgG2a. CTL assay results showed statistically significantly higher percentage killing in the Vaxfectin group than controls (P < 0.05). No rats developed IgA antibodies to NP protein in saliva. Animals receiving plasmid encoding hGH and either lipoplex expressed significantly higher amounts of hGH compared with those receiving the hGH plasmid and water. Although hGH expression was higher in the animals receiving pDNA/Vaxfectin (approximately 30-fold > pDNA/water), the difference with those receiving pDNA/GAP-DLRIE/DOPE (approximately 10-fold > pDNA/water) was not significant. Retrograde instillation of pDNA complexed with Vaxfectin into the salivary glands can stimulate cytotoxic and humoral responses to the influenza NP protein antigen. Optimization of the conditions required to stimulate humoral and secretory antibody formation may facilitate use of this tissue for specific clinical applications of pDNA immunization.