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Updated: May 27, 2026
11:13
Collection, Expansion, and Differentiation of Primary Human Nasal Epithelial Cell Models for Quantification of Cilia Beat Frequency
Published on: November 10, 2021
Solubilizing agents in nasal formulations and their effect on ciliary beat frequency
A Vetter1, P Augustijns, A Bernkop-Schnürch
1Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Institute of Pharmacy, Leopold-Franzens-University Innsbruck, Innrain 52, Josef Möller Haus, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria. Anja.Vetter@uibk.ac.at
Summary
Selected solubilizers in nasal drug formulations can impact ciliary beat frequency (CBF) and nasal mucosa. Studies evaluating CBF with relevant solubilizer concentrations are crucial for developing safe and effective nasal medications.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Drug Delivery
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Nasal drug formulations commonly utilize various solubilizers.
- The effect of these solubilizers on nasal physiology, specifically ciliary function, requires thorough investigation.
- Ciliary beat frequency (CBF) is a critical indicator of nasal mucociliary clearance and overall nasal health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the concentration-dependent effects of common solubilizers on human nasal epithelial cell cultures.
- To determine the impact of these solubilizers on ciliary beat frequency (CBF).
- To assess the cytotoxicity and reversibility of solubilizer effects on nasal cilia.
Main Methods:
- Human nasal epithelial cells were cultured and exposed to various solubilizers.
- Ciliary beat frequency (CBF) was measured using high-speed digital imaging.
- Half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50), cytotoxicity (LDH assay), and reversibility were determined for each solubilizer.
Main Results:
- A rank order of solubilizers based on IC50 values was established, with glycerol and propylene glycol showing lower inhibition.
- Propylene glycol and polyethylene glycol 300 demonstrated the highest reversibility (approx. 75%) at 30% (v/v).
- N,N-dimethylacetamide exhibited the highest cytotoxicity (5.2%) at 14.5% (v/v).
Conclusions:
- Several solubilizers commonly used in nasal formulations can significantly alter ciliary beat frequency (CBF).
- These alterations can impact nasal mucosa function and mucociliary clearance.
- CBF assessments are essential during the development of nasal drug products to ensure safety and efficacy.
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