Naturally occurring antibodies to bovine serum albumin in the parotid saliva of rats

Antibodies to bovine serum albumin were detected in the parotid saliva of untreated rats and rats, the glands of which had been repeatedly instilled with saline via their ducts. The incidence and titre of antibodies were higher after ductal instillation of saline. It is suggested that local sensitization occurs, probably due to bovine milk components which are present in the food pellets, gaining access to immunocompetent cells within the gland. No antibodies to bovine serum albumin were found in the serum.