Epithelial physical barrier defects in chronic rhinosinusitis

Area of Science:

• Upper airway disease
• Epithelial biology
• Immunology

Background:

• Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) affects over 10% of the population.
• Epithelial physical barrier defects are increasingly implicated in CRS pathogenesis.
• Tight junctions (TJs) are crucial for maintaining epithelial barrier integrity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advances in the structure, function, and regulation of the epithelial physical barrier in CRS.
• To summarize factors contributing to epithelial barrier defects in CRS.
• To highlight key genes and molecules involved in modulating barrier function.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent studies on epithelial barrier function in CRS.
• Analysis of factors affecting tight junction molecules and epithelial barrier function.
• Identification of genes/molecules implicated in CRS-related barrier defects.

Main Results:

• Epithelial barrier defects in CRS can be caused by inhaled allergens, infections, cytokines, hypoxia, and zinc deficiency.
• Genes/molecules such as SPINK5, S100A7, S100A8/9, PCDH1, NDRG1, SPRR, and p63 are involved in modulating physical barrier function.
• The precise mechanisms underlying these barrier defects require further investigation.

Conclusions:

• Epithelial physical barrier dysfunction is a significant factor in chronic rhinosinusitis.
• Multiple internal and external factors contribute to these defects.
• Further research is needed to elucidate the exact molecular pathways and therapeutic targets.