Gene Expression Differences Between Vocal Fold Polyps and Reinke's Edema.

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Molecular Biology
• Genetics

Background:

• Vocal fold polyps and Reinke's edema are benign vocal cord lesions with similar histology but different causes.
• Accurate diagnosis is challenging due to overlapping histological features.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate gene expression differences between Reinke's edema and vocal fold polyps.
• To enhance diagnostic capabilities and understand the pathophysiology of these lesions.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study analyzed intraoperative vocal fold tissue samples.
• RT-qPCR was used to compare mRNA expression of six key genes (COL1A1, COL3A1, FN1, MMP-9, IL-8, IL-1β).
• False Discovery Rate (FDR) correction was applied for multiple comparisons.

Main Results:

• COL1A1, FN1, and MMP-9 were significantly upregulated in vocal fold polyps compared to Reinke's edema (q < 0.01).
• COL3A1, IL-1β, and IL-8 showed non-significant differences after FDR correction.

Conclusions:

• Distinct gene expression profiles in inflammation and extracellular matrix genes differentiate vocal fold polyps from Reinke's edema.
• Findings may facilitate diagnosis and improve understanding of lesion etiology.
• Further validation with larger sample sizes and healthy controls is recommended.