Effects of TNFα on Nasal Inflammation
Author Information
Author(s): Henrik Widegren, Jonas Erjefält, Magnus Korsgren, Morgan Andersson, Lennart Greiff
Primary Institution: Lund University Hospital
Hypothesis
The study aims to examine the effects of intranasal TNFα on granulocyte presence and activity in healthy subjects and patients with allergic rhinitis.
Conclusion
Intranasal TNFα produces a nasal inflammatory response characterized by increased neutrophil activity and plasma exudation 24 hours post challenge.
Supporting Evidence
- Nasal lavage fluid levels of MPO were increased in both healthy subjects and patients with allergic rhinitis 24 hours post TNFα challenge.
- α2-macroglobulin levels were also increased in both groups after TNFα challenge.
- The number of subepithelial neutrophils increased significantly post TNFα challenge in healthy subjects.
Takeaway
When people breathe in a substance called TNFα, it can cause their noses to get inflamed and bring in more white blood cells called neutrophils to help fight inflammation.
Methodology
Healthy subjects and patients with allergic rhinitis received a nasal challenge with TNFα in a sham-controlled, crossover design, with nasal lavages and biopsies performed before and after the challenge.
Limitations
The study was not powered to discriminate between healthy subjects and patients with allergic rhinitis.
Participant Demographics
13 healthy subjects (5 females, 8 males, aged 20–28 years) and 14 patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis (8 females, 6 males, aged 23–45 years).
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.0021
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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