Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 19, 2026

Mucin Agarose Gel Electrophoresis: Western Blotting for High-molecular-weight Glycoproteins
Published on: June 14, 2016
Increased expression of hCLCA1 in chronic rhinosinusitis and its contribution to produce MUC5AC
Ha Kyun Kim1, Jin Ho Kook2, Ka Ram Kang1
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea.
Objectives/Hypothesis:
Mucus hypersecretion is a hallmarks of chronic rhinosinusitis. The expression of MUC5AC, a major respiratory mucin gene, is increased in chronic rhinosinusitis. The mechanisms inducing mucus hypersecretion have not been fully evaluated in chronic rhinosinusitis. Human Ca2+ -activated Cl- channel 1 (hCLCA1) is implicated in the regulation of mucus production, airway fluid, and electrolyte transport. The present study objectives was to investigate the expression of hCLCA1 in chronic rhinosinusitis and evaluate whether its level is altered by stimulation with type 1 T helper (Th1) and Th2 cytokines, and to determine the possible role of hCLCA1 on the regulation of mucin 5AC (MUC5AC) production.
Study Design:
Controlled prospective study.
Methods:
The expression of hCLCA1 and MUC5AC in normal and inflammatory ethmoid mucosa was determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemistry, and Western blot. In cultured cells, the expression of hCLCA1 and MUC5AC was measured after stimulation with Th1 and Th2 cytokines. In a supernatant, the MUC5AC level was analyzed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay after treatment with niflumic acid.
Results:
The levels of hCLCA1 and MUC5AC were increased in chronic rhinosinusitis, irrespective of nasal polyp presence, where they were distributed in superficial epithelial cells and submucosal glands. In cultured cells treated with interleukin (IL)-9, IL-4, IL-13, tumor necrosis factor-α, transforming growth factor-β, interferon-γ, and IL-1β, the expression of hCLCA1 and MUC5AC was increased. In cells treated with niflumic acid, the production of MUC5AC was inhibited.
Conclusions:
The current findings indicate that the expression of hCLCA1 is increased in chronic rhinosinusitis and may be regulated by Th1 and Th2 cytokines, possibly contributing to the production of MUC5AC.
Level Of Evidence:
NA Laryngoscope, 126:E347-E355, 2016.
Related Concept Videos
Microbiota of the Respiratory Tract
Cystic Fibrosis: Pathogenesis
CF is primarily caused by a genetic mutation in a chromosome 7 gene coding for the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein. The most common gene mutation leading to CF is the ΔF508 mutation,...
Cystic Fibrosis: Management
Sinus disease and chronic...
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-II: Pathophysiology
Chronic Inflammation
Anatomy of Respiratory System I: Upper Respiratory Tract
Nose and nasal cavity
The nose and nasal cavity represent the main external openings of the respiratory tract....
Chronic Pharyngitis
Etiology
It often arises from persistent viral or bacterial infections affecting sinuses and tonsils.
Additional contributing factors include inadequate dental hygiene, mouth breathing, recurring tonsillitis, allergic rhinitis, laryngopharyngeal reflux, and exposure to smoke, chemicals, and other environmental pollutants. Allergic reactions to pollen, mold, and pet dander, chronic cough, excessive voice usage,...

