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Nitric oxide accumulation in the nonventilated nasal cavity
J M Chatkin1, W Qian, P A McClean
1Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil. jose.chatkin@utoronto.ca
Archives of Otolaryngology--Head & Neck Surgery
|June 15, 1999
Summary
Nitric oxide (NO) accumulates in the nonventilated nasal cavity over time. Peak nasal NO levels after accumulation are significantly higher than initial levels, suggesting an alternative NO source.
Area of Science:
- Respiratory Physiology
- Airway Inflammation
- Nitric Oxide Biology
Background:
- Nasal nitric oxide (NO) concentrations are notably higher in the upper airway compared to the lower respiratory tract.
- Understanding the dynamics of NO within the nasal cavity is crucial for respiratory health research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the rate and extent of nitric oxide accumulation within the nonventilated nasal cavity.
- To quantify peak nitric oxide levels following periods of nasal occlusion.
Main Methods:
- Healthy subjects with trained velopharyngeal closure were studied.
- Nitric oxide levels were measured during constant airflow and subsequent nasal occlusion.
- Accumulation time was varied to determine its effect on peak nitric oxide concentrations.
Main Results:
- A slow rise to a steady-state plateau of nasal nitric oxide was observed during airflow.
- Peak nitric oxide levels after nasal occlusion were significantly elevated, ranging from 2810-19008 ppb.
- The accumulated peak nitric oxide levels increased proportionally with the duration of nasal occlusion (P<.001).
Conclusions:
- Nitric oxide concentrations demonstrably accumulate in the nonventilated nasal cavity in direct proportion to occlusion time.
- The high peak nasal nitric oxide values achieved post-accumulation mirror those found via direct sinus puncture.
- These findings indicate a significant, potentially alternative, endogenous source of nitric oxide within the human nasal passages.