Distinct Nasal Microbiome Profiles and Prediction Model for Allergic Rhinitis, Nonallergic Rhinitis, and Healthy...

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Pediatric Allergy
• Immunology

Background:

• Limited pediatric data exists on nasal microbiota differences in allergic rhinitis (AR) and nonallergic rhinitis (NAR).
• Adult studies suggest distinct nasal microbiomes in AR, NAR, and healthy controls (HC).

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare nasal microbiomes in pediatric AR, NAR, and HC groups.
• To identify factors influencing these microbiomes.
• To develop a predictive model for differentiating these conditions using microbiome data.

Main Methods:

• Collected nasal swab samples from children with AR, NAR, and HC.
• Performed 16S rDNA sequencing for bacterial composition analysis.
• Collected demographic data and influencing factors.

Main Results:

• Significant differences in alpha and beta diversity were found among AR, NAR, and HC groups.
• AR and NAR groups showed lower Pielou's evenness compared to HC.
• Specific taxa like *Escherichia-Shigella*, *Negativicoccus*, *Campylobacter*, and *Dolosigranulum* were differentially abundant, with Enterobacteriaceae depleted in NAR.
• Household pets and breastfeeding duration influenced microbiome diversity.
• A predictive model achieved 0.83 accuracy in differentiating groups based on 14 key taxa.

Conclusions:

• Preliminary differences in nasal microbiome diversity and composition exist among pediatric AR, NAR, and HC.
• Differential microbial abundances may indicate distinct rhinitis phenotypes.
• Findings require validation in larger cohorts.