Cinnamaldehyde reduces inflammatory responses in chronic rhinosinusitis by inhibiting TRPM8 expression

Yi Cai1, Mingjian Xie1, Zhoumu Fang1

  • 1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Jinhua People's Hospital Jinhua 321000, Zhejiang, China.

Abstract

Insights

Cinnamaldehyde (CA) reduces inflammation and transient receptor potential melastatin 8 (TRPM8) expression in human nasal cells and mouse models of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). This suggests CA may alleviate CRS symptoms.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Cell Biology
  • Otorhinolaryngology

Background:

  • Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a prevalent inflammatory condition of the nasal passages.
  • Transient receptor potential melastatin 8 (TRPM8) and pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-25, IL-33, TSLP) are implicated in CRS pathogenesis.
  • Cinnamaldehyde (CA) is a natural compound with potential anti-inflammatory properties.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the effect of cinnamaldehyde (CA) on transient receptor potential melastatin 8 (TRPM8) expression in human nasal epithelial cells (HNECs).
  • To evaluate the therapeutic potential of CA in a mouse model of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS).

Main Methods:

  • HNECs were treated with CA, and levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-25, IL-33, TSLP) and TRPM8 were measured.
  • A mouse model of CRS was established using ovalbumin (OVA) induction.
  • Mice were treated with CA, and outcomes including symptom frequency, nasal inflammation, cytokine levels, and TRPM8 expression were assessed.

Main Results:

  • CA treatment significantly reduced pro-inflammatory cytokine and TRPM8 expression in HNECs.
  • CA-treated mice showed reduced sneezing and nose scratching compared to controls.
  • Histological analysis revealed decreased nasal mucosal inflammation and lower pro-inflammatory cytokine and TRPM8 levels in CA-treated mice.

Conclusions:

  • Cinnamaldehyde effectively downregulates TRPM8 expression and pro-inflammatory cytokines in HNECs.
  • CA demonstrates significant therapeutic effects in alleviating CRS symptoms and inflammation in a mouse model.
  • CA holds promise as a potential therapeutic agent for managing chronic rhinosinusitis.