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Glucocorticoid receptor expression in the tonsils of children with obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome

X Chen1, J R Li1

  • 1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Navy General Hospital, Beijing, China.

Genetics and Molecular Research : GMR
|April 7, 2016
PubMed

Insights

Children with obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) have lower tonsil glucocorticoid receptor-alpha (GR-α) expression. This may indicate reduced sensitivity to glucocorticoid treatments in pediatric OSAHS patients, warranting further research.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Pediatrics
  • Endocrinology

Background:

  • Obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) is a common condition in children.
  • Glucocorticoid receptors (GR) play a crucial role in immune and inflammatory responses.
  • Glucocorticoid receptor-alpha (GR-α) is associated with glucocorticoid therapy sensitivity.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the expression levels of GR-α and GR-β in the tonsil tissues of children with and without OSAHS.
  • To explore potential differences in GR expression that might explain treatment responses in pediatric OSAHS.

Main Methods:

  • Western blot and immunohistochemical analyses were used to detect GR-α and GR-β expression.
  • Tonsil tissues from 30 children with OSAHS and 30 non-OSAHS children were analyzed.
  • Diagnosis of OSAHS was confirmed by polysomnography.

Main Results:

  • Both GR-α and GR-β were expressed in tonsil tissues of both groups.
  • GR-α expression was significantly lower in children with OSAHS compared to controls.
  • GR-β expression levels were similar between OSAHS and non-OSAHS children.

Conclusions:

  • Pediatric OSAHS is associated with reduced GR-α expression in tonsil tissues.
  • Lower GR-α levels may suggest decreased sensitivity to glucocorticoid therapy in children with OSAHS.
  • Further investigation is needed to fully understand the role of GR in pediatric OSAHS.

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