Are there conceptual advantages to performing gene transfer in salivary glands as opposed to an internal organ?
Absolutely. First, unlike most internal organs, a salivary gland is not critical for life. Should a problem arise, people will continue to survive with low levels of saliva. Second, we have direct access to the gland. Its opening is right there in the mouth, and we can infuse the Aquaporin-1 gene directly into a major salivary gland. There is no need for anaesthesia or surgery.
