Inorganic nitrate alleviates irradiation-induced salivary gland damage by inhibiting pyroptosis

Over 80% of patients undergoing radiotherapy (RT) for head and neck cancer (HNC) suffer reduced saliva secretion and dry mouth symptoms due to salivary gland damage. Although therapeutic interventions to alleviate such RT-induced damage are available, long-term hypofunction remains a significant issue. Therefore, novel therapeutic solutions to prevent irradiation (IR)-induced salivary gland damage are required. This study explored the protective...