Comparison of superoxide dismutase activity in saliva of smokers and nonsmokers.

BACKGROUND: Considering the role of superoxide dismutase (SOD) as one of the most important salivary antioxidant enzymes, this study was performed to compare the level of this enzyme in smokers and nonsmokers. METHODS: Unstimulated saliva of 60 volunteers (30 smokers and 30 nonsmokers) was collected. The activity of salivary SOD was measured in each group and compared. RESULTS: The mean value of superoxide dismutase activity was significantly higher in the smoking group (P < 0.001), while no detectable activity level was found in nonsmokers. CONCLUSION: Cigarette smoke leads to an elevation in salivary superoxide dismutase activity.