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Neuronal markers in allergic rhinitis: expression and correlation with sensory testing.
Stephen O'Hanlon1, Paul Facer, Karen D Simpson
1Peripheral Neuropathy Unit, Hammersmith Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK.
The Laryngoscope
|August 2, 2007
Summary
Sensory nerve changes, including increased nerve marker protein gene product 9.5 (PGP 9.5) and nerve growth factor (NGF), are linked to allergic rhinitis symptoms and nasal hypersensitivity.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Neuroscience
- Otorhinolaryngology
Background:
- Allergic rhinitis is primarily linked to immunoglobulin E (IgE) hypersensitivity.
- The role of sensory nerves in rhinitis symptoms remains unclear.
- This study investigates neuronal markers and their correlation with nasal sensitivity in allergic rhinitis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify specific neuronal markers in allergic rhinitis patients.
- To explore the relationship between nerve markers and nasal sensitivity.
- To identify potential new therapeutic targets for rhinitis.
Main Methods:
- Recruited 40 patients undergoing nasal surgery (17 with rhinitis, 23 controls).
- Assessed nasal sensitivity using graded monofilaments.
- Analyzed inferior turbinate biopsies for nerve fibers (PGP 9.5, substance P, neuropeptide tyrosine) and nerve growth factor (NGF) using immunohistology.
Main Results:
- Significantly increased PGP 9.5, substance P, and neuropeptide tyrosine nerve fibers in allergic rhinitis patients.
- Elevated epithelial nerve growth factor (NGF) immunoreactivity in rhinitis.
- Nasal sensitivity correlated with PGP 9.5 subepithelial innervation and epithelial NGF.
Conclusions:
- Increased sensory nerve markers and phenotypic changes are associated with allergic rhinitis.
- These nerve alterations may contribute to nasal hypersensitivity.
- Findings suggest novel therapeutic targets for rhinitis treatment.
