Fibroblast Heterogeneity of Nasal Polyps in Non-Allergic and Allergic Rhinitis

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES: Some components of ground substances are known to be involved in developing nasal polyp. The fibroblasts are a major component of the ground substances in nasal polyp and have many immunologic roles. Heterogeneity of fibroblasts has been observed in other anatomical sites including the nasal mucosa. The aim of this study was to investigate the heterogeneity of fibroblasts of nasal polyps in non-allergic rhinitis and allergic rhinitis. MATERIALS & METHODS: Using the third passage of the fibroblasts taken from polyps of allergic and non-allergic patients, we measured the proliferating potential by comparing the cell growth in the culture system of fibroblasts and calculated the doubling time of the cell growth. We also compared the proliferating potentials between the two groups after stimulation with histamine or IL-4. RESULTS: Morphologic differences were examined by transmission electron microscopy. In the non-stimulated experiment, proliferation of fibroblasts was increased in the non-allergic polyp group (NAPG). When the fibroblasts were stimulated with histamine, the proliferation was not significantly changed on day 6 in both groups. When the fibroblasts were stimulated with IL-4, the proliferation was significantly increased in NAPG. Morphologic differences were demonstrated between the NAPG and the APG. CONCLUSION: The differences in cell proliferation potentials and morphological changes between both groups suggest that there is a heterogeneity of fibroblasts between them.