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Updated: May 9, 2026
09:54
Identification and Characterization of Protein Glycosylation using Specific Endo- and Exoglycosidases
Published on: December 26, 2011
Lysosomal exoglycosidases in nasal polyps.
Sylwia Chojnowska1, Alina Minarowska, Małgorzata Knaś
1Medical Institute, College of Computer Science and Business Administration, Lomza, Poland. sylwiachoj@o2.pl
Otolaryngologia Polska = the Polish Otolaryngology
|August 6, 2013
Summary
Nasal polyps show decreased concentrations of specific enzymes like beta-galactosidase (GAL), alpha-fucosidase (FUC), and alpha-mannosidase (MAN). This finding supports theories on the role of glycoconjugates in nasal polyp pathogenesis.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Otorhinolaryngology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Nasal polyps are grape-shaped growths from nasal mucosa obstructing airflow.
- Current treatment is surgical, but etiology and pathogenesis remain unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess lysosomal exoglycosidase activity in nasal polyps.
- Specifically measured beta-galactosidase (GAL), alpha-mannosidase (MAN), and alpha-fucosidase (FUC) activity.
Main Methods:
- Enzyme activity assays were performed on nasal polyp tissue from 40 patients.
- Control tissues were obtained from the nasal mucosa of 20 patients.
Main Results:
- Nasal polyps exhibited significantly lower concentrations of GAL and FUC compared to healthy nasal mucosa.
- A trend towards decreased MAN and glucose (GLU) concentration was observed in polyps.
- No differences in specific enzyme activity (GAL, MAN, FUC) were found between polyp and control tissues.
Conclusions:
- Findings support the bioelectrical theory of nasal polyp pathogenesis.
- Highlights the importance of investigating glycoconjugates and glycosidases in nasal mucosa extracellular matrix.
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