Morphologic Change of Nasal Epithelium in Animal Model with Nasal Hyperreactivity

Choi, Weon Jo; Jeong, Jin Uk; Jeon, Woo Jin; Rha, Ki Sang; Park, Chan Il

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Nasal hyperreactivity is a cardinal pathophysiological feature in allergic or nonallergic rhinitis. However, the mechanisms underlying nasal hyperreactivity are largely unknown. One of the proposed mechanisms is that epithelial damage may contribute to the development of nasal hyperreactivity. However, it is hard to find studies on this topic.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study is to demonstrate whether the morphological change of nasal epithelium exists in animal model with nasal hyperreactivity or not.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Guinea pigs were sensitized in 10% TDI-ethyl acetate solution for 5 days, after which a recess of 3 weeks were allowed before exposing them in 5% TDI-ethyl acetate solution twice a week for 4 weeks. Thereafter, we observed the morphologic change of nasal mucosa with a light microscope and an electron microscope.
RESULTS
Under the light microscopic observation, there were no morphological changes including epithelial damage in the TDI-provoked group. Under the electron microscopic, however, the widening of the intercellular space, the disruption of the basement membrane and the cytoplasmic vacuolization were observed.
CONCLUSION
Morphological changes of the nasal epithelium were found in the animal model with nasal hyperreactivity under electron microscopic observation. Further studies to verify the relationship between the morphological changes and the nasal hyperreactivity will be needed.