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Expression of basic fibroblast growth factor in nasal polyps
M R Powers1, Z Qu, P C LaGesse
1Department of Pediatrics, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland 97201, USA.
The Annals of Otology, Rhinology, and Laryngology
|October 30, 1998
Summary
Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) promotes cell proliferation in nasal polyps. Mast cells are identified as a significant source of bFGF in this tissue, suggesting a role in nasal polyp development.
Area of Science:
- Rhinology
- Cell Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) is a potent mitogen for various cell types.
- Nasal polyps are inflammatory growths characterized by epithelial and endothelial proliferation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the expression and localization of bFGF in nasal polyp tissue.
- To determine the cellular source of bFGF within nasal polyps.
Main Methods:
- Northern blot analysis to detect bFGF mRNA.
- Immunohistochemistry and double-labeling with mast cell markers to identify bFGF-expressing cells.
Main Results:
- bFGF mRNA and protein were detected in nasal polyps.
- bFGF localized to blood vessels, basement membranes, basal epithelial cells, and mononuclear cells.
- A significant proportion (65%) of bFGF-positive mononuclear cells were identified as mast cells.
- Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) colocalized with bFGF in proliferating cells.
Conclusions:
- bFGF likely contributes to the proliferation of endothelial and epithelial cells in nasal polyps.
- Mast cells represent a key source of bFGF in nasal polyp tissue, implicating them in the pathogenesis.