Rate of flow of parotid secretion during constant stimulation

Abstract

Thirty-one healthy, male individuals in a 17–21-year-age group were subjected to a bilateral collection of parotid secretion. Flow was elicited by chewing flavored chicle for a total stimulation period of 1 hour. All collections were made under carefully controlled regimen with minimal environmental and physical changes tolerated. Minute-to-minute rates of flow were not found to be predictable, but there was a pattern which was dependent upon the masticatory and gustatory stimuli. In a given individual it was possible to predict the flow rate of each of the parotid glands over 15-minute intervals. No glandular exhaustion was evident and hourly rate of flow was remarkably constant. Each gland showed an inherent individuality which was apparent throughout the complete period of excitation. Submitted on March 14, 1960