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Luffa operculata affects mucociliary function of the isolated frog palate
Mônica Aidar Menon-Miyake1, Regiani Carvalho de Oliveira, Geraldo Lorenzi-Filho
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
American Journal of Rhinology
|September 21, 2005
Summary
Luffa operculata dry fruit infusion (DFI) negatively impacts nasal mucociliary function. This study found that DFI significantly reduces ciliary beat frequency and transport velocity, indicating potential harm to nasal mucosa.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Nasal Physiology
- Alternative Medicine Research
Background:
- Luffa operculata dry fruit infusion (DFI) is a traditional remedy for nasal symptoms.
- Concerns exist regarding its potential to irritate nasal mucosa, causing epistaxis or anosmia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of L. operculata DFI on nasal mucociliary function.
- To evaluate its impact on ciliary beat frequency, mucociliary transport velocity, and ion-fluid transport.
Main Methods:
- An isolated frog palate model was used to assess DFI effects.
- Measurements included mucociliary transport velocity, ciliary beat frequency, and transepithelial potential difference (PD).
- Ultrastructural analysis was performed on epithelial samples.
Main Results:
- DFI significantly decreased mucociliary transport velocity and ciliary beat frequency in a dose-dependent manner.
- A dose-dependent decrease in PD modulus indicated ion-fluid transport abnormalities.
- Electron microscopy revealed enlarged interepithelial spaces.
Conclusions:
- L. operculata DFI significantly alters nasal epithelium mucociliary function.
- The findings suggest L. operculata DFI may be noxious to human nasal mucosa.