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Groundbreaking Discovery of New Salivary Gland by AIIMS Bhopal

AIIMS Bhopal has made a groundbreaking discovery by identifying a new salivary gland, the tubarial gland, located in the nasopharynx. This finding, confirmed through extensive research on preserved cadavers, promises to enhance surgical precision and revolutionize cancer treatment. The research team, led by prominent doctors, has provided significant evidence supporting this discovery, which has been published in a reputable journal. This milestone not only highlights India's growing scientific prowess but also opens new avenues for understanding human anatomy and improving medical practices. Read on to explore the implications of this remarkable finding.
By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 1, 2026, 18:53 IST

Significant Medical Breakthrough


A remarkable advancement in medical science has emerged from AIIMS Bhopal, marking a significant milestone in Indian medical research. Doctors at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences have identified a previously unknown gland in the human body, termed the tubarial gland. This gland is located at the back of the nose and the upper throat (nasopharynx area) and has been recognized as an independent salivary gland.

The research team at AIIMS Bhopal confirmed this discovery after nearly three years of extensive study involving over 150 preserved cadavers. For the first time, the duct associated with this gland has been scientifically validated with unprecedented clarity. This groundbreaking finding was published in the Journal of Anatomy in November 2025, granting it international recognition.


Importance of This Discovery



  • Enhanced precision in head and neck surgeries, as surgeons will now have a better understanding of the anatomical structure in this region.


  • Revolutionary implications for cancer treatment, particularly in radiotherapy and planning for head and neck cancers. Preserving this gland could reduce side effects significantly.


  • New directions for disease identification and treatment, as this area was previously not fully understood.


  • This discovery underscores that there are still new findings to be made in human anatomy, despite centuries of study.



The research team from AIIMS Bhopal included Dr. Sunita Arvind Athavale, Dr. Sheetal Kotgirwar, Dr. Manal M. Khan, Dr. Anshul Rai, Dr. Deepti, and other specialists. This finding strengthens the debate initiated by a Dutch study in 2020, which first proposed the existence of this gland, but AIIMS Bhopal has now conclusively demonstrated its independence with macroscopic and histological evidence.

This moment is historic for medical science, showcasing India's growing scientific capabilities. AIIMS Bhopal has once again proven that Indian institutions can conduct research that inspires hope worldwide!