Neurohormonal markers in chronic rhinosinusitis.

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Rhinology
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) with nasal polyps lacks clear understanding of its causes and effective treatments.
• Previous research indicated Interleukin-33 (IL-33) and Substance P (SP) activate mast cells, while Interleukin-37 (IL-37) inhibits them.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the expression of neurohormonal mediators IL-33, SP, and IL-37 in mast cell stimulation within nasal polyposis.
• To explore the role of these mediators in the pathophysiology of nasal polyps.

Main Methods:

• Prospective collection of nasal lavage fluid and polyp tissue from CRS patients and controls.
• Analysis using Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR).
• Measurement of SP, IL-33, and IL-37 levels and gene expression.

Main Results:

• Substance P (SP) levels were highest in polyp patients, but gene expression was lower than controls.
• Interleukin-33 (IL-33) levels were reduced in polyp patients compared to allergic rhinitis and sinusitis patients.
• Interleukin-37 (IL-37) was elevated in lavage fluid and its gene expression increased in polyp tissue.

Conclusions:

• Elevated SP and IL-37 in nasal polyps suggest their involvement in the disease's development.
• These neurohormonal mediators represent potential novel therapeutic targets for nasal polyposis.