[Expression and significance of TGF-beta 1 in nasal polyps]

Abstract

Objective: To study the expression and significance of transforming growth factor-beta 1(TGF-beta 1) in nasal polyps.

Method: Expression of TGF-beta 1 in nasal polyps from 34 patients and middle turbinates from 30 patients with deviation of nasal septum were prospectively studied with immunohistochemistry. Each tissue section was observed under optical microscope.

Result: 1. The TGF-beta 1 positivity in extracellular matrix and in cells in the stroma was significantly higher in nasal polyps than in middle turbinates (P < 0.01). 2. The distribution and shape of TGF-beta 1 expressing cells in nasal polyps was similar to that of eosinophil, their positivities were significantly correlative (P < 0.05). 3. The positivity of TGF-beta 1 did not correlate with clinical type of nasal polyps (P > 0.05), eosinophil infiltration correlated significantly with clinical type of nasal polyps(P < 0.05).

Conclusion: 1. The TGF-beta 1 may contribute to some of the pathologic changes observed in nasal polyps, such as thickening of the epithelial basement membrane and stromal fibrosis. 2. Eosinophils in nasal polyps represent a major source of TGF-beta 1. 3. Eosinophils infiltration may play a prominent role in the development and recurrence of nasal polyps.