Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 3, 2026

Author Spotlight: Advancing Allergic Rhinitis Research with Multicolor Immunofluorescence
Published on: September 22, 2023
[The effect of PM2.5 on mucus secretion and ultrastructureof nasal mucosa in allergic rhinitis model]
1Department of Otolaryngology,Huadong Hospital,Fudan University,Shanghai,200040,China.
Abstract:
Objective:The aim of this study is to the roles of nasal lavage fluid levels of MUC5AC, goblet cell hyperplasia and ultrastructure of nasal mucosa following ambient PM2.5 exposure in a rat model of allergic rhinitis(AR).Method:Female Sprague-Dawley rats were assigned randomly into 3 groups: a negative control group(NC group),an ovalbumin(OVA)-induced AR model group(AR group), and AR model group(ARE group) inhaled to PM2.5 at 200 μg/m³, 3 h/d, for 30 days. Nasal symptoms, levels of MUC5AC in nasal lavage fluid(NLF), were measured in each individual rat.Goblet cell hyperplasia were examined histologically with PAS-stained. Nasal mucosa tissue ultrastructure were observed by scanning electron microscope.Result:PM2.5 significantly increased the number of sneezes, nasal rubs and the amount of nasal secretion in rats with AR.Statistically significant differences in MUC5AC levels and goblet cell hyperplasia were observed between the AR model exposure to PM2.5 and the AR model group.The nasal mucosa of AR model exposure to PM2.5 was disordered,lodged,assembled and twisted.Conclusion:Our data indicate that an increase MUC5AC level in NLF and the development of nasal goblet cell hyperplasia may provide some clues for determining the pathogenic mechanisms of AR by exposure to PM2.5.
Insights
Exposure to ambient fine particulate matter (PM2.5) exacerbates allergic rhinitis (AR) symptoms in rats. PM2.5 increases MUC5AC levels and goblet cell hyperplasia in the nasal mucosa, contributing to AR pathogenesis.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Immunology
- Respiratory Medicine
Context:
- Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a common condition.
- Ambient fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is a significant environmental pollutant.
- The impact of PM2.5 on AR pathogenesis requires further elucidation.
Purpose:
- To investigate the effects of PM2.5 exposure on nasal lavage fluid (NLF) MUC5AC levels, goblet cell hyperplasia, and nasal mucosa ultrastructure in a rat model of AR.
- To understand the role of PM2.5 in exacerbating AR symptoms.
Summary:
- Rats with AR exposed to PM2.5 exhibited increased sneezing, nasal rubs, and nasal secretions compared to controls.
- PM2.5 exposure led to significantly elevated MUC5AC levels and goblet cell hyperplasia in the nasal lavage fluid and tissue, respectively.
- Scanning electron microscopy revealed disordered nasal mucosa ultrastructure in PM2.5-exposed AR rats.
Impact:
- Findings suggest that elevated MUC5AC levels and goblet cell hyperplasia are key indicators of PM2.5-induced AR.
- This study provides insights into the pathogenic mechanisms of AR influenced by air pollution.
- Results highlight the detrimental effects of PM2.5 on respiratory health in allergic individuals.
Related Concept Videos
Allergic Reactions
Allergic Drug Reactions
Nose and Nasal Cavity
Administering Oxygen by Nasal Cannula
Nasal Cannulas
A nasal cannula is a lightweight tube split into two prongs placed in the nostrils,...
Regulation of Hormone Secretion
Humoral...
Hormones Secreted by the Stomach
Each of these hormones secreted by different enteroendocrine cells plays a unique role in digestion. Here are a few examples:

